Cock Sparrer started in 1972, even before famous bands like The Clash, the Sex Pistols, and The Damned. They were even active before The Ramones in the U.S. Over the last fifty (!) years, they made many great albums which we now consider classics within the punk rock scene. Cock Sparrer’s latest release, Hand On Heart, is besides a brand new album also probably the final album of the band. But let’s be honest, if you’ve been around for more than 50 years, isn’t it completely justified to end a career that most artists can dream of in this way?
Right from the opening track, With My Hand On My Heart, the album grabs your attention and refuses to let go. It’s a rollicking ride through the band’s unmistakable sound, with tracks like Mind Your Own Business and Rags To Riches delivering punchy riffs and infectious energy that’s impossible to resist.
But it’s not all about fast-paced anthems; Cock Sparrer also showcases their softer side with tracks like I Belong To You and Nowhere To Be Found, which are filled with raw emotion and heartfelt lyrics. This balance of power and vulnerability is what sets Cock Sparrer apart, and it’s on full display throughout Hand On Heart.
Songs like No Way Out and Take It On The Chin keep the adrenaline pumping with their driving rhythms and catchy hooks, while One Way Ticket and My Forgotten Dream offer moments of reflection and introspection. Each track is a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess and ability to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level.
As the album draws to a close with Here We Stand, it’s clear that Cock Sparrer has delivered something truly special with Hand On Heart. It’s a record that not only pays homage to their roots in punk rock but also pushes the boundaries of what the genre can achieve. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band, Hand On Heart is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates honest, authentic music that speaks to the soul.
But the best thing is that this album, and every album by this iconic band, makes you part of a close group of friends who are truly passionate about what they’re doing. As mentioned, this is probably the very last album of a huge career, and let’s be honest: Cock Sparrer has left a huge mark on punk rock and the alternative music scene as a whole, and that is something that the oldsters of Cock Sparrer are extremely proud of. may be. We’re going to miss you gentlemen!
Releasedate: April 2024 | Label: Captain Oi!/Randale/Pirate Press | Instagram
Tracklist:
01. With My Hand On My Heart
02. Mind Your Own Business
03. I Belong To You
04. Rags To Riches
05. No Way Out
06. Take It On The Chin
07. One Way Ticket
08. Nowhere To Be Found
09. My Forgotten Dream
10. Here We Stand