Nose-Thumbers NOFX as Obnoxiously Fun as Ever

Although MTV exposure virtually guarantees bands a certain amount of success, there is a small but exceptional network of (mostly punk) rock groups that shun the commercial machine and still manage to sell tons of records.

With irreverent, often crude lyrics (many of which make fun of the mainstream music industry), local quartet NOFX is one of the granddaddies of this underground phenomenon.

Selling out three nights at the House of Blues in West Hollywood, the band showed that, after nearly 18 years, it continues to have a fierce following that believes in both the music and the message.

If Saturday was any indication, that message is the same as it was when the band started so long ago--party, party, party! Pumping out tunes from classic indie releases including 1994’s “Punk in Drublic,” NOFX showcased its best punchy ska ditties and manic skate-punk drenched anthems. The band’s short, sweet and often silly style brought to mind predecessors such as the Ramones as well as newer groups obviously inspired by NOFX’s mix of melodic aggression and wanton wackiness such as Blink-182 and Sublime.

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Unlike many of its peers, NOFX’s harmonious pop punk isn’t fueled by anger as much as obnoxious wit.

Tellingly, the hardcore veterans ended their brief set with “Theme From a NOFX Album,” a beer-chugging limerick with the chorus “We’re over 30, we’re doin’ just fine.” Indeed.

NOFX, with Furious IV and Mad Caddies, play tonight at the House of Blues, 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 7:30 p.m. Sold out. (323) 848-5100.