If it's true that the post-September 11 US economy is showing signs of recovery, then the upturn may owe a lot to punk. A new generation of loud, snotty punk bands like Blink 182 and Pennywise are doing wonders for US exports. Most of these bands have been around for years, yet find themselves in demand because of the world's (and particularly the UK's) craving for all things guitarish and noisy.
Alkaline Trio formed in 1996 and their early recordings for Asian Man Records did not exactly set the charts on fire. However, in the past three months their career - here, at least - has gone into overdrive.
The choice of venue for their first Manchester appearance had to be upgraded twice. They finally settled on the cavernous Academy, which has played host to the Chemical Brothers and David Bowie.
The trio must be wondering: "Why us?" Kerrang! magazine and their accompanying TV channel have been notably supportive, but the young fanbase have detected something real in Alkaline Trio that speaks to them.
The Chicago threesome write uplifting punk melodies with decidedly dark lyrics - the perfect music for painting your bedroom walls black and storming out of the house.
Their show is remarkable not for the band so much as the audience - boots flail, entire spaces are cleared by wild dancing and at least one person attempts the Olympic high-jump record in the middle of a pogo.
The band, though, do assist. Opening somewhat bravely with their imminent hit Stupid Kid, the band hit a high-octane groove and never leave it.
There's nothing particularly new or original about the power trio's turbocharged anthems - with echoes of old punks the Ramones and Stiff Little Fingers - but their energy is impossible to resist. Although he looks youthful (a ringer for the young Henry Rollins), Matt Skiba's lyrics delve into the darkness, particularly the harrowing consequences of alcoholism. The line "Never had a drink I didn't like" hints at disturbance rather than bonhomie.
Although they thrash out their songs, move little and are low on between-song announcements, the band obviously have a heart. They are one of the few US acts to speak out against the "racist" post-September 11 American foreign policy.
They may win accolades for exports but George Bush will never be a fan - surely the utmost recommendation.
