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

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

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

Record Reviews: Summer 2012

So I had a busy summer, hence no early/late summer posts, and just a general summer post. I went on tour with Sectarian Violence for 2 weeks, went to This is Hardcore, moved into a new apartment, and released 2 tapes on my label (more info on the second one real soon). I also went to the beach zero times, due to new tattoos. There's some real bangers in this chunk, as well as some real stinkers. I'm not one to pull any punches, but I feel like I was less tolerant of crap this time around. Deal with it, or don't release bad records. 

7":

Impalers- s/t [demo] (No Way Records / Beach Impediment)
Impalers is a side project of some Mammoth Grinder dudes. I'm not really a fan of MG, but this is some raging d-beat. Some might say Motorcharge (Motorhead / Discharge), and they'd be right. This was originally their demo I believe, but there's no mention of that I found on the record. This is cool, but not blowing me away.


the Ropes- s/t (Youth Attack Records)
If you read my blog, you know how I feel about Youth Attack and their associated artists. However, I put that aside, because unless you've been under a rock for the past year, the Repos reunited under the name The Ropes. And in case you're deaf, the Repos were one of the best bands playing in the mid-2000's (this is not an opinion, it is a fact). So I had downloaded a few Ropes demos online and was less than blown away, sounded like the Repos on the wrong RPM. This 7"was originally self released I guess, and YA decided to re-release it with their usual extravagant cover art. Musically, they're almost at Repos speed, though not quite there. The layout is just plain stupid. No band name on the front, lyric booklet that's hard to read, the cover folds weird, and looks stupid. Am I the only one who thinks paying $8+ for a 7" is stupid? Fuck this label. Ropes, keep trying...


Pukeoid- s/t (Not Normal Records)
Pukeoid is a band from the Indiana/Chicago area I think. Musically I would say they fit with bands like Raw Nerve and Culo (having members of both bands share art duties on the cover) from that area. Musically, I'd say it's also akin to No Class or the Ropes (not the  Repos). So I mean if you follow the mid-west USA scene, all of those comparisons are compliments. This is cool, and the record is pink. Is it too predictable to have pictures of people puking on the cover, or if it wasn't there, would you be disappointed? I can't decide.


Backslider- Maladapted (To Live A Lie Records)
Backslider are back with another 7" before they headed off to Europe for a few weeks earlier this summer. BS has really evolved as a band, which honestly I kinda wrote off for only having 2 people. The song writing on here has gotten more technical and diverse. There's some parts that have late 90's style metalcore leads, and some slower Black Sabbath style riffage, all while packaged in the short fast and loud format. This is real good, if you're into pv/grind, you need to get this for sure!


Hounds of Hate- No Redemption (Katorga Works)
Hounds of Hate are a new straight edge band from outside of Pittsburgh, PA. Musically, they seem to be a bit slow paced from what you'd usually associate with a straight edge band. Soundimg more like the slower Cro-Mags songs, and with a definite late 80's NYHC slant.  At first, I wasn't too into it, then seeing them live on tour, I was sold. There's some real hard mosh parts here, without cheating some metal riffs and double bass pedal. I'm way into this. Apparently they're working on an LP now, which I hope will also rule.


On Parade- s/t (Desensitized Records)
This sXe band from CA flew under the radar, and I can't figure out why. Generally if a band is named after a Straight Ahead song, I will give them a shot. Glad I did in this case, because this rules. This sounds a lot like Nightstick Justice, real raw blown out recording, but fast no frills HC. I guess in the world of straight edge, you need to be on a cool label and get hype, but this blows anything that's currently on any hype label out of the water (I won't name names, but you know). Cover art isn't really selling it, but try to find this.


Male Nurses- Wanna Play Doctor b/w GI Jock (Cowabunga Records)
This is the first release on Cowabunga Records' "Sick Club," which is a singles club like the old Sub Pop Records club. These 2 songs were supposed to be on a 7" on No Way that never got released, and the rest of the record got scrapped. I was a bit skeptical, since it had been like 2 years since their last record, but the song writing is on point on here. Some real complex structures (while still being a punk band). Reminds me a lot of D.I., and it seems like the surfy guitar tone is mostly gone or buried. Wish there were more songs...


Slugz- Empty Space (Cowabunga Records)
Slugz is a band from Richmond, VA. I know they have a few 7"s, but this is the first I've gotten by them. You get 3 tracks of songs that show an influence ranging from garage punk to early 80's CA punk. Reminds me of that band, the Blinds from Germany (anyone remember them?). This is pretty cool, and I think there's a member or Dry Spell in this, which would make sense.


Brain Killer- s/t #3 (Framework Records / Vinyl Rites Records)
Brain Killer's 3rd and possibly last 7" is a killer. Not straying too far from their usual raw punk influenced by Japanese HC sound. The recording is dirty as hell, but still listenable. It sounds like there's just a track of just feedback. I ran into the singer on tour and asked, and he said there were like 3 tracks of just feedback. Well, there you have it kids, that's why your band sucks and Brain Killer rules... more feedback tracks. I really hope this isn't their last record, because this is great.


Love Potion- Intimacy (RSR Records)
First of all I want to throw out a policy that if your band names a song "Ejaculate With Hate," I will buy your record. Love Potion's 2nd and final 7" only has 3 songs, but all are killer.  Riff heavy Japanese influenced HC, reminds me a lot of World Burns to Death/ Severed Head of States when both bands were at their respective peaks. Great record.


Power Trip- s/t (Lockin Out Records)
While I generally run hot and cold on the Lockin Out hype, this band really stands out. As opposed to the usual LOC sound, these guys have a more crossover metal vibe (there's even a Prong cover). This style is often tried, and 9 times out of 10 fails. This however is worth your time if, like me, you grew up on that style of metal. I hear their next record is on Southern lord, which makes a lot of sense. Definitely check this out.


Beware- Won't Get The Best Of Me (Back To Back Records)
Beware had a promising 4 song demo (3 of those songs were re-recorded on this), so I was stoked to see what they did on the 7". Musically they remind me a lot of the tail end of the youth crew bands, like Mouthpiece and Chain of Strength. The vocals are very COS sounding in particular. The recording is a definite step up from their demo, but I noticed something really odd... All of the songs have the same theme, of someone breaking edge/ dropping out of the scene/ losing that person as a friend. I mean that's some common territory in HC, but seems real weird that every song is about that. Despite that, this is probably the best of the Back To back bands, and the best HC band from Philly in a long time. Expect big things...


Tremors- Island Songs  (Six Feet Under Records)
When I was in Europe in 2010 w/ Coke Bust, we played with these guys in the UK, and they were great. Real raw fast hardcore punk, with some modern touches. Their demo was real cool. The new record seems to definitely go a more modern HC route, reminding me of the early stuff of Bracewar or Ceremony. The cover art is also really bad, and boring. Bummer.


Divine Right- Pray For Me (Residue Records)
Picked this up with the Sickoids LP, not really knowing what to expect. The description said Negative Approach, but I guess maybe there's another band called Negative Approach. This sounds more in line with slow heavy bands like Slices. Not my thing, probably would appeal to the Youth Attack crowd though.


Desolation- Rest In Panic (Prank Records)
I got this from Prank while ordering the Forward LPs. What I was expecting was some raging Japanese influenced HC/ punk. What I got was a boring 3rd rate version of Tragedy. Pass.



Outlast- s/t (Harvcore Records)
Outlast, the only straight edge band in NJ, return for their 3rd release, and by far their best. They play fast/ hard youth crew influenced HC, that will disappoint fans of Floorpunch. The recording quality is a little more raw than their past efforts (which I thought were a bit too clean). Everything about this record though is a huge step up from their previous record, and I think the addition of a second guitar really fills out the sound well. I know everyone's real hyped to check out that new Mindset LP, but this will tide you over in the mean time. STRAIGHT EDGE!


Mikey Erg!- Fucifer (Bloated Kat Records)
Mikey Erg had been doing his solo stuff since the Ergs split. I was a fan of the Ergs, so it was cool to see Mikey play those songs solo live. He also did new songs. I picked up this red flexi square at the show, and was surprised at what I got. Mikey plays all the instruments, but it's all fast hardcore/ punk songs. Think more like the Ergs' "Thrash Compacter" 7"s stuff. This stuff is real good, definitely not what I was expecting, and probably more my style than the rest of his solo stuff. Very cool.


Weekend Nachos/ Lack of Interest (Deep Six Records)
When Weekend Nachos play fast, they're killer. When they play slow, I'm not as interested. Luckily they decided to throw 5 fast songs on here, and they're all great. Lack of Interest has been around for forever, and recently started releasing new material. Granted it's not as solid as their classic "Trapped Inside" LP, but it's still real good. It seems liek they have 2 singers now, and both switch off on songs, which is kinda weird. The cover art looks weird too, like a magnet your mom would have in her office. WN take the cake on here, but great overall.


the Afternoon Gentlemen/ Cyborg (RSR Records)
Cyborg's demo was real cool, but this was my first exposure to The Afternoon Gentlemen. TAG are more on the grid side of power violence, and have the kinda screeched vocals, metal tone guitar and super fast drums. Not really my cup of tea. Cyborg boast half of Weekend Nachos, but is more along the lines of WN's earlier material. It's power violence with goofy lyrics. While really good, doesn't really stack up to WN. The cover art on this record is really sick, and has a obi strip for the band names, but the cover itself is this amazing wrap around painting.


Extortion/ Completed Exposition (RSR Records)
Man, I love Extortion, but what happened? I mean the band had like 9000 records, but this is definitely their worst material. What is with the dancy intro? The drums and guitars just sound off, like someone wanted to play faster, but couldn't. Completed Exposition I know nothing about, but they have 2 bass players and no guitar (which actually isn't that terrible). You can skip this record though.

LP:
 

Birth Deformities- Suburbanized MLP (Cowabunga Records)
So this is a 10", but it's basically like an LP,  sue me. After what I thought was the best demo of 2011, Birth Deformities step it up on their first vinyl output. There's about half new, half demo songs here. The recording quality is a lot more raw, and faster. The guitar unfortunately doesn't have that same tone as the demo (which I loved). This thing is great, I really love this band (probably more than Culo even). The cover art is obviously ridiculous, as you can see above.


Sickoids- s/t (Residue Records)
Sickoids is a newish band based out of Philly, with members of Witch Hunt and Government Warning/ Direct Control. Musically leaning more towards Witch Hunt, but with a heavy Crucifix influence. They're musically more interesting and complex than your average "crust" or "raw punk" band, though definitely fit within the context of those bands. This is one of the best LPs this year, and anyone who saw them live on their US tour will agree. Unfortunately they just played their last show for a long time (if ever), since all of the members are leaving Philly for various parts of the country.


Failure Face- Discography 1993-1996 (Give Praise Records)
Failure Face may be my favorite 90's hardcore band. If they were based out of California, they would probably have been grouped in with the power violence legends.  They existed at the same time as Infest, and definitely channeled the same influences. The music is fast and heavy. The intro to "Life" starts the LP, and is harder than any NYHC band's intro. The lyrics are hateful, negative and self loathing. The perfect soundtrack for having a bad day. This reissue compiles all of their recorded output, previously released as "Complete Failure" with a live set. There's an extensive booklet with a history of the band, photos and lyrics.  This LP is perfect, and a great way to keep this band on people's radar. Also, they just did a few reunion shows to celebrate this, and the videos I saw were killer. "Fuck You, I Came To See Failure Face!"


School Jerks- s/t (Grave Mistake Records)
If you're not familiar with School Jerks already, I feel bad for you. They've got 3 other vinyl releases and a few tapes. I was really looking forward tot his LP, since the 7"s always left me wanting more, and was not let down at all. SJ really cracked the early Black Flag sound, and pull it off better than a lot of pathetic imitators. There's also a hit of Necros in there too. The vocals have the snotty, raspy slurred quality to them, and luckily they've omitted the lyrics again, so I have no idea what the songs are about. Awesome cover art, awesome colored vinyl choice. All around awesome LP. If you think that shitty band OFF! is good, buy this and see what real hardcore/ punk not played by old assholes sounds like.


Trauma- s/t (Feral Ward Records)
Trauma is a side project band of 2 of the Tragedy guys. Granted I could care less about Tragedy in 2012, but generally speaking, they tend to crank out some cool side projects. I had heard it was short and fast songs, so it piqued my interests. This falls somewhere between Deathreat and Warcry, and reminds me a lot of that band Repercussions from a few years back.  I remember hearing either demos or these tracks a long time ago on a Myspace page, and basically forgot about them until this LP that just came out, so I'm not sure when this was recorded. It's real good though, I'm into it, some raging d-beat for our ear holes.


Kuro- 1983-1985
Kuro was a band from Japan in the 80's. Musically along the lines of GISM, mixing metal with punk, but in a manic way that only the Japanese can pull off. This is a bootleg, but a very well made bootleg The insert has a full history of the band, and a list of the other bootlegs. You'll never find an original version of their records, and a legit reissue probably won't ever happen. If you like Japanese HC at all, you need to check this out because it's really well done and rules.


No Class- Keine Klasse II (Deranged Records)
Keine Klasse I was awesome, so obviously I picked up #II. Unfortunately the same thing I thought about the first, in that the music rules, but the cover art is terrible. This time looking likes some Dio era Sabbath record. Gatefold cover, with full colored church windows, also the lyrics are in a display font and hard to read. All that aside, the music does indeed rule. They re-recorded the 2 songs from the demo that weren't re-recorded for the first LP here as well. "Burning Bridges" particularly sounds great here. This actually sounds closer to sounding like the Repos than the Repos can even pull off. Easily a top 5 of 2012 contender.


Hard Skin- We're The Fucking George: Singles 1978-1981
 Not familiar with Hard Skin yet? Get your head out of your arse, you cunt! Here's a great introduction to the band, with some real anthems on it that were later re-recorded on their LPs. "We Are the Wankers" and "Make My Tea" are pretty much live staples. To call Hard Skin a joke band doesn't give them enough credit. They also happen to be one of the best oi bands in a long time, in a scene bogged down with shitty bar rock. They were easily one of my favorite sets at This is Hardcore, especially because the crowd was not into them, and they made fun of them. Just buy all of their records, really.


Agnostic Front- Live at CBGB's (Bridge 9 Records)
Bridge 9 has been getting some killer reissues under their belt, while at the same time releasing some terrible new records by these old bands. This probably goes down as the HC best live record. Between the songs and live banter, it's perfect. You get a good mix of the first 3 (4?) records here, though heavily featuring the Victim In Pain LP (best HC LP? I think so!) in the set list. Bridge 9 had the foresight to make the perfect vinyl color for this, red/white and blue split vinyl. PERFECT! The B9 version also has embossed letters, which makes the whole package real cool. If you don't have it already, here's your chance!


The Guns- s/t (Smog Veil Records)
The Guns were an early 80's Cleveland punk band. This double LP collects all of their recorded output; which spans unreleased songs, comps, demo, live and practice tracks. I probably would have been ok with the first LP, as the 2nd is mostly practice/live and not as interesting, but useful for completeists I guess. This band would be a major influence on a lot of the Cleveland hc/ punk scene, particularly the Non-Commercial Records scene. Apparently these guys were like 15 when they started, and it has that raw 80's youthful rage. It's definitely a cool collection worthy of a reissue, with a killer Vince Rancid cover illustration.


Forward- Just Go Forward to Death (Prank Records)
Forward- What's The Meaning of Love? : Singles Collection (Prank Records)
As the title would suggest, this is a collection of Forward's EPs on one convenient LP.Those 7"s are close to impossible to find, as they were all released by Japanese labels, some over 10 years ago by now. Forward is a band that i hold sort of dear to my heart. They were the first Japanese HC band I ever was able to catch live, and really blew me away. While they weren't my introduction to Japanese HC, they definitely strengthened my love and respect for the scene. The cool thing about this collection is that it spans the band's discography, not just all early material. You get a nice mix here, and some early versions of songs that would later appear on LPs.
If I was forced to pick a favorite Forward LP, this may be it (or at least in the top 3). Fast raging straight forward Burning Spirits style HC from members of Death Side. While the flirt with some weird elements like harmonica and female backup vocals, they stay truer to the BS style than their peers in Paintbox. Also "What's The Meaning of Love?" on this version is superior to the previously mentioned collection. I think this is the first time this was issued on vinyl, since I think the original was just a CD release.

DEMO:
The Rival Mob- "Mob Justice" promotional mix tape (tape)
The Mob continues to rule all on this new tape of songs that will be on their upcoming LP on Revelation Records (I think we were all shocked to hear that). Unfortunately the tape I have is different from the rip that was online, so it doesn't have the intro and "Boot Party," 2 crucial jams for sure. The other songs are killer, you even get a cover (Blitz) and goofy track (Phil Anselmo gibberish) much like the HC4HC mixtape. These were supposed to be #'d out of 500, but mine was not.

Negative Degree  (tape)
From the unlikely location of Denver, CO; Negative Degree unleashes a killer demo here. This would have fit in perfectly in the mid-2000's at a No Way Fest, when a lot more bands were playing the stripped down early 80's style. The guitar tone is clean, but dirty, similar to the Shipwrecked LP. Musically, I see a real early Articles of Faith/ pre-Revolution Summer DC scene influence. This demo is great, and just got re-pressed as a 7" in Europe in case you can't find the tape version.

Violent Outburst (Tension Head Records) (pro-tape)
Violent Outburst is a new band from VA with members of Wasted Time/ Socialcide and Mad World. More or less what you'd expect from a band with those members, to be raw, fast and raging. I get a real early Discharge vibe, but this is no d-beat clone, think more like Manipulation. This rules, I must have listened to this like 5 times in a row. I like the recent crop of band with "violent" in their name, it fits the negativity of modern times. 10 people got shot a block away from where I work last week.

War X Games (tape)
W X G is a new band from Baltimore with members of Deep Sleep and Mindset. The music is thick, fast and heavy; sort of like Haymaker. The vocals (same as Deep Sleep) however, are more punk sounding. I could see these guys and Sick Fix fitting on the same show really well, since they have a similar heavy approach to straight edge. My only gripe is that the solos/leads really sound overdubbed (which they obviously were). Otherwise, it's a really good demo, and I'm sure you'll be hearing more from them.

ACxDC- The Second Coming (tape)
This band has been generating some buzz in the power violence scene, so I wanted to check them out, but all I could find was this tape of their 2nd 7". I believe the band broke up, and got back together, with this being their return record. Musically it's pretty standard fastcore, but lyrically it's unfortunately also standard fastcore dopey lyrics. I don't get why this genre of music puts no effort into their lyrics and instead makes jokes and quotes movies. You play angry music, you probably have something to be angry about. This sucks.

Barge- Lose  (tape)
Barge is a new band from Richmond, VA. They remind me a lot of the 2nd Mind Eraser LP, in that they play some thick and heavy hardcore. This is real cool, recommended for people who are into slower riff heavy hardcore. I'm into it.


Lung Matter- First Demo (tape)
I caught Lung Matter on tour while in Raleigh, and they absolutely destroyed. They had a slightly different lineup on this tape (now having 2 members of Stripmines), but it's still good. My copy was copied poorly, which is kind a bummer. They just recorded a 7", which if their live set is any indication, will be killer. This tape doesn't do that justice.


ZINE:
Rumpshaker #6
To call this a zine doesn't do this justice, it's more like a DIY magazine. The layout is very clean, and has a very well made perfect bound spine. Rumpshaker is a zine I remember from my early punk days in the late 90's/ early 2000's, and it's good to see it back. The main reason you should buy this is for the Mike Judge interviews. Rarely do you see any interviews with him, let alone ones that will go this in depth. It's real nice to see him not bitter, just basically a calmed down old man who has no interest in rehashing the past (unlike 99% of the NYHC scene of the late 80's). There's also some great articles and interviews. Even if you're not into the bands, the interviews are very personal and are interesting. The article against dudes in sandals I 100% support as well. Great zine, definitely pick up a copy, because #7 may be another 10 years away.

Chunks #6
Chunks is my current favorite. I love their no-nonsense approach and I have a similar taste to them in terms of bands. This may be their best issue: Shipwrecked, No Tolerance and Boston Strangler interviews.  All real good, always asking the tough questions. Calling out DFJ for that Violent Minds LP sounding like shit. Asking Ben from BS about hanging out in dance clubs. You don't this hard hitting journalism anywhere else damnit. Short and sweet interviews, all in like 6 pages. Can't recommend it any higher.