The Zips

**The Zips** are a scrappy UK punk outfit who’ve been kicking out DIY anthems since the late ’90s. Known for their raw energy and cheeky political edge, their sound channels the spirit of old-school punk legends like The Clash (they even tip their hats with the *Road to Strummerville* track). Tracks like *Stop the War* and *19 Forevva* double as rallying cries, blending shout-along choruses with lyrics that take aim at authority and apathy. Their releases, from the sneering *Huh!?* to the self-deprecating *Guitars4Hire*, thrive on unpolished riffs, sweat-soaked gig vibes, and a refusal to take themselves too seriously. Whether they’re mocking themselves (*Down with the Zips*) or cranking up the volume on protest punk, these veterans keep the underground spirit alive—one three-chord banger at a time.