by JM Lane

Created on: February 11, 2007   Last Updated: May 09, 2007

In 2002 the Bouncing Souls and Anti-Flag released a shared album on BYO Records. These two bands that I would say although both punk, are both unique in there own different ways. The split series concept is a great idea though. For starters with less tracks to record there is a better consistency and (on this album anyway) no tracks that I would describe as 'filler'.

There is no general 'rule' on split series albums, however on this one they both cover each other's song once.

There are twelve tracks on the album, with each band having six apiece. Total album time 33 minutes 34 seconds. Bouncing Souls have around 16 minutes, Anti-Flag around 17 minutes.

The Bouncing Souls are:
Greg Attonito: Vocals
'The Pete' Steinkopf: Guitar
Bryan 'Papillion' Kienlen: Bass
Michael McDermott: Drums

Anti Flag are:
Chris Head: Guitar/Vocals
#2 Chris: Bass/Vocals
Justin Sane: Guitar/Vocals
Pat Thetic: Drums

It starts off with the Bouncing Souls, opening up with the tune 'Punks in Vegas', an upbeat song with great sing-along uplifting lyrics, as soon as it opens up with the instrumental it makes you feel good. "Maybe not the best place in the world, something always brings me back." Great little reminder for anyone who's been to Las Vegas on holiday to bring back the good or bad memories of the place.

'No Security' follows which at first I thought was the Anti-Flag cover, however this is a Bouncing Souls tune. The song rips through and at 1.21 is the shortest on the album, with clattering drums and a shouty chorus off "No Security, No Security, No Security for you".

'That's Youth' (Anti-Flag album cover from the album A New Kind of Army) surprised that this is an Anti-Flag song as I thought they only went on about the U.S Government, however you can tell at the start it's Anti-Flag as it has the Anti-Flag 'sound' which can easily be spotted on the opening guitar. However the Bouncing Souls add they own trademark sound, giving you a great sing along tune, which when listening to the Anti-Flag original wasn't really achieved. Great, great lyrics about being a young punk fan.

Bryan's Lament is up next sung by Bryan, who makes a good singer. Good old love punk song here, with a lot of focus on the bass. Great melody on the chorus with Greg providing backing. A real sweet song about longing for someone.

Next up, personally I feel is the best track on the whole album 'We're Coming Back' (Cock Sparrer cover) which whenever this track comes on, it's a guarantee that the volume is due to be cranked up.

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