Pointless Fest review AKA: I Hate the Kids

I had originally planned to do a full review of all the bands I caught, and recount the events of the past weekend. However, if you've been reading various messageboards lately, you may have heard about a riot at this year's Pointless Fest. I'm not going to spread rumors, just stick to an account of what I saw.

THURSDAY
Ray, Katy, and me got there a little late, and totally missed Carpenter Ant. The only thing I have by them is their first 7", which kinda sucks, but I hear they got a lot better. Got there in the middle of Witch Hunt. I unfortunately wasn't able to get any pictures of them, since I couldn't stalk out a good spot. Witch Hunt recently added a new drummer, and their old drummer moved to second guitar. Their new stuff is really really good, I didn't get a chance to pick up their new LP though due to the fest ending early. They ended with the song, "Twenty Five" which reminds me a lot of the Degenerics' "Send in the Clones."


Fighting Dogs were next. I had seen them a bunch of times, and they've always been really good. Since recording their LP they've added a new guitar player and bass player. I guess I should mention that the second guitar player is female and handles half of the vocal duty. Pretty awesome stuff, I picked up the CD of their newer demo.


No Hope For the Kids was the main reason I was willing to venture to Philly on a Thursday. Musically, NHFTK is very melodic punk, from Denmark, that's extremely catchy. They flew out just to play this fest, so I knew that if I didn't go I may never get to see them. Aside for a little argument between members at the beginning, I thought they were awesome. I had a pretty good spot for pictures also. Played all the songs I wanted to hear, and a lot of people knew the songs.

After that, Hellshock played. I never really heard them before, but gave them a shot. The sounds was almost more metal sounding than anything really punk. The vocals were screamed, with double bass drums. Maybe it was just such an extreme difference from NHFTK, but we left early since we had work in the morning.

FRIDAY
Since we got there late yesterday and missed the first band and part of the second band, we decided to leave early. We wound up catching the last 2 Violation songs. Doors were at 7, and we got there at 7:30 so they must've been running pretty early. I've seen Violation like 3 times before, and they're not bad. They're from Philly, so I'm sure I'll get to see them again soon.

Pissed Jeans was next, and I've seen them about 3 or 4 times, and knew what to expect, but wasn't sure what the Pointless Fest crowd would think. Their sound is a heavy stoner punk, and their singer is a maniac. Couldn't get close enough to take pictures, but enjoyed just watching them. They closed with a song off their new single, "I Don't Need Smoke To Make Myself Disappear," which is a slow droning long song. There were a few heckles from the crowd, but people seemed to be into it for the most part.


I was also unsure of what people would think of Government Warning. When Career Suicide played the fest 2 years ago, it seemed like maybe 10 people were really into it, but those 10 people loved it. I made sure to get a spot right against the stage so I could take pictures, which was great, but I got pushed pretty hard into the stage and the speaker a few times. Government Warning has 2/3 of Direct Control, and have a similar old hardcore punk sound, but more melodic. They played a bunch of new songs off their "No Moderation" LP, which was available for the first time at the fest. Thanks to the internet though, it seemed pretty much everyone in the front already downloaded the LP and knew the new songs. They also covered the Descendents, Vile and the Adolescents. I would say they were hands down the best band on this fest.

World/Inferno was next, and I really wasn't interested. I took this free time to go to the record room, and go shopping. I wound up dropping around 50 bucks on records, mostly from the Government Warning table's distro boxes. I had planned on picking up the rest of the items on my shopping list the next day, so I didn't bring all the money I took out. This moderation proved to be a bad decision.

Around 10:30, someone came into the record room and made an announcement that the show was over, and the cops were there. This meant that Severed Head of State wouldn't get to play. When I left the show, I saw a paddy wagon in the middle of the street to the left, and lots of cops with clubs running down the street on the right. There were also news cameras; that would be my cue to exit. When I got to the car, I saw a helicopter hovering over the church so I knew something really bad must've went down.

When I got home, I saw a lot of messageboard posts about how the squatter punks had a riot with the cops. Let me explain, people travel to this show to not see bands, but hang out in the alley on the side of the church and get wasted. These people are a cross between homeless people and hippies and sometimes have dogs with them. They smell and look terrible, from not showering or eating well. Apparently they'd been harassing people in the neighborhood, which got the police in the area. From what I hear, there was an altercation where a group of these "punks" surrounded and attempted to overpower a cop, which was when backup was called and a riot of sorts broke out. None of this would have happened, however, if they were inside watching the bands. So the actions of a few idiots who decided it was cool to be an asshole and travel to Philly to hang out outside the show ruined everyone's weekend.

SATURDAY
After reading that the show was cancelled, I conceded and showered. However around 1pm it was announced that at one of the after party shows that was already scheduled, that Kylesa, No Hope For the Kids and the other out of state/country bands would get to play at the Mill Creek Tavern at 9pm. After destroying some burritos, Ray and me got there, and it was already almost packed. This show was 21+, since it is a bar which in theory should keep the riff raff out. However, the trouble-makers from the night before were probably my age and older.


I haven't seen Kylesa in a few years, and to my surprise they've upped the ante with 2 drummers! I've always loved Kylesa a lot more live than recorded, but I'm still really excited to hear any new stuff with this 2 drummer line-up. They sound a lot heavier than before, and it works really well for them. For some reason I have no interest in metal sounding stuff in the summer, but in the winter I listen to metal a lot. Must have something to do with the weather.

Dismal were supposed to play the after party show anyway, but were also on the fest. I wasn't really too into it, sounded like heavy metallic crusty hardcore. Not generally a bad thing, just didn't really stick out as anything too different. People seemed to like them...

Thought Crime was next, and were laughable terrible. If you were to make the most generic punk band ever, it would sound like Thought Crime. Despite the awesome name, it just sounded like generic "smash the state" punk, complete with a British accent.


It was really awesome to get to see No Hope for The Kids two times, since they were supposed to play Sunday's show and I didn't plan to go to that. I think they played a lot better here than at the church on Thursday. They also played a new song, which was awesome. I had a different side of the stage for pictures this time, so I got some of the other guitar player, despite some chump who kept standing on the stage pretending to know the words.


Severed Head of State apparently played the after party show the night before, and were taking World Burns to Death's place on the show due to their drummer apparently having a seizure the night before. I have a bunch of SHOS records, but haven't listened to them in a few years. I wish I was more familiar with the majority of their songs, because they were fucking incredible. I had a spot on the left side of the stage for picture taking.

After that was the West Philly All-Star Oi! Tribute, however it was getting really late at that point and we made the trek back to NJ, getting home around 3am. Overall, it was a really good time, I just wished it went more according to plan. It just sucks that the actions of a few assholes had to ruin a lot of people's weekend, and ruin future Pointless Fests.

"If you contribute nothing, you deserve nothing; if you contribute something, you deserve everything"- Jack Control (SHOS)

recent record purchases

Compared the majority of reviews in MRR, this shit is Shakespere...

This is all stuff I've aquired over the past month:

Tragedy- Nerve Damage
What more can be said about Tragedy, they're the best band in DIY hardcore. They'll leave a long legacy of followers for years to come, due to their awesome music, and ability to back up their messages. This record is also on Tragey Records, despite 2 of the members having record labels (plus the fact that pretty much any real independant DIY label would kill to release anything by them). This record is a logical progression from Vengeance, but retains the fast punk spirit, crossed with brooding metallic songs. There's even a piano interlude, that somehow isn't even remotely cheesy.


Career Suicide- Attempted Suicide & Anthology of Releases vol. 2
I was lucky enough to catch these boys on their recent tour and get their new LP, which isn't even out yet. You're not going to be disappointed at all, in fact it's their best record yet. The songs are really catchy, not that their other releases aren't. Most bands tend to level off or get worse after their first LP, but someone forgot to inform Career Suicide of this.
Despite having all their records on vinyl, I got the new Anthology Cd. It has the Signals 7", the Invisible Eyes LP, the split LP with Jed Whitey and a few comp tracks and unreleased gems. Perfect for newcomers, or people like me who jsut want all the songs in one place to rip to my iPod.


Deathcycle- s/t
I had been a fan of Deathcycle from the beginning, their 7" and splits were really awesome. This LP takes their metallic crusty political sound a little further. There's definately more metal, which might be attributed to some member changes, but it's still awesome. I haven't seen them in like 2 years, which sucks, but they've always been really good live too. The cover art is really fitting as well.


Toxic Reasons- Independance
Reissue of an unappreciated classic. Toxic Reasons played some British street punk inspired hardcore. It's from the 80's, so yea it sounds great. This has re-recorded versions of the songs from their 7"s and comps, so I was familiar with most of the songs, just not those versions. It's great, more people should get into it.


Criminal Damage- s/t
Pretty much any project involving members of Tragedy (past or present) has been awesome. This is no exception, though certainly not what you'd expect. Sounds like a lot of 80's British punk, mixed with a little early 80's Cali sound. A little bit like waht No Hope For the Kids is doing, definately worth checking out.


Mind Eraser- Glacial Reign
I was reluctant to check out this band, sorry but a Mental and Righteous Jams side-project really doesn't interest me. But after a lot of people telling me it sounds like a powerviolence record, I figured I'd give the first record a chance. This is their second LP, and first with a full lineup. Their first LP was performed by 2 guys. The sound is a lot more crushing than the last one, and sounds a lot more full. Bands like Neanderthal, and Crossed out come to mind. I should also note that they opened up with a Siege cover when they played here last week.


Army of Jesus- Book Bomb & Prosperity . Health . Finance . Wealth
I caught AOJ on their recent summer tour, and picked up these 2 new records. I had gotten the Rats in the Wall 7" last year from them on tour. Unfortunately it seems they've broken up upon returning home. The music is some awesome foreign influenced fast hardcore punk. They covered my favorite Raw Power song when I saw them, so that may give you a band referance to start with. They will be missed


Fucked Up- Litany (Havoc repress)
Aside from a sort of weird artsy vibe, Fucked Up play some rockin' punk jams. "Reset the Ride" is a definate keeper on this short 4 song 7". I always kinda thought it sucked when foreign bands released short 7"s, due to importing a record from Canada a lot of their 7"s wind up costing like $6. If Fucked Up focused on releasing more songs on less records, I'd probably be more into them. Like it or not, however they're one of the best bands going today.


Brain Handle- s/t
I know listing Black Flag as an influence these days is usually poinless, since most of the time they don't sound anything close. This time however, there's definately some Ginn inspired noodling going on in the best possible way. Reminds me of Life Sentence or early Articles of Faith, maybe a little Jerry's Kids. However there's a definate later era Flag thing going on at the same time. 2 fast ragers, 1 slow rager-pretty different, I like it.


Limp Wrist- Want Us Dead
Gimmicks aside, yes Limp Wrist is a little over the top at times. However, they've been able to supliment this with some awesome sounding old school hardcore that's catchy and memorable. So what if the sing alongs are about liking dudes. The songs have a social conciousness toward the gay community, as you would assume.


Brother Inferior- Anthems '94 '97
I found a copy of their LP in a used bin a few months ago, and ever since have been in love with this band. This is their discography, which has the LP some 7"s and split. What you get is 36 tracks of fast political old school hardcore. In today's political climate it's almost a good career move to have politically based songs (look at Green Day), but these songs ooze with sincerity. The vocals remind me of the singer from AFI, (before he got a sex change - seriously, have you seen him lately?) but are much more harsh.

Kanamits- demo (CD-R)
First off, punk bands with girl singers always rule in my opinion. Sound-wise it's really fast stripped down old school punk. Comparisons to Sin 34 and I Object are appropriate, but the music is a hell of a lot more raw. Totally awesome, looking forward to more from them.

American Cheeseburger- demo (cassette tape)
Picked up this when they came through on tour last week. The band's from GA, and feature members from Goat Shanty. What you get is 2 sides worth of fast punk, bordering on powerviolence. I like it a lot, and will be looking forward to more releases by these guys. Yes, they're as awesome as their name would suggest!

I'm doing another show!

Saturday August 5th, 2006

Beneath the Street (record release show)
One Win Choice
the Body Electric (from FL)
Blank Stare (Boston sXe)
Positive Reinforcement (Boston punXXX)
Seasick

@ the THINK TANK House
Lakewood, NJ

6pm
$5

flyer:
http://bleedingedges.net/projects/flyers/bts.jpg

remember when my old band (SNAKEBiTE) was on TV?

the "A Makeover Story" video is now on Youtube.com
PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3

In case you didn't know, SNAKEBiTE was a punk band who pretended to need a makeover to get on TV. What we got was expensive ugly clothes, free tattoos, dumb haircuts, and a crazy week in NYC.

you can also see a video of us playing live in Atlanta from our Winter 2004 tour (12/27/04)

for more info go to: http://snakebite.bleedingedges.net

there's a few copies of our second 7" still available at Don Giovanni Records
I'd also recommend checking out everything else on there especially the Degenerics, Shape Shifter and the Ergs

I'm in the process of uploading more pictures and flyers to my own site, keep an eye out: http://bleedingedges.net

grr record player issues...

So for some reason my record player doesn't like to work in the summer. Maybe it's the heat, but it seems pretty ridiculous. I will sometimes play once, then when the arm goes back automatically, it won't stay down, or won't go onto a new record. So needless to say, it's very frustrating. I'll review these 2 records I got last week based on what I could get to hear.


Look Back and Laugh- Street Terrorism
A new 7" by one of the best current bands these days. I picked this up when I saw them last week, and boy is it great. Their sound is pretty fast harsh energetic hardcore punk. Pretty much picks up where the last LP left off. This one even has a sick intro, and maybe a little more (dare I say) melodic. Vocals are still harsh as ever, and I'm still surprised a female singer can sound that fierce. It's great, I want more.


Siege- s/t
This LP has the classic 7", which is pretty much the foundation for grindcore. What can I say about siege, it's essential stuff and influenced a lot of heavy fast hardcore bands. It's waaaay faster than anything else that came out in 1983, and is awesome.

Poison Control- demo (cassette tape)
Luckily I don't need a record player (or a cd player) for this one. First off, the demo came on a cassette with a photocopied cover. May not seem like a big deal, but it's been too long since I've gotten one of these. I caught this band last week with LBAL, and they were awesome. Really cool old sounding hardcore punk that kinda reminds me of the Freeze. Lyrically, they touch on politics and conspiracy, as well as growing old in the scene. It's really good, and adds to the long line of great bands currently blossoming from the Boston area.

Someone Start a Band With Me!

I'd like to meet a guitarist and drummer who can dedicate themselves to practicing at least once a week for a few hours. Sound-wise, I'd like to do something along the lines of early 80's hardcore/punk meets a more raw distorted sound. I'd like to have political minded lyrics as well, but I'm more concerned with writing music and getting it tight before recruiting a singer.

bands like: deathreat, talk is poison, crispus attucks, brother inferior, copout, articles of faith, poison idea, discharge, filth, early DC area bands (minor threat, SOA, void, GI, faith, etc), and KBD type stuff.

I also like modern bands like: direct control, career suicide, caustic christ, government warning, strung up, deadfall, i object, etc...

If you or someone you might know would be interested, please get in touch. I've had 4 bands fall through in the past year, and just want someone who can dedicate themselves to something for more than a month. I work normal hours M-F, and am not really planning anything huge. If touring's an issue for you based on work, I'm probably in the same boat. I'm located by New Brunswick, but have driven an hour for practice in the past. Practice space would depend on locations of everyone. Get in touch:

bleedingXedges[at]gmail.com

New policy on junk mail

So if you're like me, I'm sure you get at least 3 credit card applications per week in the mail. I saw this on 60 Minutes (yea, why was I watching that?), that since they always send you postage paid envelopes, just send it back. I used to just tear it in half, then throw it in the recycling basket. It's so much more satisfying to fold it back into the envelope they gave, and have them foot the bill to get their own junk back. I even fold up the envelope they sent the original letter in. Make sure to tear off any info to avoid revenge from the credit card company, and have fun.

"Why? Cuz Fuck 'em"

Musical Monkey

I decided to do a little spring cleaning, and brought in about 50 records in to Curmudgeon Music, my favorite record shop. Here's what I got with my credit:




Brother Inferior- Six More Reasons
Brother Inferior- Anthem For Greater Salvation
I had a split 7" of theirs with NOTA, which I remembered liking. These 2 records were a dollar each, so I figured I'd check out more of their stuff. WOW, am I glad I did... The 7" is good, but the LP totally kills. Musically it reminds me of Crispus Attucks, fast old hardcore with lyrics about america, religion, women's rights, and various other social/political issues. I don't know much about this band really, but I want to know more.


What Happens Next?- the First Year
Had this stuff on vinyl for years, minus the comp tracks. Probably wouldn't normally have picked it up if I didn't have the credit. Figured I could lisen to it at work, and put it on my iPod this way. The CD just reminds me of how good WHN? was. I never got to see them live, which is a total bummer.


the Profits- USAtrocity
I was supposed to see them a few years ago, but their van broke down and they never made it until the show was over. The 7" is ok, not something I'd want to hold onto, or listen to over and over again. Crusty political punk with male/femal vocals, it's been done better before.


Bury the Living- s/t
Someone had recommended this band to me based on my post about Copout on 7inchpunk.com, since it has ex-members. Damn, this band's real real good. I'm gonna have to find more by them, it sounds like fast raw distorted old hardcore. Real real good shit here.


Antiseen-
I don't know much about these guys either, but this 7" is like heavy southern rock. Not really into it


Pissed Jeans- Don't Need Smoke To Make Myself Disappear
This is their first record on Sub Pop Records, and it looks like all the other sub pop singles (even comes on piss yellow vinyl). I got into this band based on the members' previous bands (Ultimate Warriors, Gate Crashers, etc...), but this is a lot different. There's heavy parts, that are I guess kinda stoner rock-esque. I'd probably have to do drugs to fully appreciate this band, but I still think they're cool. All their previous releases took a while to grow on me, so I assume this will too, but right now it's just ok.


the Meatmen- Crippled Children Suck
The Meatmen is one of those bands you hear a lot about in terms of old school punk. I hadn't really heard much by them, but what I heard was ok. Picked this up and was kind of let down, the songs weren't too catchy and there was nothing that really grabbed me. I'll give it another chance, but as of now, I'm not too into it.


A.N.S.- the Pool LP
Picked this up when I saw them the other week. Visually the record looks great, with a senciled grip tape cover (which I assume is limited), and it sounds great too. There's a lot of bands doing the whole skate punk worship thing, but these guys do it probably the best. Sounds like bands like JFA and the Faction who were more surf guitar influenced, rather than DRI's metal guitar. There's some instrumental parts that are really cool, and there's lots of samples of skateboarding sounds. If you like skating and old skate punk, give em a whirl. They just got back from europe and are doing a full US tour next month.


Tonite I'm going to see Look Back and Laugh, who I'm really excited to see. I caught them last year and Pointless Fest and was blown away. Had the split with Dropdead previously, but after seeing them I ran to their merch table and got their 2 LPs and a shirt.

NEW STICKERS!

I should be getting these bad boys within the next 2 weeks:


still have a few of the old ones which look like this:

If you want one, I'll probably give you a bunch...

BleedingEdges.net

Punk's not Dead!?

For as long as I've been going to shows (about 10 years or so) I've heard the phrase "punk's not dead" about as much as "punk's dead." It seems no matter how old or how young you are, people will always complain that "shows aren't like they used to be." I'm kind of in the middle age group, too old for the young new kids and too young for the old dudes. I've watched people come and go, luckily it's the good and sincere people who stick around for the most part.

I guess my own definition of what punk is and its relation to hardcore. Punk rose up from bands who were sick of disco and arena rock, and were more influenced by tripped down rock and roll than what was occupying the airwaves at the time. However, in a few short years the fashion and lifestyle seemed to take a front seat, and punk wasn't something hidden away. Around 1979 is when punk was more or less considered officially "dead." A lot of bands who were punk decided to add crappy keyboards and go new wave. However at the same time there were people who saw what punk was, and what it could have been. Bands like Black Flag and Minor Threat took to releasing their own records, and booking their own tours which essentially kick-started the DIY hardcore scene. A lot of people will try to tell you that "hardcore" is and always has been about being tough and "hard," not so. Hardcore merely referred that they were more passionate, passionate about their music and their community. This phase of hardcore punk was considered "dead" around 1986, when all the founding bands had either broken up or started to sound like bad metal bands.

So if punk died in 1979, and hardcore died in 1986, then why re there still punk and hardcore shows now? Simply put, hardcore punk didn't die... The people who were into it at the time lost interest and wrote it off. Rather than see that things changed, and make an effort to do something about it, people choose to move on with life. There are currently tons of people in DIY hardcore bands who tour all over the world, release their own records and book their own shows. The music can be just as raw as ever, these bands still exist but you have to put forth the effort.

Nowadays the garbage on the radio, while it may certainly be punk-influenced, it has nothing to do with punk. Operation Ivy said "music [is]somehow more than just sound," which I think explains punk perfectly. While these bands can get a fashion makeover and look punk, the fact of the matter is that a real punk wouldn't care about looking good for a photo shoot or making a music video. People view this as what modern punk is all about, and I can see where people would definitively say punk had died long ago. These new bands all over MTV2, regardless of where some of them were they have long forgotten their punk roots by catering to the corporate rock machine. Bands like Green Day and AFI at one time used the DIY touring network to tour the country and get their name out there. These bands then turned to the type of bands who play major label showcases and radio station festivals. Bands like this do not represent people who are passionate about keeping out scene away from those who want to exploit it. I'd say that the punk bands on the surface are so far removed from the ethics and values we have that it's not even punk anymore. There are still people who care, there are still bands that care, you just have to care enough to find them.

"If Punk is Dead, Then What The Hell Is This?"- taken from the back cover of the "Not So Quiet on the Western Front" compilation LP (1982)

I hate music... I love noise

Deep Sleep- You're Screwed
Wow, a great new band from the MD/DC area. I know a couple of guys were in Never Enough, but this sounds nothing like that band. It's got an echoy surfy guitar, with an early 80's California punk sound to it. I really like this, It sounds and looks like an old 80's hardcore punk record. The thin paper sleeve and one color high contrast art match the sound perfectly. Fans of the Adolescents, Agent Orange, and maybe even a little Descendents should check it out.


the Observers- Where I Stay
I just missed the boat on this band, after hearing good things about them, I picked up there CD and loved it. Then I found out they had already broken up, I was bummed but luckily they had recorded this record before calling it quits. Sound wise, it sounds like the stuff on the "So What's Left Now" CD. Melodic poppy punk,


the Ergs- Art of the Underground vol. 8
What more can I say about the Ergs, they play some great pop punk and make NJ proud. Here's 2 new songs, one I think is a cover. Side A is "jazz is the new coke," which can interpreted as "jazz is like the New CocaCola (ie: not good)," or "jazz is the new cocaine (ie: new addictive trend)." Regardless of the Ergs opinions on jazz, it's a swell little record. The thing is limited to only 250 copies, so I wouldn't be surprised if it's gone already. Art of the Underground does a limited singles series, and also released that Skate Korpse limited 7" that I could never track down.


Suicide Party- You're All Invited
Man, when I threw this on I felt like such an idiot for not buying this sooner. I had the split with the Scarlet Letter, and maybe listened to it once. Buy yea, you'd think "ex-talk is poison, full speed ahead and copout" would make me go get it in a second. Basically it's the best combination of all those bands, raw distorted and catchy. I think they may have another 7" out there that I'll need to track down. It's really great, don't sleep on it like I did.


Magrudergrind- Owned!!
I'd been hearing a lot about these guys, they're from DC I believe. It's an OK record, maybe just too fast for me (I never thought I'd say that). I run hot and cold with grindcore, usually I prefer stuff that would lead more to the "powerviolence" side of things than the Napalm Death/Anal Cunt side of things. It's not bad, just not my thing.


Infest- Slave
I was pretty siked to find this in the used bin, no only because it was on green vinyl, but it's a pretty awesome LP. My Infest collection was made up of a few records, but I only had Slave for the longest time in only mp3 format. If you don't know who Infest is, I suggest looking into it if you like fast angry hardcore. A lot of powerviolence bands owe this band, for basically inventing that sound. Rumors had been circulating for the past few years of a reunion, but I've never been one for reunions really.

Memorial Day weekend antics

Wow, busy past few days... Did some record shopping, went to a show and saw X-Men 3 this weekend. Plus this week at work, I have like 15 DVD covers due. If I haven't mentioned before on here that I design DVD covers for a living (though it's not much of a living).

I got to see Tragedy, Warhead, Forward, Violation, and Drawing Dead at the First Unitarian Church in Philly this weekend. I like the church, it's pretty big for large crowds like this. A lot of people complain about the heat and the smell, but it doesn't really bother me. Drawing Dead and Violation are both new bands from Philly, and were good but seemed a little rough around the edges and better suited for a basement show. Forward played next, which was kind of a surprise since I expected Warhead to play next according to all the flyers and internet postings. My first encounter with Forward was 2 years ago when my old band, SNAKEBiTE played with them. I had loved their Burn Down the Corrupted Justice CD, and also got their Fucked Up LP. Unfortunately they only played 5 songs, which were all on Burn Down the Corrupted Justice. I guess there was a rush since it was a matinee show that had to end by 6. They were really awesome though, and the singer started out by saying "WE ARE FORWARD, WE ARE FORWARD, FROM JAPAN, FROM JAPAN, FUCK GEORGE BUSH," then proceeded to play "Fuck Bush" off their latest album. Warhead I knew nothing about other than they were from Japan. They sounded pretty similar to Forward, maybe a little faster and also played a relatively short set. I liked them a lot, and I'll have to track down some vinyl. The singer puked while they were playing, it was pretty nasty. Tragedy played last; I consider Tragedy the best current band. They may not be my favorite, but certainly the best. The raw energy and ferocity when they play is undeniable, and when I went to give them stickers after they played since I took some rad pictures they were super nice. They played a ton of great songs off their older records and 2 from the brand new one which totally rules. They even played "the Point of No Return" as an encore. I'll be seeing them again in NJ on Friday, and I can't wait!

X-Men 3 was pretty much a disappointment. There was a new director which could account for it, but the writing seemed all over the place. It seemed to have the storyline of Jean returning from the dead as the Phoenix, Magneto gathering an army to destroy humans, and the government inventing a weapon that will take away a mutant's abilities. Being a big X-Nerd, there were many inconsistencies in these stories compared to the comic. I would have preferred a new take on the Phoenix storyline rather than just have Jean turn red and float around with a bunch of power. The most disappointing scene in the movie is where the Juggernaut actually say "I'm the Juggernaut, Bitch." This is taken from a little movie clip that had been circulating the internet, I won't post a link because it's too stupid. I'd think with all the money the writers got that they could avoid referencing the internet video in a major motion picture big budget film. I mean if you liked the first 2, see it eventually. If you didn't see the others then don't bother at all. I'd still say that X-men 2 was the best one, but by no means is it a flawless trilogy.

*I'll make another posts about the new records once I get to listen to them all*

Music is my girlfriend

While I was gone, I got these 3 records in the mail. None of them came with those little plastic bags. Record labels: use plastic bags, so I don't have to steal the bags of crappy records to put on good records.

I Object/ FxPxOx
I Object is one of my favorite bands going today. While they may not be the best technical musicians, their message and dedication is something to look up to. They just put out an amazing LP on Alternative Tentacles (yes, that Alternative Tentacles), and before had put out records on their own label(s). They've also toured the USA numerous times, and are currently in Europe for the next month or so. The stuff on this record is by no means their best, but in no way bad. Pretty much the same formula of fast old school HC/Punk with social/political lyrics. There wasn't any female/male alternating vocal parts, which I always enjoy. They actually overdubbed the singer twice in one song rather than having the guitar player sing backups, like usual. That's my only little gripe, it's still great. FxPxOx are from Macedonia, I honestly don't know exactly where that is, I'm pretty sure it used to be a part of the USSR. Either way, FPO are a really good fast political type sXe band. I first got introduced to their music when I was asked to do the design for their split 7" with Secret Seven on Moo Cow Records. One this 7" they only do one song, but it's pretty good. I think the split with secret 7 had like 6 songs, so it kind of shows how their song writing has evolved. Overall, the 7" has two great bands with something god to say from different parts of the world, who are both Straight Edge. It's also nice to see that 4 different record labels collaborated to put this out.

No Hope For the Kids- "Angels of Destruction"
Before the No Hope For the Kids LP was re-released this year, I'd get weekly e-mails from people wanting me to trade my copy to them. I don't really care about the collector value of the original pressing, I just got lucky and found it. But it's an amazing LP, which just sounds like old 80's melodic hardcore punk. It kind of reminds me of the Subhumans (from Canada) or the Observers. This 7" is pretty tricky to get, as are most bands from the Denmark area, but I found it on eBay which sucks because it just came out and I would've had no problem buying from the label directly. This record only has 2 songs, but they're great and I hope they do another LP. I also just found out that they're playing Pointless Fest this year, I'll be there!

Deathreat/ DSB
Deathreat was a band I always liked, but never really loved, until I found their LP in a used bin. For some reason it really grabbed my attention, and made me dust off the other records by them I had owned for years. I might've been the Koro cover, but it might've been the fact that it totally rules. So I found this on eBay, and was surprised to get it pretty cheap. DSB is some pretty intense Japanese hardcore. I missed them when they came through on tour a few years ago, which sucks. I like Japanese hardcore a lot for it's speed and intensity, but the language barrier prevents me from getting too into it.

I wouldn't really all myself a record collector really, more of a record accumulator. I'd never spend ridiculous amounts of money on a record just because it's limited or super old. I'd rather spend 100 bucks on 100 budget 7"s, than 100 bucks on 1 7" I'll never listen to since I had it on CD for years. I'm sure by Monday I'll have a new stack of music to listen to. I just got my ticket to see Tragedy, Forward and Warhead in Philly. It should be stinky, sweaty and crowded... What more could you want?

Just to Get Away

I'm back from Florida, and had a great time hanging out with Annie. Saw some great bumper stickers (If you can't stand behind the troops, you should stand in front of them), saw some sketchy weirdos (they call me "the Rooster"... you know like that Alice in Chains song), did some beach and went to Islands of Adventure. Hopefully it won't be too long before I get to go back, and I hope she didn't get sick of my crazy ass being around for 5 days. I had so much Sweet Tea, lots of fun!

I'll be putting up another post either tomorrow or Thursday, I had some thoughts, and got 3 records in the mail while I was gone. This weekend I get to see one of my favorite bands, Tragedy. It's been almost 2 years since I've seen them, so I'm really glad I get to see them twice and get their new LP.

Florida and records

This'll be my last post for a few days, I'm going to Florida Wednesday night until Monday night to visit my favorite Floridian, Annie. I'll be on the beach, while it's raining and crappy in NJ. I'm also going to go to Islands of Adventure, where they have a Marvel comics themed park. I'm hoping to get a picture with someone dressed as Wolverine.

Recent Record/CD Purchases:


the Ergs- "Jersey's Best Prancers"
This was recorded a while, and just took forever to actually come out. While it may not be as fast as "Dorkrockcorkrod," it's still really really good. Sounds like they've been listening to the Replacements a lot lately. Most notable might be that Scott Reynolds from ALL sings backup vocals on one of the songs... I know crazy right? Seriously, this CD rules and the Ergs really are bigger than Jesus (in my eyes that is).


the Yah Mos Def- "Plays Ugly For Suckers"
A 5 song EP from this Philly hip hop group, scroll down to the show review to get more info about them. Basically it's as if the Beastie Boys had kept the punk energy and sound. Great CD, and it leaves you wanting more.


the Jury- "I Hate the Future"
Great debut for this upstate NY band, sound wise I get a 9 Shocks/ Poison Idea vibe. Fast raging distorted hardcore with strained vocals. Word out on the street is that it's limited, so track it down, before it goes on eBay.


Black SS- "self titled"
I was putting off buying this, since the few songs I heard online were kind of ok, but not mind blowing. I decided to pick it up from the Jury last week though. I'm glad I did, it's real good mid-paced hardcore punk. It's really good to see straight edge bands that lean more toward the punk side of the fence than the jockish hardcore side. I'd like to see them live and pick up some more records by them.

They Might be Giants

On Friday my partner in crime, Laura and I went to see They Might Be Giants at the TLA in Philly. In the past I had been more of a casual fan, first hearing about them through Tiny Toons. They had an episode where they made videos for "Istanbul" and "Particle Man." Then about 2 years ago, I worked with someone who brought a CD of theirs into work, and so I borrowed it and really liked it. Knowing Laura is a big Barenaked Ladies fan, I figured she's like TMBG... I was right. I'd probably say she likes them even more than me, so when we saw they were playing in Philly, we got our tickets.

We wound up getting there a little late, due to Philly's lack of parking. I don't think we missed much since they said thank you, how's everybody after the first song we heard, which was "James K. Polk." The crowd was probably the nerdiest crowd at any concert ever... so many glasses in the room. They played a bunch of my favorites, like "Cyclops Rock," "Istanbul,"Dr. Worm" and "New York City." They even played my favorite song, "James Ensor" which I never would have expected. They had a new CD/DVD of songs written about the various venues they played across the country. They even had one about the TLA, which also had the roadies doing YMCA-esque hand movements. It was pretty awesome, and they probably played for close to 2 hours. I definitely would go see them again, It's nice to go to a show and not have to worry about meatheads pushing into you constantly.

Wednesday's show

Thanks a lot to the Think Tank house, all the bands and all the kids who came out. A good time was had by all, and no problems aside for a 2 hour delay in starting.

my band- we played alright, coulda been better if we had a chance to practice before the show. We only played 3 songs, but people seemed into it. We still don't have a name, but were referred to as "Group Hug" and "Dr. Acula" by various hecklers.


the Jury- this was the first day of their 2 week tour, and were the reason the show was set up. I thought they were great, their sound reminds me of a less distorted 9 Shocks Terror. I picked up their 7", and it's a scorcher on pink vinyl with a spraypainted and silkscreened cover (which smells really unpleasant). They were touring with a fill in drummer, who is also in Positive Reinforcement and Blank Stare who also rule.


Yah Mos Def- I was hoping it wouldn't bee too weird, but I was glad to see people into it. Basically imagine the Beastie Boys... hardcore kids who somehow fell into hip hop. Two guys with tons of energy rapping to beats from an iPod with plenty of hardcore references. I think a line from one of the songs was something like "I'm young till I die like Kevin Seconds." Their CD is awesome too, but should be longer than 5 songs though... I want more!


Fanshen- They have been around for like 10 years, with a brief 4 year hiatus in the middle. I was really glad they could play, since they only seem to play maybe 2 or 3 shows per year. They played a bunch off the LP, "Static/Kinetic," they even played a bunch of new songs, which were great. Their sound is rooted in fast hardcore, but have very political/ social lyrics which border on spoken word at times.


The Ergs- My favorite band from NJ, they're pretty much great in every way. Started off by playing their entire new CD, "Jersey's Best Prancers" in order. They also played the classics, and some new jams. Their sound I suppose could be described as classic pop-punk, like the Descendents/ All and the Ramones with other various rock and pop music influences. I'm glad that on a show with fast loud hardcore, and even a hip hop group, they can hold their own and fit in.

more pictures at: http://bleedingedges.net/hc

last weekend's used bin scores

I went to my favorite NJ record store, Curmudgeon Records last weekend to peruse the used vinyl bins and drop off some flyers. Here's what I found:


Scare Tactic- s/t
Didn't know anything about them, seemed cool and was a buck. I think what sold me on it was that they're from Canada and the guitar player had a Siege shirt on. It's actually really really good fast lo-fi recorded hardcore. Almost a Dropdead quality to it. I could be wrong, but I think the guitar player is now in Career Suicide. The 7" is from around 2000, and I'd be interested to know more about this band.


the Pist / Brutally Familiar- "Small Town Justice"
I've loved the Pist for a long time, and always had trouble finding their vinyl, (anybody wanna trade me a Destroy Society 7"?). Apparently a discography CD is in the works, which should be awesome. This 7" has their own brand of intelligent street punk that I love from the other records that I love. There's even a version of "Small Town" that I assume predates the version on "Ideas Are Bulletproof." Brutally Familiar are more along the lines of faster almost crust-ish hardcore. I mainly bought it for the Pist side, but the Brutally Familiar side will get some more spins. Great deal for a buck.


V/A- Reproach: 8 modern bands covering Negative Approach
The title pretty much says it all, although the bands aren't very modern anymore. Some good ones like Dropdead, Spazz, Voorhees, Man is the Bastard, and others do pretty good versions on NA. I always kinda thought NA was kinda overrated, good yes, but not in the league of Minor Threat and Black Flag. This one was 3 bucks, but it's way out of print. Overally a good haul for 5 bucks total.

come to this show I set up

WEDNESDAY MAY 10

the Ergs: http://dorkrockcorkrod.com / http://www.myspace.com/theergs
the Yah Mos Def: http://www.yahmosdef.com / http://myspace.com/theymd
the Jury: http://myspace.com/thejury
Fanshen: http://www.myspace.com/fanshenhardcore
+1 TBA (my band with no name yet: ex-snakebite/this ship will sink/crashing down) (current-kill crush destroy/seasick/don't wake up)

$5 / 6pm

@ the Think Tank House
Lakewood, NJ 08701

http://www.myspace.com/thinktankrecords
http://www.thinktankrecords.net
http://bleedingedges.net


click here for a link to a bigger flyer