The trio in Value Pac announce their intentions early on, opening their debut with "Graduation Day," a track that conveys the mixed emotions when making that transition from high school to the next destination. With a rounded-at-the-corners brand of punk pop, Value Pac moves along at a fast clip, covering such topics as loss of innocence, hypocrisy and faithfulness. However, without the angst of a MxPx, the sense of humor of a Ghoti Hook or the pop fuzz of an Offspring, much of this record is just average. The members of Value Pac certainly have potential, as promised by "Sunday Christian"; it's inventive--musically and lyrically. Now, if they can pull this sort of thing off 14 more times ...
Other coverage for this album
The Lighthouse December 1996Reviewed by John Beeler"Oh gollygeewhiz," I said as I glanced at the cover of the latest album from Seattle's Tooth & Nail, "another MxPx-wannabe. Joy." But the CD case looked cool and, besides, the cover in all its pastel glory screamed, "New Formula!" So I gave Value Pac a shot. Value Pac made its national debut on a $2 Tooth & Nail sampler (which is still for sale in many stores) alongside Ghoti Hook with the songs,…Garlic Press #4Reviewed by UnknownFrom California, the 3 member Value Pac have "POPped" up from nowhere, with this their debut release of 15 songs on T & N. Nothing new here. Fans of MxPx will not be disappointed. Classic, polished new school punk and major harmonies. Typical lyrics.
