Equal Pride Equality - Diversity - Community Vol. III Issue 6 Spring 2002

StoneWall Society GLBT Artists CD Review Nick Name

"Nick Name" Nick Name Review by: Len      If we were to create a new phrase meaning, "in your face", it would be Nick Name. The music of this out there group is well defined by Name himself as; "Hard rock with punk edge." Don't be waylaid by the definition, there are surprises in store. Good ones at that.      Early in my experiences with Nick Name I was very impressed with his style, approach and honesty. That impression survives and is strengthened by his music, video, and MTV "Flipped" interview. All available on the group's website.  Nick Name combined with musical partner Ben Morris (Stripes), create strong visual and audio images.

     Nick refers to himself as "queer punk" as he does not, "relate to gay mainstream" in the MTV "Flipped" interview. The music however does relate. The style may be hard, but so are the issues addressed. Ten tracks dealing with personal angst and social anger delivered with frank lyrics and rockin' musical talent complete the CD. Known as a punk band the roots are obviously rock, hard, straight forward, reeling rock. Nick Name has a clear, strong, well controlled voice, and uses it wisely to emphasize and empower the lyrics. 

     With song titles like; "I F**ked Your Boyfriend", "Who's Your Daddy" - also a video, "Brainwashed", and "(Let's All) Go To Hell" you know there is something different here. Nick's personal dealing with his sexuality is as blunt forward as the lyrics in the songs. I must admit that I previously did not count myself in the throngs of punk fans. However, first Scott Free and now Nick Name have definitely altered that view. I thank them both profusely for opening these formerly limited eyes and ears!

     All ten tracks on the "Nick Name" CD are strong and eye opening. Great hooks, strong lyrics, excellent accompaniment, and the larger than life Nick Name himself insure no wimpy stuff here. Not for the faint hearted, or closet dwellers, but I would say a well needed kick in the pants wake up is to be expected. It is difficult to pick a favorite here as each track has unique strength and specific enjoyment factors. That Nick Name is a literal vision in his own right, this group will send you into sensory overload. And that's a good thing. The strong lyrics grab your attention, however the talented group have no problem keeping you focused. Make no mistake, there is a strong sense of humor at work here as well. Think Lenny Bruce, Frank Zappa, or Lou Reed with a "Queer Punk" attitude, you're on the right track. Nick's mischievous grin leaves this reviewer wondering....Maybe what he is really saying is there is no "mainstream Gay" reality at all. Wouldn't that be refreshing? All unique, all diverse, nah....could it be?........

     Check out the Video of "Who's Your Daddy", the MTV "Flipped" interview and your personal dose of up front reality, at the Nick Name Website! Get your CD copies there as well. You will be glad you did.

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