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Oct 11, 2024 Web Exclusive By Andy Von Pip

The Linda Lindas gained widespread attention in 2021 after a video of their performance at the Los Angeles Public Library, which included their song “Racist, Sexist Boy” went viral. But it was their debut album, 2022’s Growing Up, that truly cemented their place in the pop-punk landscape. With their second full-length release, No Obligation, The Linda Lindas continue to channel that fearless energy and youthful exuberance into an album packed with memorable songs.

From the first crashing chords of the title track, with bassist Eloise Wong declaring, “I don’t got no obligation, just brush off all expectation,” it’s clear The Linda Lindas aren’t here to conform—they’re here to disrupt. In a male-dominated industry, they’re carving out their own space on their own terms.

This sophomore release highlights the band’s growth as both songwriters and performers. Tracks such as the edgy, anxiety-tinged “Too Many Things,” the searing “Revolution/Resolution,” and the irresistibly catchy “All In My Head” and “Lose Yourself” showcase their knack for crafting tunes that linger long after they’ve ended. While you can hear echoes of influences like Bikini Kill, Dum Dum Girls, and Green Day (who they’ve recently been touring with), The Linda Lindas have developed a sound that’s entirely their own.

It’s an album that exudes sincerity and urgency, deftly blending garage rock, power pop, New Wave, and rock en español with a nimbleness that belies their age. In a music scene often clouded by cynicism, No Obligation serves as a powerful reminder of authenticity and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. This album captures a band, who—lest we forget—are still in middle and high school, not only finding their voice but wielding it with impressive confidence. (www.thelindalindas.com)

Author rating: 8/10