Post-hardcore supergroup Fake Names has released their second album on Epitaph Records. The band features Brian Baker (of Minor Threat, Bad Religion, Dag Nasty), Michael Hampton (of S.O.A. and Embrace), Dennis Lyxzén (of Refused and The [International] Noise Conspiracy), Johnny Temple (of Girls Against Boys and Soulside) and newest addition Brendan Canty (of Fugazi and Rites of Spring). The band formed in 2016 and released their self-titled debut album in 2020.
What Worked
Short and to the point, this supergroup covers a wide swath of punk, post-punk, hardcore, post-hardcore and more seamlessly from track to track. From the catchy handclap energy of "Go" to the fist-pumping "Don't Blame Yourself," which features a double-guitar lead ala Thin Lizzy, the band takes familiar templates and utilizes the skill of their many contributors to twist and turn the final results into exhilarating two and three minute barn burners. Although made by a bunch of scene vets, the record sounds contemporary and not stuck in a nostalgic past.
What Didn't Work
Under thirty minutes is a perfect length for a quick shot of energy, but some might feel like a few more tracks wouldn't hurt.
Fake Names - Expendables