Zero Defex may have been a mere flash pot in American hardcore, but they were a firestorm in Akron/Cleveland during the early '80s. The band helped nurture the small but burgeoning local scene for two years, before it disappeared into obscurity by late 1983, leaving only a four-song trace of its existence on the New Hope compilation. The 22 songs on the reunited band's new CD come fast and furious — a cross between the old Maumee/Detroit punk bands (Necros) and D.C.'s straight-edge groups (Minor Threat), tossed with a dash of Ramones, a pinch of Misfits, and a wave of Black Flag. Standouts include "Drop the A Bomb on Me," the Misfits-like "Zombies Don't Thrash," and "Hey Tommy Strange," a post-pop tribute to Zero Defex's former guitarist.
