In their latest single, “PC” from their debut album If Everyone’s An Expert, Cardiff’s punk noise trio Penny Rich explore the idea of political correctness. The two track single offers both the studio version and a live version of the song, alongside the band’s debut live video.
If you’re unfamiliar with Penny Rich, they were born out of a shared passion for 90’s grunge and noise and in need to creatively express themselves. On the inspiration of “PC”, frontman Ant explains,
“The song is inspired by the troubling rise of populist tendencies within mainstream politics in the UK and beyond. You need only look at recent rhetoric surrounding the refugee crisis, serving to embolden those with outdated views on misguided sovereignty (and that’s putting it politely). PC essentially explores one’s inner monologue in trying to seek the moral high (politically correct) ground in such debates, versus indulging that inner primal desire to fight fire with fire.”
The song could not arrive at a more perfect time. Freedom of speech is at the forefront with the current wars and politics. While I am all for free speech and for one to speak freely, free speech does not mean freedom from consequences and I believe that’s what one tends to forget when they say something that gets them fired or so called ‘cancelled’.
But I digress, let’s get back to the task at hand. The one where I tell you to listen to “PC”. It’s bloody f’n brilliant. In fact, the entirety of If Everyone’s an Expert is. We sang its praise when it was released and will continue to do so.
The studio version emanates a gritty punk essence, while the live rendition amplifies its raw emotion. The live version’s unrefined nature enhances the bass riffs, evoking an anthem for rebellion. While the guitar serves as a call to arms and the drums drive the momentum, echoing the words of the late great Civil Rights leader and US Congressman John Lewis, “get in good trouble”.
With Penny Rich’s unapologetic ethos, they’re urging one to consciously confront conflict and “PC” tactfully demonstrates how channelling inner instincts in the face of fiery hate can be done without causing harm and preserving one’s integrity.
