True North

Bad Religion has won the war of attrition. Not many punk bands that began making records in the early '80s are still around and capable of putting out albums that maintain and even better their reputation. But then, few punk bands sport a three-guitar team like Brett Gurewitz, Greg Hetson (Circle Jerks), and Brian Baker (Minor Threat). These players were all-star caliber when they entered the scene, and the years have only improved their attacks. The band's abrasive edge is kept in check, while its abilities with a great tune have never been stronger, whether in the speedy race of "In Their Hearts Is Right" or the tortoise-paced "Hello Cruel World," where vocal harmonies bring out the song's richness. "Vanity," "Land of Endless Greed," "The Island," and "My Head Is Full of Ghosts" stay true to the band's hardcore roots, but with stronger album production values. "F**k You" shows that Bad Religion hasn't lost its attitude, and "Robin Hood in Reverse" remains true to the band's poor-boy roots and its sense of social consciousness and justice. Longer may Bad Religion run.