Reviewed by Alex Figgis

Having been hugely disappointed by T.I.N.', The Rockers' '98 debut, I was not looking forward to investigating their second release. Now I have to ask myself if this is the same band? After much touring and evidently more care in terms of writing and production, the Rockers have come up with a truly stunning slab of pop punk to rival the likes of MxPx, Dogwood and Slick Shoes. Packed full of progressively-structured, tightly-delivered passages of compelling modern punk music, 'Madison Road' realises a high level of all round musical maturity. Highlights include the eclectic "Better Off"; the pop-laden, bass-driven "Aqua Blue", complete with off beat time changes; and the sheer skill with which the Rockers deliver "The Exorcist", a speed rock number concerned with finding truth. A fine example of its genre.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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