Quite the super trio here, featuring alumni of The Mahones, U.K. Subs, and Hüsker Dü. The latter is represented by Greg Norton, a man I saw many times plucking his four strings for that famed outfit. My introduction to Ultrabomb had been the track “Star” and I have to admit it did very little for me in isolation. It sounded quite… well… forgettable, really. So I approached Time to Burn with a fair amount of trepidation. The title track was first up and there was an undoubtedly Hüsker Dü sound to it from all components. It allayed many of my fears, which, as the album progressed, dissipated into thin air. That sound never really left the album, although when it did ease its way down other avenues it was quick to return to that more familiar quality. Even the aforementioned “Star” came to life and, in context of the album as a whole, worked its way into my head. I have to say, if you’re fan of the Minneapolis trio of old, then this could well be an essential purchase. If I were to be picky, I’d say that we’ve had enough covers of “Sonic Reducer” for a lifetime, so Time to Burn doesn’t benefit from its inclusion here. That’s a small gripe though. I heard recently that they’re playing in deepest darkest Cornwall in July, a mere ninety minutes away, so I’ll be venturing down to see them. This record was an unexpected delight. –Rich Cocksedge (Ultrabomb, ultrabomb.deco.ink)