Naked Raygun
Understand?

I am not the most qualified person to speak about Naked Raygun and perhaps not even about punk rock in the broadest sense. However, I will try my best like a good student and describe how the fourth chapter from this Chicago band led by the good Jeff Pezzati sounds.

Fresh off the acclaim from the previous and immense "Jettison" (absolutely listen to it if you haven't done so already), what could our heroes still say of interest? Apparently, a lot!

"Understand" was released by Caroline in 1989 and remains to this day one of the best examples of melodic hardcore just a step away from emo.

The album is excellently played and is full of breathtaking anthems that, from time to time, even wink at metal soundscapes.

The dance opens with "Treason," a track that immediately imprints itself in your mind.

We continue with "Hip Swingin'", ramshackle and slightly over-the-top. The bass work is excellent.

The title track is wild and brazen. A little over two minutes that in no way can leave the listener indifferent.

To conclude, I would like to highlight songs like "Wonder Beer," the very brief "Too Much Of You," and the angry "The Sniper Song."

A work that knows no slips and certainly represents hardcore at its best. Unfortunately, Naked will always remain in the underground and, sad but true, will never achieve the success they deserve. But trust me, the guys from Chicago, like the masters Husker Du, have managed to influence the punk, alternative, and even grunge scenes. Their name is synonymous with sweat, passion, and dedication.

I don't give it five stars, even though they deserve it, because the group's true masterpiece, as already mentioned, is called "Jettison." For the rest, you can be sure! Absolutely sure!