AMG Review of Don't Miss the Train

Jo-Ann Greene
All Music Guide

Fat Wreck Chords takes note of its biggest bands' pasts, reissuing their earliest albums released before they joined the Fat family. Don't Miss the Train was No Use for a Name's second album, and it was quite a change from the group's debut, Incognito. Now expanded to a quartet with the arrival of second guitarist Chris Dodge, the band was undergoing a notable metamorphosis. Previously, thundering metal was intercut with occasional flashes of punk, normally found within the song's choruses. The metal still flails across the grooves here, but now the hardcore is coming to the fore. Stronger melodies are appearing, the choruses are more anthemic, harmonies are creeping in, and, overall, the tracks are faster and boast a lighter touch. Songs like the fast and furious "Another Step," the melody-driven title track, and the thoughtful "Death Don't Care" are signposts to the band's future path. No Use for a Name had not arrived yet, but the band had caught the train and was well on its way.