Question: When is a new Jello Biafra collaboration album anything but excellent?

Answer: Never.

One would think that there would be a lot more albums addressing the social, political, and economics of America during this era we’re living in. However, leave it Jello Biafra to take the lead with THE GUANTANAMO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE to make their statement about where America is at and where it’s heading. The band’s sound is not too far off to the DEAD KENNEDYS in terms of its direct approach, excellent assortment of riffs, and anti-establishment attitude. However, that’s where the similarities end. JELLO BIAFRA AND THE GUANTANAMO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE dish out some of the heaviest riffs that Jello has ever written. The musicianship is top notch as well.

Despite the artwork being handled by artist Shepard Fairy coupled with the possible connotations of the album title, The Audacity of Hype is not necessarily an album directly towards or about Barack Obama. The album covers a wide array of issues including California’s Three Strikes law, the culture of consumerism, political mudslinging, and the negative effects of globalization.

The Audacity of Hype definitely gets better with successive listens and one gains a better appreciation for all that was involved in the making of it. Album closer, “I Won’t Give Up,” is a fitting and inspirational way to sum up the attitude of the band. When you’re ready for something other than prepackaged, easily digestible rebellion, JELLO BIAFRA AND THE GUANTANAMO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE have the album you’re looking for. (Alternative Tentacles)