Social Distortion

Born to Kill

(Epitaph)

Led by singer/guitarist Mike Ness, Social Distortion was a vital part of the OC punk scene during the ‘80s and saw commercial success in the ‘90s via such modern rock radio hits as “Ball & Chain,” “Bad Luck,” “Cold Feelings,” “Let it Be Me” and “I Was Wrong.” 

Now, Social D is back with a vengeance on Born to Kill, its first studio album in 15 years. The creative fire still burns deep for Ness, who recently battled cancer. He co-produced this one with Dave Sardy (Oasis, Bush) and the powerful songs contain various hallmarks that made Social D the pride of Fullerton: pile-driving guitars and lyrics reflecting a battle-scarred survivor’s experience. 

Lucinda Williams duets with Ness on terrific old school country-tinged bar room tune “Crazy Dreamer”; the winsome roots rock-leaning “Tonight” sports a subtle Johnny Cash vibe, and “Partners in Crime” boasts psychedelic guitar bits and name checks David Bowie (Ness also pays subtle tribute to other idols like Lou Reed and Iggy & the Stooges on the fiery title track). Elsewhere, the band surprises with an edgy, compelling cover of Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” (Ness’ falsetto is impressive), and Benmont Tench (Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers) adds welcome piano work here and there. Information: epitaph.com

Red Rockers

It’s in Our Blood

Romeo Void

Live ’81-‘85

(Liberation Hall)

Alt-rock bands Red Rockers and Romeo Void both formed in 1979 and released debut albums with like-minded titles (Condition Red; It’s a Condition) two years later on seminal San Francisco indie label 415 Records that were overseen by producer David Kahne. New Orleans’ Red Rockers, fronted by singer/guitarist John Thomas Griffith, found inspiration in The Clash’s punk ethos. Northern California’s Romeo Void and no-holds-barred vocalist Debora Iyall (a Patti Smith acolyte), leaned more toward new wave with jazz touches.

It’s in Our Blood documents a powerful ’23 hometown reunion show, where Red Rockers sound raucous as ever while playing the entire album plus Who and Clash covers. Live ’81-‘85 comprises engaging performances over that span from America and the UK/Europe. Standouts include the college/modern rock radio/dance club hits “Never Say Never” and “A Girl in Trouble (Is a Temporary Thing),” where Iyall’s sassiness and Benjamin Bossi’s wild sax work show why they were in a league all their own during the ‘80s. Each live title is available on LP, CD, digital; additionally, Red Rockers have a Blu-ray with two bonus tracks including its pop hit “China.” Romeo Void’s liner notes include lyrics and rare photos, while Red Rockers’ contain an essay. Information: liberationhall.com