2006 Warped Tour Compilation CD

Arranger: C.J. Cnossen.
While every annual WARPED TOUR COMPILATION features an army of emo, punk-pop, and hardcore acts, the 2006 edition offers up a few stylistic surprises. The admirably eclectic two-disc set begins with "The End," a propulsive track by Saves the Day, and proceeds to touch on alternative metal (Helmet's "Bury Me"), gypsy rock (via Gogol Bordello's "Not a Crime"), and neo-goth rock (I Am Ghost's "We Are Always Searching"), while also including usual suspects like screamo heroes Escape the Fate ("Ransom").
Punk fans will be hard pressed to find more bang for the buck than on the Warped Tour: 2006 Compilation. Rounding up 51 bands on two discs for less than $10.00, it's cheaper (and almost as satisfying) than buying two bottles of water at the actual event to keep from passing out in the hot sun. As on previous collections, Side One Dummy pulls from the wide assortment of groups hitting the road for summer 2006 to give an ample preview of the upcoming event. With various rare/unreleased tracks, it's both an adequate substitute for those unable to attend the show and a great way to make figuring out what-bands-to-catch-today easier for those who do go. And there's something for everyone: hardcore and metal fans can catch up with Underoath, the Banner, Every Time I Die or Protest the Hero. Bedouin Soundclash brings some smooth reggae flair, while the Riverboat Gamblers, Irish punks Flogging Molly, and the gypsy stylings of Gogol Bordello are sure to shake things up in the pit. Emo appears in multiple forms, from the quirky pop-punk of Hellogoodbye to the swirling rock of Moneen. Politi-punks can hit up Anti-Flag, the Casualties, or even Against Me!, while old standbys like Good Riddance, the Bouncing Souls, and NOFX are sure to satisfy all. A huge positive is that the label is smart and kind enough to release this compilation before the actual tour kicks off, enabling potential concert-goers to preview their new favorite bands before even getting to the event. Warped has become notorious for having so many different bands on innumerable stages that not only is it impossible to keep schedules straight, but also to even know what groups are present on any given day. So one really has to appreciate Side One for helping to map out and later on, remember the show a little easier. The compilation won't help sweaty fans make it through the Warped crowd hydrated and sunburn-free, but it can serve as the perfect soundtrack to the before and after. ~ Corey Apar