Lost Punk Gems: 4 Albums Screaming for a Reissue
Punk rock thrives on rebellion, but some of its sharpest albums faded into obscurity. While legends like Nevermind the Bollocks dominate playlists, these four forgotten records deserve a revival—along with props to the reissues that got it right.
1. The Vibrators – Pure Mania (1977)
Why It Needs a Reissue:
A UK punk cornerstone, Pure Mania bursts with anthems like “Baby Baby” and “Whips & Furs,” yet never reached iconic status. A remastered edition with unreleased demos or a live bonus disc could reignite its fire.
Punk Fact: Recorded in just four days—pure DIY chaos.
2. X-Ray Spex – Germfree Adolescents (1978)
Why It Needs a Reissue:
Poly Styrene’s razor-sharp vocals and sax-punk brilliance make this album timeless. A deluxe reissue with studio outtakes or 1978 live tracks would be a collector’s dream.
Good News: A 2015 vinyl reissue teased fans—but a full box set is still missing.
3. The Adverts – Crossing the Red Sea (1978)
Why It Needs a Reissue:
Snarling riffs meet sly social commentary on this underrated gem. Tracks like “Gary Gilmore’s Eyes” demand a remastered edition with BBC session tapes or band retrospectives.
Did You Know? The Adverts were punk outliers from Devon, not London.
4. The Avengers – The Avengers (1983, recorded 1979)
Why It Needs a Reissue:
Penelope Houston’s ferocious vocals fuel this San Francisco punk masterpiece. A proper reissue with restored audio and unseen live photos could finally cement its legacy.
Bonus: A 2012 reissue added rare tracks—but deeper archives await.
Punk Reissues Done Right
Some albums did get their second wind. Celebrate these standout re-releases:
- Dead Kennedys – Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables (2014)
Remastered audio + a live bonus disc—political punk that still stings. - The Slits – Cut (2016)
A post-punk/reggae landmark expanded with unreleased tracks. - Bad Brains – Bad Brains (2020)
The ROIR tape classic, now on vinyl with new liner notes.
Why Reissues Matter
Punk isn’t just nostalgia—it’s preservation. Reissues rescue revolutionary music from the dustbin of history. Which forgotten punk album deserves a comeback? Sound off below!
\m/ Keep it loud. Keep it punk. \m/
