Album Review: Pub Punx United by Nogoodnix
Released in 2001 on Stupid Cupid Records, Pub Punx United by Nogoodnix is a rollicking blend of Celtic punk and folk rock that feels like a raucous pub session with a dash of rebellion. Hailing from the US, this band takes listeners on a journey through raw emotions, storytelling, and foot-stomping energy. With genres spanning Folk, World, Country, and Rock—and styles rooted in Celtic and Punk traditions—this album isn't just music; it’s an experience.
One standout track is "Better Days / May Sorrow Be A Stranger." It kicks things off with a spirited mix of fiddle-driven melodies and gritty vocals that set the tone for what’s to come. The dual themes of hope and resilience resonate deeply, as if the band is reminding us all to hang tough no matter how rough life gets. You can almost picture a crowded bar full of people raising pints while belting out the chorus together. This one sticks because it's got heart—something sorely missing in a lot of modern music.
Another memorable tune is "Whiskey On A Sunday." If you're not tapping your feet or nodding along to this one, check your pulse. It’s catchy as hell, blending upbeat instrumentation with lyrics about drinking and camaraderie. It’s the kind of song that makes you wanna grab a glass (or three) and sing at the top of your lungs. Tracks like these remind me why live music matters—they’re made to be shared, shouted, and celebrated.
The rest of the album holds its own too. Songs like "I Won’t Pay For Liberty" bring political edge, while "Lilly The Pink" offers a quirky yet oddly relatable vibe. Even slower numbers like "Angelina" tug at the heartstrings without feeling overly sappy. Each track brings something different but stays true to the scrappy, DIY ethos of punk fused with the soulful warmth of folk.
What strikes me most about Pub Punx United is how unapologetically human it feels. There are moments where the production could’ve been cleaner, sure, but that rough-around-the-edges quality gives it charm. In a world obsessed with perfection, Nogoodnix reminds us that sometimes imperfection hits harder.
In the end, listening to this album feels like finding an old vinyl record in a dusty thrift shop—you don’t expect much, but once you give it a spin, you realize it’s pure gold. Oddly enough, it also made me crave fish and chips. Go figure.
