Album Review: Never Trusted You by Los Nuggets
Los Nuggets’ Never Trusted You is a raw, unfiltered ride through punk rock chaos. Released under Corduroy Records, this album doesn’t waste time trying to sound polished or perfect—which is exactly why it works. With Jimmy Garcia leading on vocals and adding layers of tambourine, maracas, and even harp (yes, harp), the band crafts something that feels both chaotic and intentional. Backed by Chuso Gonzalez’s gritty basslines and Richie Rodriguez’s razor-sharp guitar riffs, this record hits hard where it counts.
The title track, “Never Trusted You,” sets the tone right out of the gate. It’s fast, loud, and dripping with attitude. Jimmy’s snarling delivery pairs perfectly with Javi Tamelloso’s pounding drums, creating an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt betrayed—or just really pissed off. The song sticks in your head not because it’s catchy in the traditional sense but because its energy is infectious. You can almost picture the mosh pit forming as soon as the first chord strikes.
Another standout is “Dino’s Call.” This one slows things down just enough to let the lyrics breathe while still keeping that rebellious edge. There’s something about the way Jimmy switches between lead vocals and his quirky instrumental additions that makes this track memorable. Is it weird? Absolutely. But weird works here. By the end, you’re left wondering if Dino is a person, a dinosaur, or some kind of existential metaphor—and honestly, that mystery keeps you coming back for more.
Produced by the band themselves and recorded by Gerardo Calvo, Never Trusted You has a DIY ethos that screams authenticity. Sure, there are moments where the production feels rough around the edges, but that’s part of its charm. Punk isn’t supposed to be shiny—it’s supposed to make you feel something, whether it’s anger, nostalgia, or sheer confusion.
In the end, what makes Never Trusted You so compelling is how unapologetically itself it is. Listening to it feels like hanging out with old friends who don’t care what anyone thinks—they’re just here to have fun and cause a little trouble. And hey, isn’t that what rock ‘n’ roll should be all about?
Now, go listen to it—but maybe not at work. Your coworkers probably won’t appreciate the tambourine solos as much as you will.
