Out of Order - Under the Knife

Album Review: Under the Knife by Out of Order

Montreal’s street rock ‘n’ roll veterans Out of Order are back with their fifth full-length album, Under the Knife. This gritty, high-energy record cements their reputation as a force in Oi!-influenced punk rock, delivering 10 tracks of raw power, heartfelt lyrics, and anthemic choruses. Despite a lineup change since their 2020 release Life Sentence, the band hasn’t missed a beat.

The album opens with The Grass Is Greener, a nostalgic banger about cherished memories with old friends, setting a vibrant tone for what follows. Tracks like Stay With Me and Saints and Sinners dig into themes of resilience and the unifying power of punk rock, while the title track, Under the Knife, pairs introspective lyrics about life’s struggles with soaring dual guitar melodies.

Valley of the Wolves stands out as a biting critique of urban gentrification, showcasing the band’s knack for weaving social commentary into raucous punk anthems. Breonna, a deeply moving track addressing systemic injustice and the tragic case of Breonna Taylor, highlights Out of Order’s ability to balance ferocity with poignancy. Other highlights include the blistering Daybreak and the unexpectedly tender closing track, Halfway to Nowhere, a love song packed with emotional depth.

Musically, Under the Knife brims with memorable hooks, fiery solos, and pounding rhythms, proving that this isn’t just “three-chord punk.” Comparisons to bands like The Drowns, Bishops Green, and The Terraces are well-earned, but Out of Order carves out their own space with a unique mix of grit and melody. The production is crisp without losing the raw edge that defines their sound.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band, Under the Knife is a must-listen. Add this one to your collection.