The 351’s was formed in September 2023 in Quebec City, Canada, and they’re a fresh force in the punk rock scene, carrying the torch for a sound that’s both timeless and rebellious. The trio—comprised of guitarist and vocalist Kev “Alley Cat” Berrigan, bassist Dom Rudester, and drummer Martin Gagne—draw their name from the 351 truck model featured in Steven Spielberg’s classic 1970s thriller Duel. This homage reflects the band’s gritty, road-hardened spirit, embodying the raw energy and uncompromising attitude of a bygone era.
In just a short span of time, The 351’s have carved out a niche for themselves with their commitment to the roots of punk rock. Their sound is steeped in the traditions of 70s punk and early Oi!, echoing the fast-paced aggression of the Sex Pistols and the infectious, punchy rhythms of the Ramones. Yet, they are far from mere imitators. By blending those classic influences with a modern edge, The 351’s craft music that feels fresh and urgent. Their tracks are unapologetically loud, energetic, and rough around the edges, delivering a raw sonic punch that’s hard to find in today’s highly polished punk landscape.
After signing with Pils Records, the band quickly garnered attention with their single “Mother Anarchy,” a song that encapsulates their devotion to pure, unfiltered punk rock. In a world where over-produced music often dominates the airwaves, The 351’s are a breath of fresh air—bringing back the raw, analog grit that defined early punk movements. Now, with their debut EP, No Replacement for Displacement, The 351’s are poised to make a significant impact, not just as newcomers, but as standard-bearers for a genre that thrives on authenticity and defiance.
Released on October 10th, 2024, “No Replacement for Displacement” is The 351’s explosive introduction to the punk rock scene, a debut EP that refuses to be ignored. Fueled by the band’s signature old-school punk sound, tinged with early Oi! influences and a modern twist, this record is a defiant statement of purpose. From the crackling radio distortion that kicks off the opening track to the relentless rhythms and gritty, anthemic choruses, the EP delivers a pure shot of adrenaline straight to the heart.
Each song on the record captures the raw, rebellious spirit of the band, blending classic punk aesthetics with a contemporary edge. The EP’s title itself, “No Replacement for Displacement”, is a nod to the band’s philosophy: there’s no substitute for genuine, unfiltered rock energy. With analog warmth and an unrelenting drive, The 351’s have crafted a debut that is as fierce as it is memorable, marking the beginning of what promises to be a bold and unrepentant journey in punk music.
No Replacement For Displacement EP Track List:
Mother Anarchy:
“Mother Anarchy,” the opening track of “No Replacement For Displacement”, is an unapologetic burst of old-school punk energy that sets the tone for The 351’s debut EP. From the moment it begins, the song establishes itself as a bold and aggressive declaration of the band’s ethos. The track kicks off with a disorienting, static-filled intro that evokes the sound of a radio struggling to find a clear signal—a perfect metaphor for the chaotic and rebellious spirit of punk. This atmospheric opening lasts until the 0:15 mark, where the song suddenly erupts into a full-throttle assault of pounding drums, gritty guitar riffs, and a driving bassline. This immediate shift from disorder to high-energy intensity hooks the listener, pulling them straight into the frenzied world of The 351’s.
Lead vocalist Kev “Alley Cat” Berrigan is the force behind “Mother Anarchy,” his powerful voice slicing through the dense wall of sound with raw conviction. His gruff, textured vocals perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of classic punk, while still maintaining enough melody to keep listeners engaged. This balance of edge and melody is one of the song’s greatest strengths, providing a visceral experience without sacrificing accessibility. The backing vocals add another layer of energy, creating a collective, almost anthemic feel that invites listeners to shout along. The song’s structure is straightforward and direct, much like the message it conveys—a throwback to a time when punk was about attitude, simplicity, and raw emotion.
The rhythmic consistency in “Mother Anarchy” keeps the listener’s adrenaline levels high from start to finish. The track maintains a groovy, mid-tempo pace that’s both aggressive and infectious, making it impossible not to move along. This sense of relentless drive, paired with the clarity of the production, highlights the band’s commitment to authenticity, avoiding the over-polished sound that often characterizes modern punk. Instead, The 351’s have crafted a song that captures the raw energy and vitality of the genre, honoring its roots while carving out a space for themselves in the contemporary punk scene. “Mother Anarchy” is a fitting opener to an EP that promises to keep the rebellious flame of punk rock burning bright.
The Hearse Song:
“The Hearse Song” is a standout track on The 351’s debut EP, “No Replacement For Displacement”. Right from its beginning, the song establishes an eerie and atmospheric tone with a tranquil female vocal melody, a rare and unexpected choice in punk rock. This calm and serene opening creates a tension that lingers in the air, preparing listeners for the explosive shift to come. At precisely 0:12, that tension breaks, and the song launches into a fierce, fast-paced rhythm that embodies the raw energy of classic punk rock. The transition is seamless, capturing the band’s ability to blend contrasting elements and creating a sonic experience that feels both surprising and authentic.
Instrumentally, “The Hearse Song” is a masterclass in tight, punchy execution. The song’s core is driven by a relentless drumbeat and electrifying guitar riffs that pulse with intensity. The bassline, thick and gritty, adds texture and depth, giving the track a distinctive groove. This combination of powerful drums, razor-sharp guitars, and rumbling bass captures the very essence of punk’s energetic spirit, while the melodies hint at the band’s knack for creating memorable, catchy hooks. Each instrumental element is harmonized to perfection, contributing to a high-octane, fast-tempo rock rhythm that makes the song feel alive, as if it’s vibrating with rebellious energy.
Lead vocalist Kev “Alley Cat” Berrigan brings the track to life with his grungy, forceful delivery. His voice is full of zeal and urgency, carrying the track with an infectious power that grips the listener. The rich, raw texture of his voice is complemented by the backing vocals, which bring warmth and depth to the song’s sound. The backing singers match the lead’s intensity, creating a fuller and more dynamic soundscape that maintains its momentum throughout. The track never loses steam, its energy remaining high from beginning to end, making “The Hearse Song” a defining example of The 351’s ability to marry classic punk aggression with a modern sense of melody and rhythm. It’s a song that demands attention and keeps you hooked from the first haunting note to the final thrashing chord.
“No Replacement for Displacement” is The 351’s powerful debut, one that doesn’t hold back and makes a mark. It’s evident that this band is just starting to establish themselves, since they are already working on their second EP. They provide the punk scene a new, yet recognizable, voice that pays homage to the genre’s origins while giving it new life. Anyone who finds comfort in the gritty, rebellious side of music should listen to this EP; it’s a call to all who long for authenticity in a time where overly polished production is the norm. This EP is a must-listen for punk rock enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate the raw energy of bands like Rancid, the melodic grit of Hot Water Music, or the classic rebellion of the Sex Pistols. The 351’s are a band to watch, and “No Replacement for Displacement” is just the beginning of their journey to punk prominence.
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