Punk can often be associated with simple songwriting, relying on its emotional intensity to carry what throughout the genre’s history has occasionally been rudimentary musicianship. This is not the case with the Linda Lindas and their new second record, No Obligation. The Los Angeles four piece digs through all kinds of guitar music through the record’s rollicking 35 minutes. There’s power pop sensibilities, 80s FM pop harmonies, glam punk and more.

This far-reaching ambition shines the brightest in the anthemic “Nothing Would Change,” a lá “Dancing with Myself” and Blink-182’s most popular moments. The guitar riff that kicks the song into gear is an infectious hook, the type of hook that guarantees the song that follows will be a highlight of the record. The bridge is destined to be hollered by the masses on the festival circuit, forming a song that has all the makings of a hit. Their range is demonstrated immediately following, with the visceral “Excuse Me,” which comes so naturally to the Linda Lindas it’s as if the song is a genre standard they practiced upon forming the band. Some piano even sneaks in on the album closer “Stop,” hinting at even further expansions and explorations in the band’s future.

No Obligation’s production is blisteringly clear, crisp and tight. Rather than relying on a singular guitar tone, songs like “Once Upon A Time” see their massive chords and breakneck rhythms cast over a widescreen, making the pace changes and pauses all the more effective. The production and variety of the record is a testament to the band’s skill when considering that it was recorded over school breaks, as three of the quartet have yet to finish high school. This sort of schedule flexibility speaks to the members’ friendship, which dates back to 2018, and pays homage to the camaraderie of punk rock.

As is often the case for young bands, the Linda Lindas’ sophomore release is a step forward from their 2022 debut Growing Up, exploring different avenues of energetic, harmony-laden guitar music. No Obligation is a standout case of a record that demonstrates real growth and expansion, an embrace of pop leanings in a way that doesn’t leave the Linda Lindas’ punk credibility at the door. Self-proclaimed “studio geeks,” the Linda Lindas’ experience and vision is already paying dividends, and No Obligation will one day serve as a touchstone in what seems to be an evolving and promising drive.

Order No Obligation by The Linda Lindas HERE