Album Review: Irritainment by Guyana Punch Line – A Wild Ride Through Hardcore Chaos
Alright, so let’s talk about Irritainment by Guyana Punch Line. Released in 2001 on Prank Records, this album is like a caffeine-fueled slap to the face if you’re into punk, hardcore, or thrash. It’s raw, relentless, and doesn’t give a damn what you think—which is exactly why it rules.
First off, the lineup: Chris Bickel on vocals screams like he’s trying to wake up the neighbors five blocks away, Kevin Byrd shreds guitar riffs that could cut glass, and Troy Thames pounds the drums harder than your heart after a bad breakup. Together, they make noise that feels both chaotic and intentional—like controlled chaos but with way more attitude.
Now, let me break down two tracks that stuck with me because, honestly, there are too many bangers here to cover all of them.
Track 1: "Old Guy In The Pit"
This one hits different. Imagine some dude who should’ve hung up his studded jacket years ago still moshing like it’s 1985. That’s basically what this song feels like—a mix of mockery and respect for anyone who refuses to grow up. The lyrics are sharp (pun intended), and the energy? Insane. You can practically hear the sweat flying off the band as they rip through this track. Plus, lines like “He’s got gray hair but he don’t care” just stick in your head. Like…damn, props to whoever inspired this diss/ode combo.
Track 2: "Home Fucking Is Killing Prostitution"
Okay, how do you even forget a title like that? This track is pure punk rock sloganeering at its finest. It’s short, snotty, and makes zero apologies for being ridiculous. Musically, it’s fast and loud enough to make your ears ring, but the real kicker is the absurdity of the message. Like, yeah, I guess home fucking is technically killing prostitution? But only if we’re overthinking capitalism while drunk at a house show. Whatever—it doesn’t matter. What matters is that it slaps, and you’ll probably laugh every time you hear it.
Other highlights include “Political P.I.G.” for when you need to scream about corruption, and “Tears On The Backpack,” which sounds like emo kids getting dunked on but in the best possible way. And seriously, where IS the fucking lyric sheet? Someone answer that question already!
At the end of the day, Irritainment isn’t gonna win any Grammys (not that those clowns know anything anyway). But it doesn’t need to. This album exists to piss people off, pump them up, and remind us all that music doesn’t have to be polished to be powerful. It’s messy, aggressive, and unapologetically itself—and honestly? That’s kinda beautiful.
Final thought: If you listen to this album and don’t feel like punching something—or starting a riot—you might wanna check your pulse. Or maybe turn the volume up. Either way, Guyana Punch Line delivers the goods, and then some.
