Seven 7”s With Joel

Another installment of Seven 7”’s with Joel . Here are 7 bangers from my personal collection that bring me joy

X Ray Spex “Identity” (1978)

What can I say? One of the best songs of the 70s punk scene. Off one of the most iconic records ever made. Poly Styrene is one of the most badass women to ever pick up a microphone. “Identity” still sounds urgent and completely unhinged in the best way possible.

Less Than Jake “All My Best Friends Are Metalheads” (1998)

Dare I say this belongs in the top five ska punk tracks ever recorded. This UK 7” pressing also features two live tracks from 1999 that I do not believe are available anywhere else. A must for Less Than Jake fans.

Toadies / Slowpoke Split 7” (1995)

Toadies deliver a killer Talking Heads cover here. This record was also my first introduction to Slowpoke, a great Texas alternative band with a modest but worthwhile discography. A split that punches above its weight.

Good Clean Fun “Shopping For A Crew” (1998)

Intentionally the goofiest hardcore band around. This track is a hilarious riff on overly serious militant hardcore kids. Sharp, self aware, and still rips.

Alkaline Trio “Time To Waste” (2005)

The opening track from the album Crimson. At the time, this single was the only place you could get the two additional non album tracks. They were later released on the compilation Remains, but this pressing was the original source.

Helmet “In The Meantime” (1992)

Some of Helmet’s absolute best. This single also included “No Nicky No,” which later appeared on the compilation Born Annoying in 1995. Crushing riffs. Zero subtlety.

The Goons / The Boils Split 7” (1996)

The Boils are great, but this split is all about The Goons for me. It contains tracks from their record Living In America, which never received a proper vinyl pressing. For collectors, that detail alone makes this one special.