Indestructible, a fitting name for an album put out by a band that has 13 years under their belt; who consistently puts out good albums containing an average of 20 songs per release! From the break-up of Operation Ivy 15 years ago (singer/guitarist: Tim Armstrong, and bassist: Matt Freeman’s first huge success), to the newest Rancid addition, Lars Frederiksen on guitar (formerly of The UK Subs), Rancid has entertained both young and old, male and female, the world over!

Frontman, Tim Armstrong, delivers with his unique, mystical vocal style, with lyrics of encouragement (despite his recent break-up with front-girl, Brody, of The Distillers) and his feel-good, sometimes “skankin'” guitar rythyms. Rancid has somehow managed to stay punk over the years, yet adopting “world music” styles as their own; which is most prevalent in their 1998 release, Life Won’t Wait.

This album creates a powerful intro with the title song, “Indestructible”. With emotionally charged guitar and Armstrong’s “take no prisoner” vocal style, their messages get across, which is, “through music, you can live forever.” Perhaps this idea is the reason why Armstrong has been so successful in the music industry, from Op Ivy, to Rancid, to last year’s release of The Transplants.

"Red Hot Moon", 3rd track on this release, and my personal favorite, is a classic “punky- reggae” tune. The psychedelic organ, ska rythyms, and skankin’ rap verse (provided by Skinhead Rob), are enough to keep anybody moving.

Musically, the entire album is a definite sign that Rancid is, not only here to stay, but are still expanding musically, perfecting their talent. With songs on the tracklist like "Django", a kind of fast-paced 'rock-a-billy' or 'psycho-billy' sound or "Arrested In Shanghai" which has the same feel as one of The Clash’s (to whom Armstrong pays tribute to in last winter’s issue of “Guitar Legends”) slower political songs, expressing the need for awareness of the government by the people, Rancid shows just how viable they are for this time. We can be anxious for what comes next.

Overall, Indestructible is classic Rancid. This is an album that any fan should own. It's also a reinvigorating breath of fresh air after their mediocre self-titled release in 2000.

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Indestructible
Fall Back Down
Red Hot Moon
David Courtney
Start Now
Out of Control
Django
Arrested in Shanghai
Travis Bickle
Memphis
Spirit of '87
Ghost Band
Tropical London
Roadblock
Born Frustrated
Back Up Against the Wall
Ivory Coast
Stand Your Ground
Otherside