Zatopeks/Accelerators - split

U.K. kids looking to learn their punk rock A-Z without actually listening to influential bands can check out the Accelerators/ Zatopeks split out on Squinty Joe Records. With two songs from each band, the seven-inch is reliably predictable.

The Neatherlands’ Accelerators sound like any ’90s pop punk band ever. NOFX, Descendents, The Queers, and Pulley are all good reference points. Listeners who own any records released by Epitaph or Fat Wreck Chords pre-2000 will be instantly familiar with the band. The group’s songs, “I Don’t Want to Know” and “Got Kicked in the Front of My Head,” are catchy and rocking enough, although the latter tune uses its chorus a wee bit too liberally.

Zatopeks, of England and Germany, have more of a Buzzcocks vibe, as “Scum on the River” and “Amy Tonight” carry a layer of anxious yearning and energy. Frontman Will DeNiro doesn’t quite carry the same snotty sneer as Accerators’ vocalist Ox Accelerator. “Scum on the River” in particular is a pub-ready rabble rouser, however directionless and rambling it gets near the end.

It’s hard to pick a winner here. Accelerators write better hooks, but Zatopeks rock the fun gang vox angle.

Let’s just call it a split decision. *bum dum bum pish!*