Best of 2014

I know I don't do reviews regularly on here anymore, but I still like doing my annual "Best of..." post. So what you get is a detailed review/list. Obviously I would highly recommend all of the releases on this list, please support the bands and labels making things happen currently. I feel like this year I didn't get as many records as I normally would. But despite starting a new job and moving to a new apartment, I feel I still gotten a ton of great new records. A lot of amazing bands have been coming from Boston and the UK (most having some connection to the Rival Mob and Violent Reaction).
*In the time it took to write this, some of my "Anticipated Releases for 2015" got released. Not to say they don't warrant a spot on this list, but I haven't had a chance to fully digest them.*

On the label front, Bleeding Edges Label released 5 tapes (only one being a demo). I've made a Bandcamp page for people to listen and download everything, and made some cool new wholesale connections. I got to do a new EP for one of my favorite 2000's era edge bands, Black SS. I got a new band of my own, Blunt Force, which has started playing shows. Did 2 promo cassingles- for Protester and Razorheads' new 7"s, which got a great reception. It's always good to see the bands I worked with grow, and do more records and gain more notoriety. No plans of stopping in 2015, so keep an eye out!

Best 7"s of 2014:
1. Protester- s/t (Trash King Productions)
Protester has been pretty productive the past year; toured the US this summer, did a promo tape with me (for this EP), and even announced their next EP will be on BBB Records. This band started out as the brain child of Connor, who currently plays in Red Death, Genocide Pact and others. The Protester sound mixes the hardness of bands like Confront, with the early 80's more punk sounding HC from Boston and NYC. Their intro on here is killer, definitely going to be turning some heads this year

2. Violent Reaction- Dead End (Painkiller / Quality Control Records)
The boys are back with their first record as a full band. It's a bit more full sounding, but same VxR we know and love. Musically there is a bit more oi/punk than HC vibe, which was hinted at on songs on previous records, just more prominent now. Crazy that their next LP will be out on Revelation Records, which hopefully means they will come back to the USA again. This band, and their associated projects are all great.

3. Peacebreakers- Everyday Battle (Rock N Roll Disgrace Records)
Peacebreakers' demo had some killer songs, but sounded like it was recorded in a dumpster. This 7" blows it away though with a lot more power. I get a heavy Out Cold vibe from some of the riffs, but there is some more sing along to the choruses. This band has 3/5 of Boston Strangler, so it should already have your attention Anyway, this record rips, and worth tracking down.

4. Savageheads- s/t (Twerp Records)
The Savageheads demo was so good, really catchy heavily influenced by the Partisans punk. The 7" has one song re-recorded plus 3 new ones. Aside from a cleaner sound, the song writing doesn't diverge further from the demo. Apparently this band is 3/4 of Bloodkrow Butcher, but sounds totally different. I really like this band, hopefully they do an LP soon.

5. Oblivionation- Cult of Culture (Man In Decline Records)
Being a huge Out Cold fan, Oblivionation was immediately on my radar (since they share a drummer). They actually recorded this after their LP, which as of now still isn't officially out yet. This is their first with their new bass player, and they continue playing punishing hardcore without missing a beat. Hopefully their LP receives a more wide release soon, because that is great as well.

Best LPs of 2014:
1. Boston Strangler- Fire (self released)
I have loved The Boston Strangler since their demo a few years ago, loved their Primative LP, and been following the various demos and promo tapes in the mean time. Despite having heard most of these songs in some form or another, this LP really blew me away. I feel like their sound evolved, and in a good way. The recording is a bit more polished, and the songwriting got a bit more complex. The album ends with a piano part, like a Faith No More song, but that's not a bad thing-it's great. The first press sold out pretty quick, but it's definitely worth waiting for, if you have to.

2. The Flex- Wild Stabs In The Dark (Video Disease Records)
The Flex has really evolved over the past few years. I was lucky enough to catch them 3 times on their recent US tour, and each time was awesome! The recording is a lot cleaner than their 7", and the song writing has definitely gone toward the late 80's NYHC sound. This record was my go to gym record for a few months, (only to be replaced by the Hounds of Hate LP) and I definitely got caught treadmill moshing more than once. Their next record will be on Lockin Out, which is crazy.

3. Battle Ruins- s/t (Rock N Roll Disgrace Records)
One of the more popular of The Rival mob's side projects, Battle Ruins released a demo a few years back (later put on a record). One time I described their sound to a friend as "skinheads at Medieval Times," and I stand by that. The music straddles a Oi meets NWOBHM sound, in that the vocals are sung and the music is mid-paced. When this record went up for sale, it sold out of 500 copies in a few hours. Definitely worthy of the hype, maybe they'll play a show one day.

4. Hounds Of Hate- Hate Springs Eternal (self released/BHF)
The Hounds are back with another smokin' LP. They've been putting in a lot of touring, including the US and Europe, and somehow found the time to release a new LP on their own label. Their sound definitely has that late 80's NYHC "New Breed comp" sound. I love that stuff, but find that 99% of bands that stick just to that sound suck, but HOH have a more punk backbone. They can easily play a show with some punk band in a basement, or with some hyped hc band in a club. They should be touring all over this year, make sure to catch them.

5. The Combat Zone- s/t (Side Two Records)
I caught The Combat Zone at some random show last winter, when they were on tour with Lude Boys, and both bands blew me away. They play some gruff oi influenced hardcore. Definitely staying more to the punk side of the 86 Mentality sounding bands. This is one of those hidden gem records I haven't seen too many people talk about, but it's great and the songs will get stuck in your head.

Best demos of 2014:
1. Arms Race 
Arms Race dropped their demo late last year, but had a US release this year (this is how I'm justifying it). The band has a few members of the now defunct Stab, but taking more influence from early Agnostic Front and Crucifix. The vocals are brutal and sung in a thick British accent, which makes it definitely stand out from the pack. Their new 7" is out in England, with a US release on Painkiller, and it is incredible. Stoked to see them in the US next year.

2. Ajax
This demo may have also come out late last year, but I got it this year (it was also released on vinyl by Even Worse Records). Ajax is a new band from NY with some people from Creem I believe. Musically, it reminds me of Totalitar, but with a more USHC slant. Very cool

3. Red Death
Red Death is a new Washington DC HC band, taking heavy cues from Corrosion of Conformity (particularly the Animosity LP). Definitely more metallic than hardcore, but sure as hell ain't metalcore. I grew up on metal, and that crossover stuff was always super cool to me, and these guys to it really well, mixing in a Cro-Mags vibe. Stoked for their LP coming out on Grave Mistake.

4. Crown Court
Members of Violent Reaction playing some awesome oi punk. Bands like Sham 69, Menace and the early (pre-bonehead) Skrewdriver come to mind, since it is very melodic and catchy. This isn't some hardcore/oi hybrid, it's pure UK punk. Really great, stoked for their 7", which should be out in early 2015

5. Response
Some badass straight edge hardcore punk from CA right here (can't remember the last time I could have said that about a band). Musically taking big cues from early Youth Of Today and Side By Side style NYHC, but with some Negative Approach bite to it. Definitely some good singalongs, without some of the overly cheesy typical straight edge lyrics.

Honorable Mentions:
V/A- Stomp-I-Lation, Razorheads- s/t, Cardiac Arrest- In The Mouth Of Madness, Pure Disgust- s/t, Body Count- Manslaughter, Missionary- American Strike, OblivionationJock's Blood demo, Shrapnel demo, Pitfall 7"

Best Reissues:
Autistic Behavior- Shattered Cattle, SOA- First Demo, Sacrilege- Time to Face the Reaper, Lip Cream- s/t, Lovely Lads- The Best You've Got, Offenders- Endless Struggle /We Must Rebel, YDI- A Place in The Sun

Anticipated Releases for 2015:
Violent Reaction LP, Vacant State- Chained EP, Spine- Time Has Gone LP, Arms Race- Gotta Get Out 7", No Tolerance LP, Mental Abuse- Streets of Filth reissue, Barge LP, Forseen- Helsinki Savagery LP, Night Birds LP, Protester 7", Red Death LP, Shrapnel 7", Ajax 7", Crown Court 7", Chain Rank LP

[BE-12] PROTESTER cassingle

Protester is back, this time with a new cassingle. This is a promo for their new 7", coming out on Trash King Productions. The A side will be on the new record, but the B side is exclusive to this release. Much like the cover art would suggest, this is heavily influenced by bands like Confront, very hard-edged straight edge hardcore. Their demo was incredibly well received, and these are expected to sell out quickly. These will be available at Damaged City Fest in April, with whatever is left available here.

Limited to 100 copies on pro duplicated and shrink wrapped gray cassettes, with imprinted shells and wraparound covers . (4 songs)
*Due to an error on my part, the first song is actually Let You Forget and not Left To Rot, as stated on the back cover. Oops*

Check it out along with their demo here: http://protester.bandcamp.com
Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com 
http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel

[BE-11] Ugly Parts- Wet

Ugly Parts from New Brunswick, NJ released a demo and 7" previously. They took some time to focus on this new EP, and it is worth the wait. "Wet" perfectly captures their sound like My War era Rollins joined Negative Approach, did drugs, then moved to Japan and X-claim released the end result. The production is raw, and contains samples and feedback to flow the whole thing together. Members also currently play in Razorheads.

Limited to 150 copies on pro duplicated smokey black cassettes, with printed labels and screen printed covers, sealed with a sticker. (7 songs)

Check out this, and their other releases here: http://uglyparts.bandcamp.com
Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com 
http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel

[BE-X.5] Hardcore Still Rules mixtape

 The story behind this one is that when we were moving offices at work, for some reason, 13 sealed 90 minute blank tapes were unearthed. Since they were to be thrown out, I figured I would give them a second life by doing a mix to get people into cool new bands. So as a cross promotion to get people to check out my buttons, I've uploaded the mixtape there. No downloads, just cassettes, only 12 made. 57 bands, 90 minutes of current hardcore. Check em out, and maybe add a button to you order. There's like 6 new designs!

http://bxebuttons.storenvy.com/products/5082563-hardcore-still-rules-mixtape
[UPDATE: SOLD OUT]

Best of 2013

So if you've been following this page for a while, you may notice a lack of reviews of HC records (sorry), but I assume you've noticed a lot of art and label related posts. To say I've focused my efforts elsewhere is fair, but I do miss talking HC. What I did here is do more in depth reviews of each release, since I never reviewed most of them before. I felt like this year had a ton of good LPs, while I don't think I got a lot of memorable zines (so they were omitted). It seems like a lot of labels are focusing on reissues, as they know their back catalog will sell better in a limited color, rather than taking a chance on a new HC band. It's really a shame, because I feel like newer bands are getting overlooked. HARDCORE STILL RULES!


Best 7"s of 2013:
1. The Flex- Scum On The Run
I love The Flex, I re-released their demo in the US, and I think this new 7" is even better. Adding Tom from Sectarian Violence and Violent Reaction on drums really helped tighten them up a ton. Their style of NYHC meets Boston, meets UK HC approach is so good. The recording is nice and dirty too. I can't wait for them to come to the US next spring w/ Violent Reaction. Seeing videos online of these guys playing, they get better and better.
2. Violent Future- s/t
LOVED Violent Future's demo, and this new 7" is great. You only get 4 songs (as opposed to the 6 on the demo), but they're all legit stompers. They take a very UK82/oi influence and play off that mid paced drumming with some powerful songs. Even the cover art is great. That brown cover w/ black and red ink looks so cool. I know they recorded another record recently, so I'm hoping that will also rule.
3. Altered Boys- s/t 2
So Altered Boys rule, I did a tape for them this year and did the layout on this record's cover. They recorded both 7"s at the same time, but I feel like this record's songs were their best. Rather than kicking the record off with a slower song with an intro, it kicks in with the fastest/ shortest song on the record. These guys are my favorite local band in a while, and I'm glad to have a no BS HC band (with an affinity for pink )locally. The band is on a sort of hiatus, but hopefully they can squeeze out another record before calling it a day.
4. Spine/ The Repos
Split 7"s are one of my least favorite format for HC (before CDs). 99.9% of them are throw away songs, rushed for a tour, don't make any sense, one band is good and the other is terrible. Luckily this record has none of those trappings. This is awesome, and easily Spine's best shit, and The Repos' best material since reforming as The Ropes a few years ago. I remember someone describing The Repos once as Youth of Today if they were psychopaths (I'd take that is a compliment), and I can probably say the same for Spine. There's definitely some youth crew background in both bands, but definitely mixed with a lot more diverse HC stylings. This is honestly my favorite split since the Talk Is Poison/ Deathreat split 7" over 10 years ago.
5. Future Binds- s/t
Some teenagers from North Carolina churned out this fucking killer 5 song record (it was recorded as a demo originally).  Heavily influenced by bands like Out Cold and Wasted Time, you have some fast early 80's influenced HC, but with complex riffs. This is great, I saw 3/4 of their old band Pure Scum last year, and even at like 15 years old, those dudes could shred. Adding Ace from Abuse on guitar ups the average age slightly, but their high school punk band is better than most adult HC bands.

 
Best LPs of 2013:
1. Violent Reaction- City Streets
Fuck yes, the Violent Reaction LP is even better than I hoped it would be. I loved their 7" and demo, but damn the LP steps it up a notch. I can hear a lot more of the UK82/Oi influence, though retaining the fast Poison Idea like HC meets Side By Side mosh sound there. There's some guest appearances on here from some Boston notables as well, which really expresses the unity and collaborative nature of HC in general. Sappy junk aside, this record is ridiculously good, and if you don't like it, I don't like you.
2. Culo- My Life Sucks, and I Could Care Less
Fucking Culo. Antics aside, these guys know how to write a HC song. I think a lot of people were skeptical if their fast HC assault would translate well into an LP. Welp, here it is, and you were wrong. There's still their usual sound, but mixed within is some mid paced songs with a tambourine like a Ramones song, if the Ramones were freaks who did a lot of drugs and lived in the mid-west. I feel like the diverse mix of style really keep this LP interesting, despite that gramatical error in the title.
3. Hounds Of Hate- s/t
Hounds of Hate really stepped it up from their 7", perfectly capturing that New Breed comp NYHC sound. Most NYHC influenced bands just sound like 25 Ta Life or bad era MAdball, but these guys blend Cro-Mags and Outburst perfectly. Definitely some hard mosh parts, and some fast parts to balance it out. Overall a great LP, hoping to see them some more next year.
4. Night Birds- Born To Die In Suburbia
Night Birds are Jersey's premiere punk band at the moment, and with good reason. With a new lineup, NB doesn't miss a beat, with their early 80's Dead Kennedys meets Agent Orange sound. The songs on here have a bit more punch than the previous LP, and I love it. I like how both sides of the LP start with instrumentals, something that in a CD format would be maybe weird, but totally works when you flip the record over. Expect Night Birds to do some more touring in 2014, as they took a few months break for the singer to be a dad (Congrats Bri!).
5. Magic Circle- s/t
Not really a hardcore band, but containing a HC lineup. Members of bands like Mind Eraser, Rival Mob, No Tolerance, Mental, and a ton more. Some Boston dudes with a love for Sabbath and NWOBHM. Their approach to metal is much better than most (maybe all) in the "stoner" category. This is seriously so good, but seemed to take over a year to get released. If this wasn't just a side project, I could see them being huge, and opening up for big tours.


 
Best demos of 2013:
1. Chain Rank 
Chain Rank made a late entry into the best demos category this year, but I did some shuffling to give them a proper spotlight. Similar to bands like Boston Strangler and Peacebreakers, nodding to the old Boston crew scene, but there's definitely some Out Cold records in their collections. Real fast, no punches pulled HC. Fucking Awesome!  
2. Night Prowler- Psychopath
Night Prowler did a tape a few years ago, and it was a straight up ripper. I feel like it got overshadowed by the Boston Strangler demo, which was released around the same time, but damn was it good. this new tape has way more songs, and takes it to a more Neon Christ/ Youth Korpse/ Deep Wound territory, thought still very much early X-Claim worship. Apparently this is a solo project by a member of Vacant State, which I can definitely see, thought keeping tot he faster side. I ordered this off a label in Canada, and it cost like $11, which is totally worth it.
3. Social Damage- Demo II
Social Damage did a tape last year under the name Blind X Justice, though unfortunately there ended up being a much more popular (thought much worse) band by the same name. The band plays Straight Ahead worshiping fast hardcore, much like bands like Free Spirit, Freedom and Word On the Street, though much better. The tape is really short, but very memorable. Hoping these guys do an EP soon. 
4. Protester
Protester was a tape that I released, but fuck it, it rules. A one person side project that's not too different from No Tolerance and Violent Reaction. Fast, pissed off straight edge hardcore. Always have a soft spot for aggressive sounding edge bands, and this was my jam. I also did the cover art, which I may say is the most hardline edge art since the 90's. Now a full band and working on more shows and tours. Real stoked on these guys.
5. Correction
Correction is a 2 person sXe side project from Sweden, with members of Sectarian Violence and Anchor. Musically lending more favorably to raw punk ala Mob 47. I one time described them as "Anti-Cimex wearing varsity jackets," which will make sense when you hear it. Raw punk with mosh parts, hell yea. Working on a new tape or EP currently.


Honorable Mentions:
Sectarian Violence LP, Sickoids EP, Coke Bust LP, Criminal Damage LP, Barge 7", Green Beret 7", Power Trip LP, Rival Mob LP, Night Birds 7", Gas Rag 7"+ demo, Weekend Nachos LP, Out Cold LP, The Repos (aborted Ropes LP) tape, Stab 7", Broken Prayer LP, Razorheads demo, Lude Boys/ Combat Zone tape, Savageheads demo, Last Words LP, Abuse LP, Negative Degree 7"

Best Reissues:
Abused - Radio Raheem did a great LP reissue of the 7", demo and an unreleased live track on a crazy deluxe LP. Came in a booklet filled with art and photos in a sleeve that's so big, it won't fit in your record box. Essential, one of the NYHC greats.
7 Seconds - Lifeline reissued the first 3 7 Seconds 7"s, and even did a cool boxed set. I love a well done reissue, and they really went all out on this. Recreating the art perfectly, doing some limited colors for the collectors, and even throwing in an insert with a note from Kevin Seconds inside. I like that they didn't just collect these on some LP, but kept them in their original format.
Anti-Cimex Nada Nada reissued the Anti Cimex 7"s packed with random little inserts and notes. These records have been out of print forever, and a collection that is over priced and really ugly. The cover for Raped Ass has to be one of my favorite record covers, even though it was most likely stolen from a newspaper or something.

Anticipated Releases for 2014:
Oblivionation 12" EP + 7", Peacebreakers 7", The Flex LP, Boston Strangler LP, Ugly Parts LP, Correction EP, Battle Ruins LP, Violent Future 7"

Record Reviews (Fall/Winter 2012)

Ok, so I know it's been a while since I've made a record reviews post. As you can tell from the rest of the blog, I have been busy with art shows. I also went on a tour w/ Coke Bust and Sick Fix, and did some traveling to Chicago. I wanted to have this finished by the end of the year, but while updating it, I accidentally deleted the whole thing. So in starting over, I also added more current record purchases, but of course like a true addict, I have enough new records for another post...

5": 
 
Vaccine- Crimes in Blood (Painkiller Records)
5" record? What is this the 90's? Shockingly my record player could actually play it. I like Vaccine I don't love Vaccine. I thing a lot of their songs are fast, but not that interesting. However the lyrical theme and simple, yet effective layout really makes this cool. If you get just one 5" record this year, make it this.

7":
 
Coke Bust/ Vaccine (Refuse Records | Drugged Conscience Records)
Arguably the  two fastest band sin straight edge today have teamed up on a split to coincide with both bands' separate European tours (though a US re-press is out now). This is Coke Bust's first new material with their new guitar player, and it fits right in with their other material. If anything, it sounds a little heavier, but the hyper fast riffs and catchy choruses are all there. Hopefully this is where the LP they're working on will go. Vaccine produce their standard fair of fast blurred out hardcore.Vaccine to me was always good but not great. Well matched split of the 2 fastest edge bands in the biz.

 
Altered Boys- s/t (Katorga Works Records)
Altered Boys are basically the only band from NJ I care about. They channel the early 2000's era of HC, when bands were more into the early 80's than youth crew and the terrible 90's. A comparison to Shark Attack or Knife Fight wouldn't be too far off. Despite the impression that the pink artwork may imply, this is straight forward hardcore. They have another (less pink) 7" coming real soon on Deranged, so get into it.

 
Bloodkrow Butcher- Anti War E.P. (Side Two Records)
Where did this come from, bought this on a whim with the Green Beret LP, and this rules. I know nothing about them, except that they're from Boston, but sound like they're from Finland in the 80's. Fuzzy distorted fast d-beat styled hardcore punk, done well! This is great, if they have any other records out, I want them.

 
Noose- Depraved Indifference (Refuse Records)
Despite their disasterous European tour, and the tidal wave of Facebook drama that followed, this new Noose record is solid. The guitars sound a lot more full (which I thought was lacking in the past), and the vocals have some distortion as well, which gives this a more harsh sound. They even cover one of my favorite Ripcord songs. Lyrically, the militant vegan straight edge thing doesn't do much for me, but most bands that go that route are terrible metalcore. If you liked Noose's previous records, this is probably their best.

 
Kremlin- Will You Feed Me? (Hardware Records)
I know this band has Ivan, the drummer of School Jerks, but is a bit more European in it's early 80's HC punk influences. Some of these sound like they could have been on a comp like Killed by Death or Bloodstains Across... I really don't like the cover art. I guess this is kinda in style, but purposely bad drawings will never win me over. This is good, not great.

 
Violent Reaction- s/t (Static Shock Records | Quality Control Records)
Oh shit, their demo was amazing, and their 7" makes that look tame. Violent Reaction is a one person side project that sounds like if the Out Cold/ Voorhees split LP was one band. Basically early 80's Boston influence, no bullshit. Great record, try to find it while you can, because it's worth the import costs from the UK. New LP will be out on Painkiller, so jump on this now!

 
No Tomorrow- Nuclear Exposure (Sorry State Records)
This North Carolina band reminds me of the fast crust bands from the early 2000's, like Severed Head of State, Born Dead Icons and World Burns to Death. Though not touching the intensity of those, granted that in 2 songs, it's hard to make too much of a statement, this is real goody though. I like the screen printed artwork, it seems like there aren't many records like that anymore. Includes a digital download.

 
Spine- Subhuman (Bad Teeth Recordings)
Spine's demo reminded me of the early Harms Way stuff, maybe because they had 2 original members of HW. I remember describing them to a friend as Infest covering Outburst. The 7" goes more in a heavier power violence direction. I hear some Rorscharch and Assuck in there, but still some NYHC at times. It's definitely hard hitting, no doubt about that. For a band with members spread across 2 different states, they're surprisingly active.

 
Unruled- s/t (Schitzophrenic Records)
Unruled was Canada's first D-beat band. Maybe, I don't know, all I know is this band was from the early 80's and heavily influenced by Discharge. It seemed like that style was more copied in Europe, so it's cool that this is an early example of it across the pond, as they say. I'm pretty sure the original 7" was only 3 songs, some bonus trax from the same session, so more bang for your buck. I don't know what else they released in the 80's, but I always thought this EP was great. Apparently they reformed and did an LP somewhat recently though...

 
Rational Animals- Gabrielle b/w Eating My Words (Cowabunga Records)
Record #2 in Cowabunga's Sick Club releases. I really like that they used the old Sub Pop singles style layout. The 2 songs are good, "Gabrielle" being my favorite of the 2. They really capture that oddball sort of Flipper meets later Black Flag style. That probably goes over most people's heads, but I think it's cool. If you like their other records (especially the LP), get this!

 
The Narcs- Long Hot Summer (Cowabunga Records)
This is a weird one. If you've been following the "Rot-Core" scene lately, bands like Rational Animals, Insubordinates, Bad Taste, etc... this fits in with those. Bands influenced by oddball KBD punk and early rock n roll. It's cool, but not something I'd listen to repeatedly.

 
Clear- s/t (BBB Records)
I caught Clear in the spring at a show in Philly. I thought they were real good, if not the best band on the show. I found out later that they had the singer of Have Heart , which had I known previously, probably wouldn't have watched them. Luckily I did, because this record is cool. Standard youth crew influenced HC, though in the grand scheme of modern youth crew, this is way up there. Every time I've seen them afterwards has been a different line up, so who knows who's really in this band, either way this is cool.

 
DNA- Destructive New Age (BBB Records)
Another band I knew nothing about, but got on a whim.  If I had heard they were members of Cruel Hand, and other bands like that, I probably wouldn't have. Though there's some heavy Corrosion of Conformity influenced HC here, similar to Direct Control and early Double Negative.  I like this, but I feel like most people who would fully appreciate it won't check it out, so here's your heads up.

 
MFP- s/t (Painkiller Records)
Some older dudes from MA play some fast mean hardcore. Not too unlike Sheer Terror, but with a Boston slant. Nothing really new here, but an enjoyable 7" none the less.

 
Government Flu- Holes (Yama Dori Records)
Government Flu has a few records out already, and I was able to see them in Poland a few years ago. This is ther most recent record, and probably their best. They fit in with bands like Anti You, Citizens Patrol and other early 80's USA HC influenced Euro bands. The cover art is awesome, and has a hold die cut in the center, which lines up with the hole in the record itself. Fucking cool!

 
Weekend Nachos- Watch You Suffer (A389 Records)
A little 2 song teaser 7" released in time for a389 Fest. Weekend Nachos' songwriting has evolved over this year from power violence to to more thick heavy hardcore, reminiscent of Left For Dead. The title track in particular is hard as nails. The next LP will turn some heads for sure. Includes a digital download.

 
Broken Prayer- Wow b/w Pull a Kazynski (Not Normal Tapes)
This is a single for Broken Prayer's LP (see review below). You get 1 song off the LP and one exclusive song. I suppose this came out before the LP, but I got them both at the same time, so it's really only one new song to my ears. Either way, it's a real cool release, with a screened dust sleeve (available in multiple colors).

 
Freedom- United States of Mind (Lost Time Records)
Much like Free Spirit, this band takes the Straight Ahead influence, and uses it as a template for how a band should sound. Apparently this has members of Face Reality, but I like it more. Short to the point hc in the late 80's NYHC sense. This is their demo, but re-recorded with a new song and an AF cover. All fitting on a one sided 7" that has a screened B-side. Really awesome record, track it down for sure.

 
Rot In Hell- Termini Terrae (Dark Empire Records)
I had seen Rot In Hell in Leeds when I went to Europe 2 years ago.  Since then, they've gone on to release records on Deathwish and a389 Records. They play the "Holy Terror" style of HC, similar to early Integrity and Catharsis. While I generally don't follow that style too close, what drew me to this record was that their new vocalist is Lecky from Voorhees. So being a band I already enjoyed, adding a singer who's bands I enjoyed made me get this.Side A is 2 song sof what you'd expect, however, Side B... holy shit! Starts off sounding like Metallica, then sounds like Slay and ends by sounding like Judge. I've listened to that one song so many times. Seriously ridiculous. I don't think it says Rot In Hell on this record at all, but try to find it for sure, because it fucking rules!

 
Caged Animal- s/t
Took a chance on this one, despite knowing nothing about the band. Something just stood out to me, possibly the graffiti logo. Glad I did, because this is some short fast violent sounding music. Reminds me of Duress, or some 625 releases from the early 2000's. There's even a rap intro ala Spazz's La Revancha LP. This rules, give it a shot!

 
Razar- Stamp Out Disco
A late 70's classic from this Australian band. These 2 songs are great. I had come across this band somehow a while ago, probably an mp3 blog, but this reissue is great. Sure it may be a bit pricey for 2 songs, but they're both awesome. Also I know literally nothing about old Australia punk, but if other bands sounded like this, I hope more reissues happen.



  
Violent Future- s/t (Slasher Records)
Not to be confused with their demo 7" that just came out on painkiller, this is 4 new tracks. I think where the demo had this sloppy, but good quality, this record really steps up the tightness. I love their style of UK82 style mid-paced HC, ran through an old Boston/X-Claim filter. The recording quality is similarly a little blown out, and the artwork is top notch. This record is great over all.


 
F.O.D.- Chinese Food demo (Who Cares Records)

This is a vinyl pressing of one of F.O.D.'s early demos from 1982. Flag Of Democracy was straddling the melodic punk meets fast hardcore punk, even in the earlydays. I love FOD's early material, and this fits right in with their Love Songs 7". I had never heard these songs before, so I was very stoked to after all of these years. If you like Adrenalin O.D. and haven't checked out FOD, I know a reissue of their first LP just came out. I know this 7" was limited to 300 and from a French label, but try to find it.

 
Altered Boys- s/t #2 (Deranged Records)
Altered Boys recorded both of their 7"s at the same time, so the sound quality is exact to the first. These songs I feel are their strongest. The songs vary from fast stompers and fast blasts of HC. By far my favorite NJ band in years. Definitely pick this one up.
Fun Fact: I did the cover layout on this




12":
 
Green Beret- Violence is Their Currency (Side Two Records)
After their demo in 2010, Green Beret laid dormant, but in the mean time became a full band and recorded this awesome EP.  Continuing their style of high caliber d-beat, mainly influenced by Totalitar. This LP rips. My favorite song "Vultures" has a mid paced Motorhead vibe, that will make you want to listen to it on repeat. Great, Great record!

 
Prisoner Abuse- s/t (Painkiller Records)
Another DFJ / CC project here, and those 2 continue their streak of perfect bands. This one has a Boston Strangler vibe, though a little heavier, recruiting the former singer of Think I Care. Heavilly influenced by Boston hardcore from the early 80's, and similar to Boston in the early 2000's. This LP is great, hopefully this isn't just a one off project. Oddly, it credits some of these songs being written way back in 2004. I almost don't wanna know all of the shelved CC/DFJ projects from the past 10 years, because they're all good.

 
Mindset- Leave No Doubt (React! Records)
The most highly anticipated straight edge record of 2012? maybe. Musically, I always thought Mindset's riffs were directive of a lot of other bands in the genre, thought they really step it up on this record. The title track itself is a modern classic, that I can see people stage diving and finger pointing to. If you were on the fence about Mindset, let this record convince you. They are also without a doubt the best current live band in HC. Art layout is very clean, but totally works, reminding me of a lot of the more simple REV designs. Includes a digital download.

 
Sick Fix- Vexed (A389 Records)
Sick Fix's last piece of vinyl came out about 4 years ago, in the mean time they've done numerous tours and changed the lineup a little. 1/2 of these songs appeared on a 2010 demo tape, but sound more full and heavy here. I think this record shows off Michelle's vocals well, and I thought on previous recordings they were not the same as they were live. Musically they continue to balance heavier 90's bands like Left For Dead with fast 90s style powerviolence. They also re-record the song "One Third," which means it's now been on every one of their releases. Awesome. Includes a digital download.

 
Manpig- The Grand Negative (Deep Six Records)
In a weird turn of events, this was recorded in 1992, then lost, then re-recorded over the course of the 22 years. Why? well, why not I guess. I'd rather see it out now, than have it lost in time. Oh should I mention that this band is just 2 members, but both of them were in INFEST! So what you get here is similar to a Low Threat Profile vibe, not re-inventing the wheel here, but definitely doing it more justice than others. This is real cool, and a must for obsessive Infest fans

 
Broken Prayer- s/t (Sorry State Records)
I had the fortune of seeing these guys on their recent tour. To be honest, had I not known a few of the members, I may not have checked them out, but I'm glad I did.  Musically, they seem to vary. There are moments of early 80's HC in there, and moments where they could be a Brit-pop group. The band consists of members of Civic Progress, Libyans, Noose, Manipulation and a ton more. Musically it's very diverse, especially with a keyboard in the band. This is one of those bands I would recommend to people who are sick of "generic hardcore." The cover art is weird, the music is weird, weird is good. Includes a digital download.
 
Bloody Hammer- s/t (Hardcore Victim Records)
Bloody Hammer is a new band from Australia, who fills the void that Criminal Damage left, of being highly influenced by UK82 oi bands. I hear elements of Blitz, The Last Resort and Combat 84. The singer used to be in Pisschrist, and I'm sure there's some other familiar faces, but this probably doesn't sound like any of their other bands. This is ridiculously good, and hasn't left my turntable in days. Get it in the US from Havoc; it's easily my favorite record of 2013 so far.

 
The Rival Mob- Mob Justice (Revelation Records)

Probably the most anticipated LP of the year is finally out, and definitely the most hyped REV release in what, 10 years?I'm sure everyone downloaded or bought that Mob Justice promo song, so there weren't many surprises here. All of the new songs from the tape were re-recorded as half of this LP, and sound a lot cleaner. Slightly more produced I suppose, but still good obviously. The intro is hard as nails, and get things off to a good start. Includes a digital download.

 
Magic Circle- s/t (Armageddon Label)
With members of Rival Mob, No Tolerance, Mental, Righteous Jams... you might be expecting one thing. However, what you get here is total Black Sabbath worship heavy metal. Despite most of the band being edge dudes, this is some serious stoner shit. A few songs were posted online like 2 years ago, and it was awesome that this finally came out. Definite fans of that NWOBHM sound, the music is mid paced, and the songs are long. If you're not head banging, you might be dead. It's awesome that dudes from HC bands can crank out something technically more complex. This is awesome, and I hope to see these guys live at some point. Includes a digital download.

 
Who Killed Spikey Jacket?- s/t (Total Fucker Records)
A friend called them "the Good Clean Fun of street punk."  Somewhat accurate, but in all reality, how serious does street punk ever take itself? Of course there's songs about beer, being punk, pogoing and (of course) spikey jackets. If you take your punk very serious, then this may not be the band for you. However, if you like to let loose, and just have some fun with your punk, then check this out. Stud your jacket, stud your face, do it today bastard!

 
Punch In The Face- Live On Radio K (Counterfeit Garbage Records)
PITF was an awesome band from the early 200's era HC scene. They did 2 7"s and an LP in their time. This LP collects the Live at Radio K session, which was released as a CDr (remember those?), with the b-side collecting demos, covers and comp songs. The live set had songs, which at the time were new and un-recorded yet for their LP. So obviously these sound different than the LP versions. A very good radio set though, well recorded and all. I actually had no idea they even did a demo, so hearign these songs for the first time was awesome. Everything they released is now out of print, so it's coolt hat this could potentially introduce new people to this awesome band. The labelt hat released this is also responsible for Counterfeit Garbage zine, and contains a zine sized insert with a retrospective, photos and discography info. Great package all around.



Demos / Tapes:
The Nukes (tape)
The Nukes released this tape at the end of summer, and I think it's one of the best demos of the year. I hear elements of early Black Flag, The FU's, Necros and Career Suicide. The singer's voice has that snotty vibe of CS to it. This fits in with bands like School Jerks and Birth Deformities, doing the early 80's CA style of punk well. Dumb cover art, but I display my tapes in a rack, so I'll only ever see the spine. Mine also came with a huge button that says "The Nukes Is Creeps" that now sits on my microwave. Great demo, hopefully we see some vinyl this year from them.

Hounds of Hate (tour tape)
The Hounds are back with a tape they made for a tour, that contains 3 songs for their LP, and a re-recording of a demo song. These songs are killer, and much better than their 7" songs (which were also good). This LP is going to be really good, and on Painkiller no less. They really capture that late 80's NYHC/ New Breed comp sound.

Chestnut Rd. (tape)
So if you read this blog regularly, you probably wouldn't think I'd ever write the phrase "check out this French pop-punk band." Welp, check out this French pop-punk band! Heavily influenced by early 90's UK pop-punk bands like Leatherface, they are named after a Broccoli song and cover Hooton 3 Car. I feel like those bands are highly under appreciated, and to have one band wear that influence so prominently is amazing. Hooton 3 Car is probably my favorite of that group, and I didn't think anyone would ever cover them (and well). I always get confused looks at record stores when I ask if they have any of their records. Seriously though, I don't care about 99% of the stuff masquerading as "pop-punk" these days, but this is an awesome demo for sure!

V/A- Joy Boy Mix part 3 (tape)
The Joy Boy Mix tapes are compiled by Omegas (who are absent from this one), they compile bands they like onto a comp. Which is a simple, yet cool idea for sure. A lot of stuff is exclusive to this, and some it is just weird. There's a lot of odd samples between songs which sort of ruins the flow a little for me. Standouts are: Free Spirit, Duress, Neo Cons, Altered Boys, Cardiac Arrest, Peacebreakers, Creem, Waste Management, Reckless Aggression

Abuse (tape)
Abuse are some young guns from Raleigh, NC playing very good power violence, in the style of the classics like Crossed Out, No Comment, Seige. Very fast, very tight, very angry. If these guys were from CA, they'd be huge already. 7" should be out any day now.

Last Words- Tied & Tour CS (tapes)
I had the pleasure of seeing Last Words in the winter on tour in NJ. I knew some of the members from Devour and Stripmines, so I knew this band would be good, but damn was I blown away. Marina is probably the most intimidating female singer I've ever seen. The demo was good, but the LP promo tape is amazing. Musically it reminds me of Stripmines a bit, but with a sort of Antidote and other early 80's NYHC bands feel. LP on To Live A Lie soon.

The Flex- Flexual Healing Vol. 1 (tape)
I love The Flex, I re-released their demo obviously. This new tape is basically a promo tape for their new 7". You get 2 new songs on here, plus 3 covers (Youth of Today, DYS, Breakdown). The recording quality on this is real raw and blown out, like Urban Blight. The new 7" is killer, can't wait to get a copy. This tape is great, from the cover art to the title.

Night Prowler- Psychopath (tape)
Fuck, I loved Night Prowler's first tape, "Crime Wave," but this new tape may be even better.More songs, same great production. I like the look of these tapes, like the old LP cover style tapes. Musically I get a strong Violent Minds vibe, of being influenced by old NY/Boston hc punk. I had heard this is a one man project from someone in Vacant State, but the cover has no info about that. I hope this project turns into a touring band, like Violent Reaction and Boston Strangler did. Or at the very least more tapes!

Lung Matter- Sever All Ties (tape)
I had seen Lung matter on tour last summer in Raleigh, and they were awesome. I thought their demo lacked something, but they agreed and said their EP would be better. Unfortunately that ended up being their last show, and the EP came out posthumously as this cassette. This is what they sounded like when Is aw them, which was

[BE-07] Wrong Decision- The US Tape

Wrong Decision is a new band from Belgium. On first listen, I was getting comparisons to 86 Mentality, Dead Stop, Insurance Risk and Commitment Crew. Straight forward early 80's style US hardcore, with burly vocals is what you should be expecting. Most of these songs will be on an upcoming 7", but there's some exclusives here. The A side give you 8 ripping hardcore tracks, the B side you'll have to experience first hand...

Limited to only 50 copies on pro duplicated blue cassettes, with printed sticker labels. (9 songs)
Check out the first song, "Crossed Limits" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_64lcdlUAU
Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com
http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel 

Also Available from: Sorry State, Grave Mistake

* This marks the first release that I've self-produced with my own professional duplicator, so note the lower price. However, since releasing my last tape, international shipping has gone up drastically. I based shipping rates off what other DIY labels are charging, so hopefully it works out for everyone's benefit.

Best of 2012

2012 was a weird year personally, though much better than 2011 for sure. This is the longest I've gone without being in a band, and I can't say I miss it terribly. My label released what I think were 3 totally killer tapes, and some big things planned for 2013. I got to go on tour with Sectarian Violence for 2 weeks in the summer. I also helped with opening a cool new punk venue in NJ with some friends, keep an eye out for more Warehouse Motor Club shows in 2013. It's also the first full year that I've had the same full time job in almost 5 years, which meant I could finally move out of my parents house. Assuming the world doesn't end on December 21, I'll be going on a weekend tour with Coke Bust and Sick Fix (the more things change, the more they stay the same). There were a lot of good releases there, and as you can see from the "honorable mentions" section, it was a hard choice.

*I have another reviews post that I'm working on currently, but I figured I would post this first. Some of the releases mentioned have no been reviewed yet, stick tight...*


Best 7"s of 2012:
1. No Tolerance- No Remorse, No Tolerance
2. Violent Reaction- s/t
3. Altered Boys- s/t
4. Hounds of Hate- No Redemption
5. Culo/ Tenement
It was a no brainer last year that No Tolerance's EP would be a scorcher, glad I got to see them a few times this year. Violent Reaction's demo was great, and this 7" was even better. Altered Boys continues being my favorite NJ band, even thought there is virtually no competition. Hounds of Hate won me over live, and I listen to this record a lot. The Culo/ Tenement split got here because it seemed like such a weird idea, but both bands really shine on here.

 
Best LPs of 2012:
1. Boston Strangler- Primative
2. Stripmines- Crimes of Dispassion
3. Shipwrecked- The Last Pagans
4. Birth Deformities- Suburbanized
5. Prisoner Abuse- s/t
Another no brainer, the Boston Strangler LP is amazing, got to see them a few times this year, and the new song they played is killer. Hope I don't have to wait 3 years for a new record. Stripmines I was also fortunate enough to see a few times before they broke up. This LP is a monster. Shipwrecked returned from relative obscurity with basically 2 LPs worth of songs on 1 LP. Brth Deformities released a 10", not a 12", sue me. Either way, it's a great mix of demo and new stuff with crazy cover art. The Prisoner Abuse LP came from nowhere, but with some familiar faces, and is right up there with the Boston Strangler stuff. Hopefully they play some more shows this year.


Best demos of 2012:
1. Oblivionation
2. Violent Future
3. Violent Outburst
4. The Flex
5. The Nukes
Ok, so I released the Oblivionation demo, but god damn, even if I didn't, it's seriously great. Violent Future's demo was so good that it got re-pressed as a 7". Great simple dumb oi influenced HC punk. Violent Outburst has members of Wasted Time, Socialcide, Mad World, Stripmines and a few more, and totally smokes. I also released the Flex demo, but again, it's real good. Great balance of mid paced and fast HARDcore from the UK. The Nukes did a demo I loved, and seemed like nobody is talking about. Hope they get the respect they deserve in 2013.


Best zines of 2012:
1. Chunks
2. Rumpshaker
3. Counterfeit Garbage
4. Pains
5. Excitement Level Zero
Chunks, for being short, and stubbornly opinionated really gets it. Short and sweet, but unfortunately I heard they're not doing any more after the next issue. That Rumpshaker zine was more like a book, crazy. The Mike Judge interviews are worth it alone. Very professional. Despite calling my old band "pop-punk," I still get every issue of Counterfeit Garbage. Pains was one I never got before, but put out a solid issue this year, hoping for more. Excitement Level Zero has a great cynical view, but yet highlights good bands. I feel like this guys calls out the shitty parts of the scene, and I like that.

Honorable Mentions:
Green Beret LP, Brain Killer 3rd 7", Power Trip 7", Outlast 7", Mindset LP, Sick Fix LP, Coke Bust/ Vaccine split 7",  Sectarian Violence 7" & demo, Sickoids LP, School Jerks LP, No Class LP II, Peacebreakers demo

Best Reissues:
Failure Face discography: Probably one of the best, and most overlooked band of the 90's power violence sound. Right up there with Infest and Dropdead for sure. This has been my "in a bad mood" soundtrack for years. There's a Youtube video of their reunion in Miami, and it's killer.
Agnostic Front- Live @ CBGBs: First of all, B9 did a limited version with red/white/blue vinyl. Already it wins, but between the set list and between song banter, it's a classic. No better HC live album I'd say. All that plus some sweet embossing on the cover really take it up a notch.
Discharge singles: Havoc reissued 5 crucial Discharge 7"s, all with exact re-created cover art. You need them all, but a collection LP is coming supposedly. I wish there was a special box set or something. but whatever.
Adrenalin O.D.- Let's Barbecue: Classic NJ hardcore gets a great reissue with some thick purple vinyl and slightly altered cover art. This is easily my favorite release by them
ManLiftingBanner- The Revolution Continues: Discography and 1 side of new material from what I consider the best Euro edge band. Definitely way faster than the average band in the 90's for sure. The new stuff is killer too.

Anticipated Releases for 2013:
Sectarian Violence LP, The Rival Mob LP, Hounds of Hate LP, Violent Reaction LP, Oblivionation 12" EP, The Flex 7", Altered Boys 2nd 7", Violent Future  7", Negative Degree 7", Culo LP