Panic Squad

  • Panic Squad
  • Panic Squad EP (Whirled) 1980 

The New York-based Panic Squad (which boasted a genuine Englishman in its lineup) delivers mature — if lyrically understated material with hard-edged assurance on its lone vinylization. Not unlike the Clash circa “Tommy Gun” (but with poppier hooks demanding a shade less firepower), the Squad might have been contenders on the evidence of the anthemic “Back in the Working Class” — nose-to-the-9-to-5-grindstone lyrics with a “socialist” twist.

[Jim Green]