Superchunk to a huge lead forward with the release of 'No Pocky For Kitty'. While like their first album its clear what the band's musical influences are, on this album those influences don't dictate Superchunk's sound, they turn it into something if not unique then very individual. The other major difference from the their first album is the band's song writing craft. There's not any filler here, each song has great hooks and pop craft underneath the snarling crunching guitars. From 'Skip Steps 1 & 2' to 'Punch Me Harder' is a flawless opening volley that doesn't see the band repeating themselves or have a dull moment. Some credit must go to Steve Albini yes for making them sound so ferocious keeping their dense layered sound, but at the same time crystal clear. However had he produced (or engineered I think is the term he prefers) their first album is still wouldn't have been that great, but combined with the great songs Superchunk put together for 'No Pocky For Kitty' the album surpasses just being great and becomes classic. This albums needs to be blasted loudly from stereos (be careful of listening to it on headphones it can hurt your ears seriously) on warm summer afternoons, or anytime really, but warm summer afternoons seem to work best for me. If you only get one Superchunk album (and there's at least two others you ought to) get this one. Its the moment Superchunk arrived, full of life, an independent spirit and great tunes.

I listened to this in the car today, and it is still great.

And it's the albums that are the strongest. I got most of the eps and each one is, to me, half great songs and half nothin' much songs. This albums, however, is very strong. Rather than petering out after about 5 songs I really like the first 11 of 12, and the first 9 even better. They hit me in the right groove, guitars that don't quit, a vocals I like, and music that has a strong indie rock sound. Lyrically, it's ok, though, I gotta admit, lyrics, in general, have little interest for me. At church when the band that sounds like SMASHING PUMPKINS has worship lyrics, then it hits it for me. Still, this album, if you want movin' sounds, that is, not slow stuff, fun occasional harmony and a real modern American sound, this is it. Sure, on occasion they slow down a bit, but usually this is driving music, perfect for the road really, if you ask me. chrisbct@hotmail.com

...We called it "melodic punk"--heartfelt, angst-filled, barely perceptible lyrics playing second-fiddle to driving baselines and distorted guitar waves creating a blissful cacophony of sweet melody. No Pocky is the venith of all an indie rock band can aspire to be on one album. As Nirvana walked on the sidewalk of music culture in the early '90s, Superchunk was Throwing Things down on them, from the treetops of DIY. If you don't understand, listen to the album and be re-born. Thanks for the flashback.

I saw Superchunk several times in the late 1980s, 1990, and 1991. This album strikes me as their best work. Often called "Muppet Rock," because of the upbeat nature of many of their tunes, I guess (unless it was the bouncing around on stage...), the tunes are bouncy, the lyrics are personal, and yes, it's sort of punkish.

"Skip Steps 1 and 3" seemed to be the tune of the day on college radio, but I came to like "Cast Iron" and "Punch Me Harder" better.

It was hard to beat The Chunk for pure energy back in that day. It's still a fun listen.