Welfare Problems
Welfare Problems is an album by Randy, released in 2003 by Burning Heart Records. It contains twelve tracks, including the single "X-Ray Eyes," which, alongside the closing track "Dirty and Cheap," also appears on the soundtrack of the Swedish black comedy Smala Sussie. Critical reception Welfare Problems has received critical acclaim. Johnny Loftus of AllMusic granted Welfare Problems 4 out of 5 stars, stating that the album "finds Randy's ideology undiluted by the addition of buzzing guitar hooks and shoutable choruses to its punk rock roots." In the review, Loftus positively likens Randy to punk rock bands like Ramones and garage rock bands like The Modern Lovers, complementing Randy's "staunchly socialist stumping" in their lyrics and citing the band's clear draws from Eddie Cochran and Roger Daltrey as lyrical and stylistic influences. Loftus also compliments the album's lead producer, Pelle Gunnerfeldt, for producing a sound "with touches of fuzz and a perfect mix of lead and supporting vocals." The review concludes with Loftus stating, "Randy may want the kids to rise up, but the band knows that shouting and dancing come first." Loftus cites "A Man in Uniform," "X-Ray Eyes," "Welfare Problems," and "Dirty and Cheap" as the standout tracks.