Some might call 1994 "the year that punk broke (again)," and whatnot. This statement has developed from a mere musical hypothesis to the generic buzz-phrase of the hour. It is a label thrown around often in relation to marketing and hype.

But the question that accompanies this bold remark is this: Do Green Day and the Offspring, the two bands whose names are usually found under such marketing ploys, truly embody the basic, anarchic, chaotic, simplistic principles of punk rock, or are they in a sense parodizing them?

The issue is inconclusive, but it is reasonable to say that fans of punk rock would become engaged in serious contemplation on this upon a listen to D Generation, the explosive debut album of the band with the same name.

The most noticeable element of this album is that, unlike other punk-rock acts of today, they do not really seem to be "carrying the torch." They are more of an anachronism than a modern interpretation of a classic style. Had the album come out in 1979, it would have soared without a doubt, right alongside works of The New York Dolls and the Ramones, bands who clearly influenced these poofy-haired glam-punks, who are also from New York City.

Now it is 1995 and this album, though delightful to fans of old-school punk, is in many ways hard to swallow. Lets face it, as much as we try to convince ourselves that punk-rock is finally getting the attention it deserves, it is in fact a much more distinct level of what is essentially loud pop, which is now in demand, not punk.

D Generation's two opening tracks, "No Way Out" (the current single) and "Sins of America" are bold, loud and intense, not merely in terms of decibels. They remind the listener of now-historic cries of anarchy, chaos, blatant apathy, paranoia and general disgust with everything.

Another noteworthy tune is "Falling," a slower, catchier hate-ballad. But unfortunately the most shining track on the album is a cover tune. In sync with the name of the band and album,"Degenerated," originally by Reagan Youth, is by far the most revved-up, pumpin' song here. It is also the only song in which the band really sounds like they are having fun.

D Generation is highly commendable for perfectly recreating something that everybody seems to want to recreate right now. The flip side is that it is not all that enjoyable according to the musical values prevalent today.

Keep two words in mind: "basic" and "simplistic." Modern punk bands may be satirizing the scene more than perpetuating it, but maybe that is the most appropriate way of handling an aspect of adolescence that most are no longer able to maintain.