Best of 2015

I have been making it a point to keep doing my "Best of" posts. If you used to follow this blog before, I used to regularly post record reviews, but I just don't have the time to dedicate to that anymore, so do it once a year now. Lots of good releases this year, it was hard to choose. There were a few records that came out in like December of last year, so I just rolled them on to this year for argument's sake. I'm sure the same will happen this year too. A lot of sick cassette only releases, though I tried to keep that section for demos only, there were some sick promos and EPs this year.

On the label front, Bleeding Edges Label was a little more slow than I would have liked. I lost my full time job in Feb, and have been working random freelance gigs since. While not ideal, or stable, I had to scale back operations. I did however release my first flexi disc, for The Flex, which started as a joke idea that became a reality (also containing 2 amazing songs). There were some cool projects I had to turn down, but hopefully things will get rolling again now that I have a steady job again starting in January.

Best 7"s of 2015:
1. Pure Disgust- Chained (Katorga Works/Quality Control)
I may be a bit biased as I did a promo tape for this record, but that being said, I obviously love this band. Their demo and previous 7" were great, but this record really stepped it up. What I always liked about Pure Disgust is that they have a definite UK 82/ Oi influence musically, but their lyrics are actually intelligent. The members in this band are pretty young, and all seem to play in a bunch of other killer bands. NWODCHC!

2. Arms Race- Gotta Get Out (Painkiller/Quality Control)
Arms Race's demo blew me away, so I was really looking forward to this new record, and it definitely didn't disappoint. The band plays HC in a style of early Agnostic Front, but with the brutality of YDI. The singer's voice is really rough, with a thick British accent. I got to see them on their US tour earlier this year and they didn't disappoint. They had a promo tape for their LP, which will surely be a contender for 2016.

3. The Flex- Don't Bother With The Outside World (Lockin' Out)
The Flex have been consistently releasing new records each year, with each one better than the last. Between releases, releasing cassettes (all awesome, all very red). The new material takes a heavy cue from the late 80's NYHC/ New Breed bands, which was of course hinted at on previous records. Some hard mosh parts, while staying punk. This record was recorded at the same time as the flexi I released.

4. Protester- No Identity (BBB Records)
Protester has really grown to be one of the best edge bands out there now. While still a one man project band, the live lineup have been playing around a lot. This new release on BBB will hopefully open them up to a broader audience. On this release there is a heavy Confront influence, and the songs sound fuller. They will have an LP next year, and just dropped a promo tape for it.

5. 2x4- Eight Song EP (Twerps)
This came out of nowhere, and blew me away. I would categorize this with bands like Boston Strangler and Chain Rank, in bands from Boston that sound like the old Boston X-Claim bands. This record fucking rules, very catchy but not melodic, in a Jerry's Kids sort of way. Hope to see more from them.

Honorable Mentions:
Crown Court- both 7"s, Ajax- both 7"s, Shrapnel- "Frenzied State," Straight Razor, Correction- "Weaken the Stronghold," Rixe

Best LPs of 2015:
1. Chain Rank- Up Against A Wall (Side Two/Twerps)
This is perfect, their demo was incredible and this LP certainly didn't let down. Making the jump from demo to LP can be risky, though it seems a bit more common now, but Chain Rank deliver. A friend of mine described them as Lemmy singing for DYS, and I can't argue. It is heavily Boston HC influenced, and has very tight and thick riffs.

2. Violent Reaction- Marching On (Revelation)
Holy shit, Violent Reaction is on Rev, and their first international band. I have loved VxR since getting their demo years ago, and saw them tour the US a few times and establish a steady lineup. Musically it still straddles the early 80's USHC meets UK oi, though the band has been leaning more towards oi (no complaints here). Hopefully it opens them up to people more familiar with Rev's earlier releases.

3. Night Birds- Mutiny At Muscle Beach (Fat Wreck Chords)
You would think that after 2 LPs a band would start the downward slide, not release possibly their best LP 3rd. I know the band spent a lot of time practicing/writing/recording for this, and it really paid off. Being on Fat will no doubt open them up to a new crowd, and frankly they'd be doing them a service. For those uninitiated to the Night Birds sound, think Dead Kennedys meets Agent Orange meets horror movies. This is great!

4. Foreseen- Helsinki Savagery (20 Buck Spin/Take It Back)
I got to see these guys on tour this summer with power Trip and Red Death, which was a perfect setting for their first US tour. They have a very thrash metal/crossover vibe, but definitely stays within a HC realm. If Slayer had short hair, and wore Agnostic Front shirts, it would be like this LP.

5. SPINE- Time Has Gone (Bad Teeth/Assault)
Spine has been consistently releasing awesome records over the past few years. Their sound is a somewhat cross section between Infest and Outburst, late 80's NYHC mixed with some blast beats and some brutal vocals. It definitely straddles genres nicely, and I'm stoked on their new 7".

Honorable Mentions:
Red Death- "Permanent Exile," Obstruct- "Loss of Blood", Warhead- s/t, Impalers "Psychedelic Snutskallar,“ Forward “Against Their Insanity”

Best demos of 2015:
1. Pressing On
I'm a huge Talk Is Poison fan, so when I heard about a new band with the singer, I was sold. 2 songs into streaming the demo, I placed my order for a tape. Very similar to TIP's approach to HC, which also has very memorable, and at times melodic choruses. Glad to see the over 30 crowd still raging hard. Hoping they keep it up, and come east.  
Re-released as an LP on Even Worse/ Way Back When

2. G.L.O.S.S.
if you haven't heard about this band by now, you have been living under a rock. The band's very forceful with their pro-fem/queer lyrics, which have offended and/or confused some in the scene. Politics aside, the music on here is killer, very fast and tight early 80's USHC influenced. Their uncompromising DIY ethic is also something to admire, and it is hard to believe they only have a demo out, as they have been so productive in their first year. They will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years for sure.
Re-released as a 7" on Total Negativity/Nervous Nelly

3. Concealed Blade
Some members of Hounds of Hate (as well I'm sure other cool Pittsburgh bands) did this new band, which reminds me heavily of Life's Blood, but with the whammy bars of Breakdown. They also released a tour tape with some new songs which sounded killer. Hoping for a new 7" or LP in 2016.
Re-released as a 7" on Beach Impediment/Hardware.

4. Night Prowler- Stalin's Boots
Can this be considered a demo? Night Prowler have 2 other tapes out, and both are equally great. The band is a one person project band, heavily influenced by bands like Deep Wound, Youth Korps, Neos, and early Boston HC. Killer shit, hopefully this project continues with anew tape every couple of years. Maybe a touring lineup one day?

5. Night Force
Night Force has been turning some heads around Europe. Some heavy Omegas vibes here from this new German band. The cover art is very much looking like the Abused 7" art as well; a winning combination in my book. Some real good mid-paced hardcore punk with lots of reverb. Keep an eye out for them.

Honorable Mentions:
Violent Minds- Paincave Sessions, Arms Race- New Nonsense, No Parole, New Vision, Regiment, Firewalker, Protester- Paincave Sessions, S.L.I.P., No Time promo, Sentenced- Euthanasia, Stuck Pigs

Best Reissues:
Metallica- "No Life Till Leather" cassette, Agnostic Front- "No One Rules" LP, Ultra-Violent- "Crime For Revenge" 7", Youth Brigade demo 7", Sand In the Face- "Music Made To Riot" LP, Charred Remains comp LP, AFI- "All Hallows"10", Terrorist- "Post Mortem"

Anticipated Releases for 2016:
No Tolerance- "You Walk Alone" LP, Freedom- "USA Hardcore" LP, Arms Race LP, Barge LP, Brain Slug- "Live In Power" LP, No Parole 7"s, Pure Disgust, Magic Circle- "Journey Blind" LP, Adult Crash 2 comp 7", Bricklayer LP, Spine- Deny 7", Response- "There's No Choice" 7",  Protester LP, Blood Pressure- "Need To Control" LP, No Time LP, GLOSS 7", Gag- "America's Greatest Hits," Death Side reissue LPs

Clutter GIFTWRAPPED 2015 show

I was super stoked to get invited to be a part of another show at Clutter. If you're not familiar with them, they do an awesome magazine and have a shop/ gallery in upstate NY. The show was pretty free form, so I painted a couple of toys. All were painted with an airbrush, using Monster Kolor paints. Pieces from the show can be seen and purchased here: https://shop.cluttermagazine.com/gallery/665

"Chipotle Colorway Bearrito": I wanted Bearrito to be a part of the show. I had painted one in this style previously, and I really loved it, so I wanted this to sort of be a colorway I would love to do more of. I wanted to go sort of realistic, matching the silver foil wrapped Chipotle burritos.

"Lizard Sewer Creep": My buddy Mikee made this Sewer Creep toy, and I have painted one before, and it's a really fun toy. I thought some of the flat spots needed details, so I used some netting from a fruit package to add that texture, to be almost like lizard skin. I had an orange vinyl, so I kept the hair and tentacle suckers orange.

"Candy Cane Mummy Boy": I wanted something Christmas-y, so I used this clear red vinyl pocket Mummy Boy by Super7. I used some painter's tape to mask out the various spots I wanted to stay red, them again masked out the eyes and mouth to be green.





"Tin Toy Tofu Robot": Had this toy for a long time, and had started and never finished it. I kept some of the paint that was already on there, and masked out some spots with painter's tape. I wanted it to look like an old tin toys, so I went sort of basic on the paints.

Guacamole Green BEARRITO!!!

Bearrito does not want to give you a hug, he wants to eat you! Beware the next time you are in the woods and you see a large tasty burrito walking around...


This is the exclusive "Radioactive guacamole" colorway, cast in glowing green and black swirls! The material is a hard rubber keshi style. This version also includes a Bearrito button and a BE sticker. Each one is different and only 5 available! I also have a few of the flesh colored versions up for grabs at http://bxebuttons.storenvy.com

Bearrito is a collaboration between Bleeding  Edges X DIEHM STUDIOS, and is a compatible scale with most popular mini-figures.

BxE Buttons new items!!!

Hitting the holiday season hard with a bunch of new items for BxE Buttons. The "Bart Jerks"‬ design is available in an enamel pin, sticker and button. ‪‬"Don't Blame Me, I Voted For Kodos" is available in sticker and button versions. Yes, that is a ‪Taylor Swift‬ / ‪Cro-Mags‬ mashup, and a classic looking ‪Star Wars‬ ‪"May The Force Be With You"‬ design.


http://bxebuttons.storenvy.com

[17.5] Phibes- Unreleased EP

 

Recorded in summer of 2011, this was to be the follow up to Phibes' demo tape. Unfortunately the band broke up in early 2012, and it remained unheard by the masses. The band was heavily influenced by early 80's California hardcore punk, such as T.S.O.L., Adolescents, Circle Jerks and the Nardcore bands.

Since their demise, members went on to Night Birds, Altered Boys, Blunt Force, Big Bad Wolf and No Parole.

Digital release only, available at:  http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com/album/be-175-unreleased-ep

[BE-16] The Flex- Flexual Healing vol. 5: Do Ya Think I'm Flexi?

The UK boys are back! Recorded during the same session as their EP on Lockin Out Records (coming soon), these 2 new songs are hard stomping in your face hardcore. The Flex take heavy influence from late 80's NYHC, and early 80's Boston HC/punk. You should already be familiar with their LP and 7" (both on Video Disease and Milk Run), and their destructive live sets. This is the 5th volume in their "Flexual Healing" releases, the previous 4 being cassettes. The band will be doing a full US tour with Red Death from DC, tour dates HERE.

*This is a split release with Milk Run Records, UK/Europe please get in touch with them for wholesale rates.*

Limited to 1000 copies on red flexi with pocket sleeves. 10 test presses. (2 songs)

Check it out on the Bleeding Edges Label bandcamp page: http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com and https://theflex.bandcamp.com

US/Canada can buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com or UK/Europe: http://milkrunrecords.bigcartel.com

http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel
https://www.facebook.com/MilkRunRecords
https://www.facebook.com/flexin82

"Martian Waltz" for Little Green Men art show

Martian Waltz by Bleeding Edges 11x14 canvas board

I was asked to be a part of the Little Green men art show, hosted by SubUrban Vinyl and Leecifer. Based around his Picklebaby character, who is an alien. I made this using spray paint, airbush and paint markers. A pretty ambitious piece, though also very simple; I went with an alien abduction theme.

May 16, 2015 at the Suburban Vinyl shop in Waldwick, NJ - custom show using Leecifer's Pickle Baby figure as a platform. Word is Lee is going to show up and hang out! Killer lineup. Be there. 4 Frederick St, Waldwick, NJ 07463

[BE-17] Pure Disgust- s/t (promo tape)

The new breed of Washington DC hardcore, Pure Disgust, are back after an awesome demo and a 7" on Flophouse Records. These 3 songs serve as a preview for their new "CHAINED" EP out soon on Katorga Works (USA) and Quality Control (UK). Taking musical cues from UK street punk and oi,  mixing it with early 80's DC hardcore and bands like Life's Blood. 2 of these songs will be on their 7", while "America" (originally on their demo, but re-recorded) is exclusive to this tape. Pure Disgust will be on a US tour this summer, so make sure to check them out! Members also currently play in Protester, Red Death and more

Limited to 100 copies on pro duplicated clear cassettes, sticker labels and printed covers. (3 songs)

Check it out on the Bleeding Edges Label bandcamp page: http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com

Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com

http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel
http://www.facebook.com/puredisgustdc

BEARRITO IS FINALLY HERE!

Bearrito does not want to give you a hug, he wants to eat you! Beware the next time you are in the woods and you see a large tasty burrito walking around...

This is a pilot release in the "Flesh" colorway just like the nostalgic M.U.S.C.L.E figures! This is a collaboration between Bleeding  Edges X DIEHM STUDIOS. BEARRITO is a compatible scale with most popular minifigures.

Available here: http://diehmstudios.storenvy.com/products/12485034-bearrito-rubber-minifigure-flesh

*This is a project that has been between my friend, JR (Diehm Studios) and me (Bleeding Edges). It was conceived as a submission to October Toys' OMFG line for series 5. When it did not get picked, we went forward and produced it ourselves. Below are some concepts and sketches I had made, and JR knocked it out of the park with the sculpting and casting. This is the first of other planned colorways; please follow @diehm_studios and @bleedingedges for further developments.

original OMFG submission

Skullbrainer art show @ Clutter Gallery

I will have a few pieces in an art show, opening this weekend in NY at the Clutter Gallery.This is the first art show where I have submitted pieces painted with an airbrush, and I am really happy how they all turned out. This is also my first collaborative piece (Zombitron) with Stacia Murphy. There are a lot of great artists in the show, and I am excited to see how they all look together.

Sky Deviler by Bleeding Edges

Hooded Zombie by Bleeding Edges

Zombitron by Stacia Murphy x Bleeding Edges

 

Pocket Mummy Gator by Bleeding Edges

A kaiju and other strangeness art exhibition, done in the spirit of the classic It Came From Skullbrain shows, at the Clutter Gallery. The opening reception will be free to the public and take place on March 14th from 6-9pm. The works will remain on display until April 3rd, 2015.
https://shop.cluttermagazine.com/gallery
https://www.facebook.com/events/818938974809610

Best of 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[BE-15] Black SS- Animals E.P.

Hailing from parts unknown, Black SS (aka: Black Sheep Squadron) is a long running straight edge hardcore punk band. Started way back in 2004, this is their first release since 2008. Though they haven't been as active, due to location and general adulthood, they still occasionally play. Comparisons to bands like Slapshot, Kill Your Idols and Life's Blood are not far off for the uninitiated. They had previously done releases on such notable labels as Reaper, Third Party, Organized Crime and others. This release is to coincide with their appearance at Oneota Punk Fest. These song are fast, raw and to the point; proving there are still things to be angry about in your 30's.

Limited to 250 copies on pro duplicated teal cassettes, screened shells and printed covers. 30 #'d pre-release copies on black tapes with sticker labels and fold over covers only available from the band. (5 songs)

Check it out on the Bleeding Edges Label bandcamp page: http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com
& http://blackss.bandcamp.com

Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com

http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel

"Turtles In Time", an official TMNT art show

I was incredibly stoked to be asked to participate in an official Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles art show. So official that my sketch had to be approved by Nickelodeon (see bottom). I didn't want to do one of the main turtles, since I figured other people would be handling that, but the villains from TMNT were always so crazy looking. I went with Leatherhead, who is a mutated alligator. The composition was influenced by an old skateboard design from the 80's, and done in stencils with spray paint on canvas board.  Titled "Leather Daddy," you can see it and many more awesome pieces at the opening reception and online soon after.

Nickelodeon, Chogrin Muñoz and Bottleneck Gallery are excited to announce that on Friday, October 3rd, we will be celebrating 30 years of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with "Turtles In Time", an official TMNT art show, featuring new work from over 75 artists from around the world. 

The opening reception will take place from 7pm-10pm at 60 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249.  There will also be contests, free prints and exclusive giveaways provided by Nickelodeon. The show will be on view until the end of October. Admission is free and open to all ages!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1589815731246083

http://www.bottleneckgallery.com

[BE-14] Blunt Force- 2014 demo

A new project from the suburban hell of New Jersey; featuring a current member of Night Birds, as well as BE alumni from Bloodtype and Phibes. Mainly influenced by bands like Slapshot/ Stars and Stripes, Blunt Force blends Boston 82 hardcore with UK 82 punk/oi. The songs are melodic yet hard and mid paced. Includes a cover of a Boston classic.

Limited to 150 copies on pro duplicated cassettes (100 solid black/50 clear black), printed labels and silk screened covers. (5 songs)

Check it out on the new Bleeding Edges Label bandcamp here: http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com

Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com
http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel

WTFF for Verbal Assault art show

The boys of the Phantom Hand are at it again. This new show focuses on general rude statements and a biting commentary. I decided to flex my typographic muscle with this one. Designed in Illustrator, cut out in tape and sprayed background. Originally I wanted to do it on glass, but that didn't go

well. Yes, that is a quote from the movie Step Brothers...

[BE-13] RAZORHEADS cassingle

After an incredible demo, Razorheads went back to the studio to record for a 7". They had made 50 promo tapes for New York's Alright Fest, which sold out. The songs were too good to be missed, and the 7" is not on the immediate horizon, so this is a re-press in cassingle format with updated artwork. Razorheads play Japanese influenced D-beat, with lots of distortion and reverb. Contains current members of Suburban Scum and Ugly Parts.

Limited to 200 copies on pro duplicated and shrink wrapped putty colored cassettes, with imprinted shells and wraparound covers. (3 songs)


Check out this, and their other releases here: http://razorheads.bandcamp.com
Also, check out the new Bleeding Edges label bandcamp here: http://bleedingedgeslabel.bandcamp.com
 
Buy it here: http://bleedingedges.bigcartel.com 
http://facebook.com/BleedingEdgesLabel

HELLBOY 20th ANNIVERSARY ART SHOW

 

I was excited to be asked to participate in a HELLBOY themed art show to celebrate its 20th anniversary. I had been in a HB art show years ago, but wasn't nearly as high profile. I cleaned up my piece from that, and added the crown in gold paint, so it is very subtle, and extended the tentacle at the bottom. It now fills out the space a lot better. There is a whole lot of talent involved in this, and will surely be one to go check out!

https://www.facebook.com/events/301589879989156

[BE-12] PROTESTER cassingle

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

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

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

[BE-11] Ugly Parts- Wet

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

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

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

Prelude to Judgment Day for It Came From 1984 art show

I was asked to participate in the IT CAME FROM 1984 art show, a show who's theme was based around movies released in 1984. I decided to do a piece based on the Terminator, putting my own spin on the cyborg played by Arnold Schwarzeneggar. I did a multiple layered stencil technique, also using fades and metallic paint. For the eyes, I used these red reflective doll eyes, which really make the piece pop. I titled it "Prelude to Judgment Day," referencing the title of the sequel.. .On a personal note, I usually spray paint outdoors, but with all of the snow and cold weather, I had to take over a part of the basement to get this done.

Chogrin Illustration & Design & BOTTLENECK GALLERY PRESENT: "It Came From 1984"
I invite you to the latest art show I'm curating at Bottleneck Gallery! "IT CAME FROM 1984" will pay tribute to the films of 1984 (Ghostbusters, Terminator, Gremlins, Nausicaa, Neverending Story, Karate Kid, etc.), which are all turning 30 years old this year!

Check out www.bottleneckgallery.com for the latest news and artwork previews for this show!

https://www.facebook.com/events/597680180304535/