One of Australia’s most easily recognized Punk bands, The Living End has over 30 years of history. Recalled for their energetic live performances and a sound that blends Punk and Rockabilly, their 1998 self-titled debut album was a massive success, reaching No. 1 on the ARIA Albums Chart and remaining in the top 50 for 63 weeks. From here, the band would go on to have one chart-topping ARIA Album after another, with many peaking at number one, or in the Top 10, including 2000’s Roll On, 2003’s Modern Artillery, and 2006’s State of Emergency.
Also winning numerous ARIA awards, The Living End has been a very busy band over the past few decades. With that in mind, a much-needed break from recording (to reflect and stay true to their artistic ideals) was taken after the release of Wunderbar. Now, over eight years later, The Living End broke the radio silence on September 25, 2025, releasing their long-awaited ninth album, I Only Trust Rock n Roll.
Bringing it back to the basics of Rock-n-Roll, The Living End sought to concentrate on the songs rather than an over-produced record. With that in mind, the long-time lineup of Vocalist/Guitarist Chris Cheney, Bassist Scott Owen, and Drummer Andy Strachan teamed up with well-known Rock Producer Kevin Shirley to create a very no frills and electrifying Rock-n-Roll record.
It comes with eleven songs totaling a little over thirty-six minutes, kicking off with the catchy, thrilling “Alfie.” This, before “Roller” continues strong with Rockabilly vibes that make it even harder to sit still while listening. Next, the rhythmic nature of “Strange Place” comes with thoughtful lyrics that have the power to capture your attention, while “Private Hell” brings along a chorus that is bound to stick in your head. All featuring driving and pushing arrangements, other cuts like “Rain the Parade” come at you with rhythm changes, adding pauses and interruptions to the otherwise straightforward music.
From here, “Don’t Tell Me” brings back the catchy and thriving vibes that push the record forward. In the meantime, “Misery” speeds it up even more while the distorted guitars add a hint of Sleaze Rock to the mix. Then, a bit unique to the rest of the album, “Public Holiday” sounds much more serious, with words that will get you thinking. Adding some chaos to the collection, “Camera” is perfect for a mosh pit, “Gypsy Blood” is very memorable, and it all comes to a close with the lyrically potent title track.
In the end, The Living End succeeded in capturing a raw energy with I Only Trust Rock n Roll. The more or less political lyrics of each song make it easy to relate to, while the music itself stands out on its own as well. Over three decades of writing music, touring, and writing music again and again can be a grinding process. Clearly, the time away from recording was just what The Living End needed, because they are as powerful and energetic as ever. That is why Cryptic Rock gives I Only Trust Rock n Roll 4 out of 5 stars.
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