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Written by David Lichius Friday, 12 September 2008 03:42

All Systems Go 3 has its flaws, but more than suffices as an addition to Rocket From the Crypt's ever-expanding catalog.

As a tool of persuasion, this review is all but worthless. Sorry, I really should rephrase that. This review is all but worthless to most Rocket From the Crypt fans. I am willing to bet a hill of beans that they probably already own this disc. You see, RFTC fans are a different breed; one might say that they are a bit obsessive. Obsessive to the point of getting tattoos of Rocket's logo in order to gain free access to their shows for life. Inevitably, RFTC shut down their tattoo coupon and their fireball brand of rock for good after a blow-out gig Halloween night in 2005.

Nary three years after the band lowered their corpse into the ground, 2008 is proving to be generous for new RFTC releases. Fresh off the release of R.I.P in February, a CD/DVD combo documenting their final show comes the third edition of Rocket's odds-and-ends collection, All Systems Go 3.

Covering material from 1997 to 2000, ASG3 collects compilation tracks, alternate takes and other unreleased material. As guitarist/vocalist and head showman John "Speedo" Reis writes in the liner notes, the disc captures how RFTC developed as a band during those three years.

As to be expected with a collection of orphans and castaways, the results are a mixed bag. Regardless, ASG3 is undoubtedly 20 tracks of some serious punk-influenced (along with other genres) rock 'n' roll. Top marks go out to "Total Bummer," an inspired rendition of "Chariots on Fire" (which would later appear re-recorded on their 2001 Group Sounds LP), an instrumental version of "Tiger Mask," an alternate version of "When in Rome," the ultra rarity "Dynamite," and the Wall of Voodoo cover "This Way Out."

All Systems Go 3 has its flaws, but more than suffices as an addition to Rocket From the Crypt's ever-expanding catalog. Oh, did I mention that Vagrant Records has already tossed out a teaser for more RFTC? Yes sir, coming soon to record store near you is All Systems Go 4. I would have name-dropped a cheesy movie sequel right there, but I just remembered that my address is listed in the phone book. B+ | David Lichius

RIYL: The Bronx, Cougars, Bald Eagle