On his debut solo effort Rick Barton, co-founder and chief songwriter for The Dropkick Murphys, comes out kicking and screaming like a newborn from the womb. He rounded up some of Boston's finest to help out with this project, including members of The Del Fuegos, The Amazing Royal Crowns and Swinging Steaks. He combines elements of The Clash and Social Distortion, but doesn't limit himself to these influences. Mr. Barton's whiskey-soaked voice has an amazing sincerity and lends honesty to each lyric that pours from his lips. His conviction and emotional delivery are not to be denied and even when familiarity does creep in- Rick adds just enough twists and turns to make things increasingly exciting. Standouts include "Lookin' Out" with its pounding rhythm and Matthew Sweet-style riff. "These Kids" fuels the driving four on the floor beat with a Stiff Little Fingers guitar line and a chorus that sticks in your head refusing to leave. As the disc progresses, it's clear that fans of the former mentioned bands will not be disappointed, and neither will Dropkicks' fans who should run to the store to pick this disc up. Highly recommended. (Shady) THE NOISE, 12/26/2002 RICK BARTON AND THE SHADOW BLASTERS One Way Productions An American Rock Song 12-song CD