Billie Joe Armstrong’s son’s band, Emily’s Army, is releasing their Billie Joe Armstrong produced debut album today on Billy Joe’s indie label Adeline Records. Little Joey Armstrong was born just one year after Green Day’s commercial breakthrough album Dookie, and instead of fronting a band like his famous father, he is holding down the back-beat on drums.
Emily’s Army list their influences as The Clash, Cheap Trick, Rancid, and The Who, so there’s no doubt that Mr. Armstrong has raised his boy in a household of great music. The new LP is called Don’t Be A Dick, and while there’s nothing groundbreaking or terribly original here, it’s a nice mix of classic pop punk with a bit of East Bay garage rock thrown in. It’s clearly written by teenagers, for teenagers so don’t expect any intellectually stimulating lyrics or cutting edge riffs. Instead of basing your expectations on his musically infused DNA, just take it for what it is; a surprising solid, fun teenage angst driven pop punk record that should keep these kids busy doing something constructive over the Summer break. The vinyl being released on banana yellow wax is a nice touch as well.
Emily’s Army by Adeline Records
The name “Emily’s Army” is attributed to band members Max Becker and Cole Becker’s 15-year-old cousin Emily who was diagnosed in 1998 with Cystic Fibrosis. You can find out more about her and how you can help find a cure at www.EmilysArmy.com.
