Single Review: Hi-Fi Spitfires – Doors To The USA EP

It’s been three long years since the Hi-Fi Spitfires released their impressive sophomore album, Nightraid, and now they’re back with the latest release, the five track EP Doors To The USA. Hi-Fi Spitfires are an example of the commitment bands show to punk rock with Stephen Straughan also recording and touring with punk stalwarts UK Subs and the other two members, Tony Taylor and Nelly, both active with their own outfits, First Wave and Garden Gang respectively, it’s clear that the Hi-Fi Spitfires are a band that don’t just talk the talk.

The EP’s title track is straight up punk rock that evokes the spirit of The Clash in their prime, this is followed by a classic old school punk rallying cry in the form of Fake City. Followers of the UK’s grass roots punk scene may get a sense of deja vu as the third track, Berlin, also appeared on First Wave‘s latest release, but as this was one of the highlight’s from their recent Toxic Rock ‘N Roll album I’m not complaining that it’s been given the Hi-Fi Spitfires treatment. Don’t Take My Heart returns to the classic punk rock feel that Hi-Fi Spitfires are best known for, but for me they saved the best for last, closing track Last Gang is a perfect moment of punk rock that makes you wish you could flip Doors To The USA over for another five tracks.

Doors To The USA is pure grass roots punk rock at it’s very best, the Hi-F Spitfires have always carried the spirit of punk’s past glories, but they bring them bang up to date and for me Doors To The USA is their finest release to date. The EP’s official launch party will be at the The Doll at the Black Bull in Gateshead, UK on the 30th December, with support from Loaded 44 and Pitbull. The Hi-Fi Spitfires will also be reissuing their first album, England Screaming, as a numbered limited edition of just 300 on red vinyl next month. Doors To The USA and the previous releases, including the upcoming limited vinyl pressing of England Screaming, can be purchased at their shows or by contacting the band.

Hi-Fi Spitfires Facebook page is here and their website is here