Attila the Stockbroker's Barnstormer/Bomb Factory - Baghdad Ska/Night Bus

This double a-side from Cambridge's R*E*P*E*A*T Records and Love Music, Hate Racism is more about the message than the music. Veteran punk-poet Attila's rude boy lament for the people of Baghdad is a poignant reminder why Iraqis aren't just smiling and saying "thank you America". Bomb Factory's rant is a little closer to home, taking a sidelong sneer at London's late-night idiot chariot and the ghastly contents there in. As thoughtful and thought provoking as it is noisy, this is a fine example of what punk used to be all about before it got stolen by skaters. Both bands play the Portland Arms, Mitcham's Corner, Cambridge to launch the single on Thursday, April 15.

Chris Marling, Cambridge Evening News