Shrouded by a cloak of secrecy which includes the band's members supposedly not even knowing each others true identity, rumours abound regarding the exact lineup of this modern day punk phenomenon. They refuse to play live - accusing established artists as taking part in some kind of retro circus - shunning anywhere that enforces the smoking ban. Combined with an abject rejection of the mainstream music industry corporate giants, Shitswarm's determination to plough their own road has created a buzz around this outspoken bunch of Geordies not seen since the Sex Pistols infamously profanic TV interview.

'Anti-Thology' contains five deliberately raw sounding yet cleverly constructed songs, all of which follow the classic punk ethos of simple yet instantly infectious hook lines which bury themselves under your skin from the very first listen. Once you load this into your cd player be prepared to press the repeat button at least twice.

From 911 conspiracy theories and the global carbon footprint, to genetic engineering and UFO's, via Blair/Brown new labour spin-doctorism and the erosion of civil liberties - Shitswarm are unafraid to tackle controversial issues head on.

With an anarchic approach and ascerbic wit very much nurtured by their regional identity, what may on first listen be mistaken as a bunch of comedy songs, 'Anti-Thology' quickly gets the message hammered home with all the impact of a nailbomb.

Throw in artwork that reflects their take on the oppressive nature of modern society and a refreshingly old school punk ethos apparently at the heart of the band's motivation, if any new release was going to spark a return to the days of 1977 - according to Shitswarm, the last year that mattered - then this is it.

Check out their myspace page at : www.myspace.com/shitswarm

ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL .


MOO! pmsbull



CURRENT LINEUP :

GOBSHITE - vocals
BIGHEED - guitar
PSYCHO - bass
THICKIE - drums