One Inch Punch... What can I say about them? They are probably one of the best punk bands ever to have existed. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, they went through sevral name changes. Originally known as Downfall, thy changed their name to One Inch Punch in '95, then again to Mid Youth Crisis in '97. Unfortunately they broke up in late '98, but they left behind some truly amazing albums.

Lost In What We Lack was their first full-length release, which is interesting, because it's the only album of theirs which is still available in stores. Containing all the tracks from their Downfall demo, as well as about ten new tracks, this album took the Australian punk scene by storm. The original 750 copies they pressed sold out quickly, and so it was re-mastered and re-released in greater numbers.

The artwork and overall presentation of the album shows what they're about: no-bullshit punk. This five-piece has a raw sound which matches their attitude and their lyrics.

To say they were a success would be a lie. They were never a commercial success, but they were recognised internationally as the best Australian punk band at the time, and they were a success where it mattered: in the hearts of dedicated punkers. They never sold out like recent Aussie punk successes One Dollar Short, or the shameful Frenzal Rhomb (Frenzal Rhomb were better when Jay was in the band, to quote Nancy Vandal), and they never stopped playing small gigs for small groups of fans. Their last gig in '99 was a sellout, as were their recent reunion shows (february 2002), which just goes to show: they made a lasting impression on everyone who experienced their magic.

Listen to this album and several things become apparent: They are totally uncompromising. You will find no fancy effects and tricks on this album (or on their other releases: 'ignorant bliss' and 'happiness and authority'). Strangely remenicent of late 80's and early 90's fast punk, yet with a feel all it's own, this album makes it's mark in time. Newcomers to this album invariably pick the final track 'Youthful Expression' as their favourite, and with reason. It is catchy as hell, and a lot less abrasive than the rest of the album. Steve's voice suits the music well, and while difficult to make out, the lyrics are very intense.

It's hard to determine exactly what it is about this album which makes it so impressive. I won't lie and say it's immediately accessable, but like all good music it slowly grows on you. Music which instantly appeals has a name: Pop music. If you like that stuff, then you shouldn't be here, and you certainly shouldn't consider buying Lost In What We Lack. It is what it is: great punk. It goes from fast to slow and back again, never sounds formulaic, and continues to satisfy long after you've familiarised yourself with it.

Some of the best beats and riffs i've ever heard are contained within this little gem of an album, and the singing is truly unique.

I think it's the best of their albums, so if you like the others then definately buy this. Hurry though, as I just got word that Shock has stopped pressing this album, and so before long the only copies in existence will be on the shelves of Punk record stores and in the CD players of dedicated fans.