5 Albums I Can’t Live Without: Randy Bradbury of Pennywise and 84 Days

Explore the passion behind Randy Bradbury’s top 5 essential albums that shaped his bass playing and love for punk and rock.

If you’re a fan of punk rock or have ever admired the deep, driving bass lines of Pennywise, then entering Randy Bradbury’s world is like stepping into a treasure trove of punk and rock history. From legendary bands that shaped the scene to timeless riffs that inspire every note he plays, Randy’s top five albums reveal just how much music fuels his soul. Let’s dive right into the records that he simply can’t live without.

84 Days. (Credit: Johnny B)

Who Is Randy Bradbury?

Before we get into the albums, a quick intro: Randy Bradbury is best known as the bassist for the iconic punk band Pennywise and also plays in the band 84 Days. Residing in Huntington Beach, Randy is exactly where he wants to be—living the dream of making music that resonates. His excitement about 84 Days’ debut album, which dropped on November 7, is palpable. Randy’s music collection is a blend of late ’70s rock and punk with bands like The Clash, David Bowie, Cheap Trick, Boston, and a sprinkle of newer acts like Home Front. He even admits to throwing in some Juice WRLD for a touch of variety!

When it comes to how he listens, Randy prefers convenience: streaming music is his go-to because who wants to wrestle with vinyl or CDs when you just want to crank it up?

5 Albums I Can’t Live Without:

1. Machine Gun Etiquette by The Damned

Randy’s love for punk hits hard with this one. From the very first bass intro on “Love Song,” he knew this album was something special. He calls it “the best and most well-rounded punk rock album” he’s ever heard. It carries power and energy in every instrument, with choruses and vocals that stick with you. Not to be overlooked, Captain Sensible’s guitar solos throughout the album are like little gems that elevate the whole experience. It’s punk rock that’s raw but also artistically rich.

2. The Black Album by The Damned

Another masterpiece from The Damned, this album shows the band’s versatility. They could crank up the speed or slow it down with melodic ease, mixing raunchy punk with tuneful charm. Randy points out the addition of Paul Gray on bass as a major influence on his own playing style—Gray’s groove and technique left a lasting impression. This album isn’t just punk; it’s punk with attitude and finesse.

3. Suffer by Bad Religion

Randy highlights Suffer as an album packed with power, melody, and harmony. It’s impactful and cohesive—qualities that helped redefine punk rock’s sound from the ’80s onward. The melodic approach combined with intense energy made it a game-changer, and anyone who’s listened closely to punk since can trace its influence. For Randy, this album is a cornerstone of punk’s evolution.

4. No Control by Bad Religion

If “Suffer” was punk’s sonic blast, “No Control” feels like its powerful sequel. Randy calls it “Suffer 2.0,” noting how it’s even more cohesive, melodic, and forceful. Both albums stand tall as punk classics, neck-and-neck in their significance. He also mentions The Clash’s debut album as another contender for best punk album, though it just missed this particular list.

5. Heaven and Hell by Black Sabbath

No punk bassist’s collection is complete without paying homage to rock legends. Randy’s respect for Black Sabbath runs deep. Even as punk took center stage in his life, Sabbath’s riffs kept blasting through his speakers. Tony Iommi’s riff mastery is unmatched, and bassist Geezer Butler’s playing inspired much of Randy’s own bass style. As for vocals, Randy believes Ronnie James Dio surpasses even Ozzy Osbourne on this record, making Heaven and Hell an unforgettable album that merges metal’s power with rock’s soul.

"Iommi is the absolute riff master, nobody can touch him. Geezer is so amazing, every best bass lick I’ve ever done is some version of what I thought Geezer was doing." – Randy Bradbury

Wrapping Up the Soundtrack to Randy Bradbury’s Life

Randy Bradbury’s list isn’t just a collection of albums; it’s a journey through punk and rock history, threaded with personal inspirations and musical milestones. From the raw energy of The Damned to the melodic intensity of Bad Religion and the timeless power of Black Sabbath, these records have shaped him both as a musician and a fan.

FAQ

• Which album had the biggest influence on Randy’s bass playing?
  The Damned’s The Black Album had a major impact, especially with bassist Paul Gray inspiring Randy’s style.
• Why does Randy prefer streaming over physical formats?
  He finds streaming the easiest and most convenient way to listen to music without fuss.
• What genre variety does Randy enjoy outside of punk rock?
  Late ’70s rock, folk-infused acts like Lord Huron, and even some modern hip-hop like Juice WRLD.
• How does Randy describe The Damned’s albums?
  As well-rounded with the ability to blend fast, slow, melodic, and raunchy punk seamlessly.
• Who does Randy consider the best vocalist on Black Sabbath’s Heaven and Hell album?
  Ronnie James Dio, whom he praises as the absolute best vocalist.

If these albums strike a chord with you, why not bring the vibe home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store and keep the music alive on your walls: Architeg Prints.