Wednesday 5 November 2008

Valhalla Pacifists/Prumyslova split 12" LP


So, here we have it, the Valhalla Pacifists; Harrogate's finest and wittiest thrash troop and their second vinyl expedition with the Czech's Prumyslova Smrt. In total the band shred through 25 tracks of Thrashy, Grindy goodness.

PS play some furious Grindcore with some brilliant guitar riffs that had my head nodding piled together with some truly harrowing growls and snarls that fans of grindcore would naturally expect. The lyrics are really well thought out too and there's some original thought put into each one too (but not speaking Czech I don't know what the others are about HA!).

The Valhalla Pacifists side, however, was a let down. I mean, instrumentally and lyrically it delivers. It is what you would expect from the VP boys, 9 tracks of raging thrash with lyrics that go from Transformer Beatdowns to making sure the younger generation appreciate the Punk community that these lads have put their blood, sweat and tears into. I feel let down though because most of the VP tracks are from the "Punks In Trunks" split they did with Fuck With Fire (which costs about a quid I think) which was on Dead End Records. Granted the costs of recording are expensive (especially in these economically fruegal times), but really their side just left me feeling vaguely ripped off because Id already paid for those tracks and suddenly found myself paying [cosiderably more] for them again. Indeed support your scene, but I do feel kinda had and its not really the parting of money, its the general principle of being fobbed off with the same tracks from a previous release. Shit Id expect from Rancid or some other mainstream Punk band, but not these lads, for shame! Again, VP still deliver the goods in the way we all expect these crazy, twisted lads to, its just a shame they're not 9 new unheard ditties.

All in all, if you don't own the "Punks In Trucks" split this 12" is fucking rad. If you do, I wouldn't bother unless you really want the PS tracks
J.W [Keep Screaming, Cat And Owl, Dead Heroes]

Friday 17 October 2008

The Burning Times - The End is the Beginning Is The End Is The Beginning 7"

So this is the newest releases from Brighton Punk trio, Burning Times, consisting of Andy (Abandon Ship), Matt (also AS) and Nick. For those of you who remember the first 7", you will recall it to be a proverbial powerhouse of politics and gender issues and scene values. All expertly written and wonderfully delivered in a blaze of crust inspired thrashy Hardcore.

Well this is more Crusty then before with some Witch Hunt/Tragedy-esque blood running through its veins and is truely a stomping brutalising onslaught of epic thrash tinged Crust (mouthful I know. Trust me, it works). Some truly brilliant tracks on this 4 track EP. Lyrically it deals with being out and proud, coping with loss and family matters. Lyrically this record is really strong. They're the type of lyrics that few could maybe relate to personally which I feel is the beautiful part of this band. The lyrics are truely straight from the heart and although you may have no comprehension of some of the matters delt with, you feel every ounce of rage, sadness and resentment thats seered into every track. Christina is the guest vocals for "Disipitive Structures" which works fantastically as well with her deep growl and bark that seeths darkness into the song.

I love the track "Pride". The lyrics for "Pride" are just brilliant thought out and wonderfully phrased into a true out and proud gay anthem for every queer punk out their to sink their teeth into an even straight people can enjoy the passion put into it.

So pick this up and enjoy it!

J.W [Keep Screaming]

In crust we trust

Thursday 7 August 2008

86 Mentality - Final Exit CD/7"

86 Mentality are probably one of my favourite bands, at least in recent years, and this Final Exit 7"/CD is the ultimate mark on their existence. Six tracks of British Oi inspired hardcore punk (with an extra track, and six live songs from a live show in Lintfabriek, Belgium) sits on this record so brilliantly.

It's catchy in its own right, and it really is fucking awesome. Included are riffs that are so powerful they just make you want to pick up your guitar and throw yourself around your bedroom. I've been there. Grave Mistake and Deranged are probably putting out some of the best records in hardcore right now, and long may it continue. YEAH.

Friday 1 August 2008

Cloak/Dagger Interview


Basically, it took me ages to listen to Cloak/Dagger. I don't know why. I didn't go to any of their live shows because they toured with Life Long Tragedy (not as a protest, but I didn't think I'd be into them). Then a few months later I noticed that they'd done/were doing stuff with GRAVE MISTAKE, and realised that I should probably check them out. I bought the 7"'s and it started from there. 'We Are' was re-released on vinyl a few months ago, and it really is an awesome record. They were definitely a band that I wanted to explore further, so I sent Jason their vocalist a bunch of questions.


Here they are:

Nick: So, 'We Are' just came out on Grave Mistake on wax. Was a vinyl version always the intention from the start?

Jason: It took close to a year after the CD was released until the vinyl came out and we wish it would have come out sooner. There was even talk of Darren Walters ressurecting Hi-Impact to do the vinyl but we are happy that it came out with Alex and on Grave Mistake. We worked with Alex on our first release the Pinata 7" and then again with the Kamikazes 7" which had an unreleased song off of the LP so he was down to press the vinyl for the LP. The record sounds a lot more gritty and dirty which I think works well for the songs.

Nick: You did a tour of the UK with Life Long Tragedy, how did that turn out? Itwas kinda weird for you guys touring with a headline band that are largely musically different to you? How did it come about?

Jason: I talked to Avocado about coming over before the CD on Jade Tree was released. We just wanted to tour as much as we could when the record came out and they suggested Life Long Tragedy since they were looking for a band to tour with. We knew they had been over seas before and we were ready to go. It ended up being good because we all got along well with their band but the shows were strange for us to say the least. It was mostly core kids there definitely to see Life Long Tragedy and then there would be a couple kids with Fucked Up shirts or Career Suicide patches at every show and we would know oh ok they are here to see us. I don't think we won over any one on that tour.

Nick: On that note, word on the street is you're coming over again? When will that be, d'yknow?

Jason: Right now we are putting wheels in motion to come over there in November and we can't wait. We toured Canada in March but that's the last time we have done longer then a few dates and it's going to be with The Computers which are more our speed.

Nick: There's a load of good labels, which seem to be putting out some good records, and I keep seeing flyers for a bunch of gigs that make me weep that I don't live in the US but How healthy is the US live scene at themoment? And are kids buying lots of records or is it pretty apathetic?

Jason: It depends what kind of show it is. There are a lot of good bands in the US right now and sometimes there are shows that have awesome line ups where there are 200 to 300 people there and there are times where some good line ups only draw 30 or 40 people. We have a lot of shows in Richmond at a bar that holds about 60 people and it's usually packed and we just had No Way Fest here and Best Friends Day is coming up and those are fests that draw a lot of people from all over so I'm lucky to be in a city that has that going for it. Kids are definitely buying vinyl in a big way. Alex is almost sold out of the We Are lp's after a few weeks and we are running out of our copies fast too and people are always trying to keep up with new bands so we aren't that jaded over here. Every now and again there will be a show I know I should go to but end up staying home and I suck for that but there are a lot of shows here.



Nick: I don't know how aware you guys are with tours over here, cus prices arereally high at the moment, and it seems like a lot of bands avoid the UK unless they're with some booking agency like Avocado so they can safely tour with a guarantee, because it's so hard to break even. I think Loser Life came over and to break even they needed something like £250 ($500) every night...to break even and some kids lost a bunch of money on it. Is there a general impression of that in the US of the UK? And did you experience any problems when you came over at all with LLT?

Jason: Definitely. The UK killed us money wise on the last tour. It cost money for the work permits, the ferry over and for gas and food while we were there and we had a couple shows fall through so it left us in bad shape. We lost money at the end of that tour and it's unfortunate but bands need guarantees to make ends meet these days. There is gas, plane tickets, merch, food, driver, van rental, equipment rental and if you're lucky enough to cover that you still don't have money for rent or bills when you go home. Well some bands do but not at our level. All that aside we had a great time in the UK eating cheaper food and hanging out.

Nick: Are any of you guys in any projects/bands outside Cloak/Dagger that are going to be making an impression soon?

Jason: Not at the moment but I think there's things in the works.

Nick: Any awesome bands from the Richmond area we should be checking out?

Jason: The Ladies is a newer band from Richmond that rule. Wasted Time and Government Warning but I'm sure every one knows them by now.

Nick: Finally, GG Allin or Amy Winehouse?

Jason: I'm going Amy on this one. She smokes crack and keeps that glamour look, GG just throws shit and his songs are better but image is every thing.


Nick: Thanks to Jason for these questions. 'We Are' is now available from www.gravemistakerecords.com

Sunday 6 July 2008

Deep Sleep - Manic Euphoria


I think the best way to review this record is by not listening to it while I do the review - which is what I usually do.

So, Baltimore's Deep Sleep really are a killer band. It's once in a while when you get a record completely off the cuff based on what you've heard and they turn out to be really really something. This is short, sharp and delivers a complete package of Circle Jerks and Descendents style inspired hardcore punk. It's catchy, and filled with riffs that Greg Hetson wishes he wrote (or in the case of Textbook Timebomb, did actually write; busted dudes!). Needless to say, bar one weird emo breakdown, this is the complete package. I knew I couldn't get away with doing this review without comparing them to some band. Whoops. - Nick [Grave Mistake]

Civic Progress - Disposable


Nine tracks of angry pissed off hardcore punk. Rough til the end this band rips through the dregs of society, and leaves you feeling exhausted. Second seveninch, and still going strong Civic Progress are one of those bands you wish you could see live all the time because you know they'd destroy it every time. Fashionable Idiots should be proud, this really doesn't let go. I know I'm constantly giving good reviews, but y'know, I only buy good records, and this is another. - Nick [Fashionable Idiots]

Saturday 5 July 2008

Double Negative - Raw Energy EP


Negative Points:

- Ridiculously large thank you list, not even in an ironic way. Pretty disheartening to see I'm not on it.* I'm in two minds whether to do a good review. I jest.

Positive Points:

- Fast, thrashy, hardcore punk in the vein of Void, and loads of 80's hardcore bands I can't even think of right now.
- Probably my favourite 7" in the past few weeks.
- Packaging is illuminating. You can actually tear it apart and it makes a stencil of their logo. Although taking it apart would probably decrease its eBay value in a few years. Ooooh decisions. - Nick [Sorry State]

* There is literally no reason why I would be on the thank you list whatsoever.

Friday 4 July 2008

Crocus - The Worst Kind of Joy is Hope CDEP


Will, I freely admit I am not a manly man (despite my size and stature), but I am a man all the same and generally act accordingly. However today was an different day, when this EP arrived and I put it on I squealed with girlish delight as each note was played, each string with struck and each lyric was sung.

You can always tell if a Screamo band is going to be good. This can be done in two ways, firstly if they list influences from the 90's and secondly if they name themselves after a flower (and example of this tenuous theory is Orchid).

This is the second recording by Crocus (the one track Kristallnacht demo was reviewed earlier) and released on We Heart Records. These guys are a truly amazing band captured perfectly on CD (shame its not vinyl, but there you go) on this 5 track wonder. From the moment "When Your Own Heart Asks" rips out to when "Eight Great Fears" drones to a halt is a complete joy. Zach is an incredibly accomplished guitarist and his frantic playing is flawless through out and Lewis does a brilliant job of keeping up the pace while playing exceptionally himself.

Lyrically Crocus are decent as well, they're everything you might expect from an emotional band and more with lyrics that deal with love, sadness and thinking about your role in life.

Id have to say my two favourite tracks on this EP are the first, "When Your Own Heart Asks" due to the ferousity and punch that it packs and "Merit Lies" because of its truely haunting sound and fantastic lyrics.

I think everyone who loves early Screamo like Orchid, Guyver-One or Saetia should actively go out and buy this and listen to it forever because its just one of the greatest EP's ever!

J.W [We Heart Records]

Thursday 3 July 2008

Podcast Number FIVE


yo, i've done yet another podcast featuring an array of bands including:

modern action, wipers, dean dirg, banxthis, the germs, the vicious, to the dogs, regulations, sick mormons as well as a heap of others. some new, some old.

can be downloaded from here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?4eofd0zmxrp

- Nick

Tuesday 1 July 2008

Fucked Up - Mixtape II


Fuck, this is pretty cool. It's got some pretty hilarious stuff on it ranging from dodgy interviews to really really shit Nirvana covers. It's got loads of decent songs on it, including the Hidden World version of Dangerous Fumes - which wasn't included on the LP, God knows why not! Especially considering they play it live still. I think. Songs from Social Circkle, Brutal Knights, Sex Vid, Dangerloves, and various other bands. This is pretty good to listen to on a Sunday afternoon.

Pretty rad on the whole. - Nick [Deranged]

Friday 27 June 2008

Born Bad - Moron Music 7"


Woah this is cool. Third 7" from California's really -killer-SSD/Negative-Approach- worship-with-hints-of- Career-Suicide-hidden-about punks Born Bad. Probably one of my favourite Fashionable Idiots releases in a long time, it kinda is fast, but then breaks and slows down at the right points into sludgy mosh-parts. Most people into hardcore will like this. They call themselves Bullshit Hardcore, and that's probably what they are. Awesome. - Nick [Fashionable Idiots]

Thursday 26 June 2008

Masshysteri - Paranoid 7"


Limited to a mere 200, this record already goes for $60+ on eBay. Hype? Well, err...yeah. At £30 for one track, 'Paranoid' is arguably one of the most expensive records per track there is knocking about and I'm certainly in no rush to sell my copy either, but...it really does little for me.

Now don't get me wrong I do like Masshysteri, I really do, but they've followed an annoyingly poppy direction after The Vicious, and left their Wipers-worshipping/stealing behind. Which is a shame. 'Alienated' and 'Obsessive' were two really really awesome records, but there seems to be very little coming from them anymore. This single, is a bit too sugary sweet, it's not really punk, it's just something that's there. The annoying screams PAAAAAAARRRAAAANO EEEEEEEED does get a bit draining after a while. That's not to say it's not a bad record, because it's not, I just don't really dig it.

At Trashfest, the crowd was dull, yeah it was during Turkey/Holland, but no one really cared, and the music was uninspiring at best. The only time everyone got into it was during a Vicious song, I'm not one to judge a band on crowd participation but it's obvious that Masshysteri aren't as exciting as they used to be. They appear to be slowly burning out. I just hope they release a killer LP that proves me wrong. Sorry dudes. - Nick [Hell Yes!]

The Shitty Limits in NME

Or were they? Click on the article to see the full-thing.


Photobucket

Discussion re: the article can be found here:

http://www.collective-zine.co.uk/cboard/viewtopic.php?id=34937&p=1

Monday 16 June 2008

Dean Dirg - RAUS!

Shit! It took me way too long to get hold of this record. I don't even know why. Maybe because I was stupid enough to think that Dean Dirg couldn't top the classics they already have. But THIS RULES. For serious. Track after track, this delivers, oh it delivers on every fucking level.

Dean Dirg are back, with avengence. Fourteen tracks in under fifteen minutes, they haven't stopped doing what 'they do'. I'm so happy I'm seeing them in a few days. No more "I Won't Pay's", no more "I Am Boreeeed's", no more "ROCK OUT'S", get ready for this. Everyone take note, get this record, put it on, turn it up to thirty and lose your mind. WOW. - Nick [Wasted Sounds]

Play It Faster Podcast Number FOUR!


Can be downloaded HERE:

Includes, new and old shit from: cro-mags, the briefs, angry samoans, cloak dagger, deep sleep, skrewdriver, social circkle, circle jerks, modern life is war and various other bands. i'm not giving away the playlist anymore cus that's boring. listen, you might be in for a surprise! it's just over 30 mins long!

any problems, errors, mail me at nick (at) playitfasterrecords.co.uk or pm me on here; thanks!

can be downloaded by following this link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?lmgd9nm5xvl

Wednesday 11 June 2008

Oh Kerrang, Oh Kerrang.


I remember the days I always used to buy Kerrang. Long journeys with my Mum would result in me begging her to buy a copy for me at the Esso on the A12/M25 London interchange. I remember when I'd come out of hospital, I wrote her a list of what to get me whilst I was lying comatosed in my bed, Kerrang was top of that list, followed closely by Beano and Spurs magazine. As she popped over the road to the local post office, I put on the CD that I'd got from the week before. Dexter Holland's mix-CD. Holy shit I thought. This was fucking ACE. I still have it today, and there are still some real gems on that sampler. Black Flag, The Misfits, Minor Threat, the list goes on...

Now, this is by no means a rip on Kerrang. Well, actually, it is. That was a lie. But I mean, a magazine's got to do all it can to sell units, and that's fair enough. But the thing that that hacks me off is that Kerrang used to have credibility. Now it just relies on fifteen year olds on Myspace for opinions. It now compares any band with a vaguely hardcore riff to Gallows; including the band Maths. Excuse me Kerrang, but even my dementia-ridden Greek grandmother could pull out a better comparison. Do your research. That's what you're paid for. I even laughed when the called Your Demise a 'Champion wannabe' band. HAVE YOU ACTUALLY HEARD CHAMPION YOU STUPID FUCKING IDIOTS. Or did you quickly gloss over their influence list on MYSPACE and insert whichever one would sound funnier? What are you going to do next? Compare Bring Me The Horizon to Metallica?

This is the final straw YOU FUCKING MORONS. Next time I see a kid in skinny jeans, a black and red striped jumper buying a copy of Kerrang with Against Me on the front cover with the subititle "SAVIOURS OF PUNK ROCK" "BETTER THAN THE CLASH WERE" "BEST BAND IN THE WORLD" "BETTER THAN REFUSED" "EVEN JESUS LIKES THIS BAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" or whatever TOTAL FUCKING GARBAGE you come out with, I'm going to fucking grab their head, smash it on the fucking counter, carve "TASTELESS FUCK" into his forehead with a HB pencil, and fucking post him to you in pieces. You're the worst thing about music in this country, and I can get better journalism from the DAILY FUCKING MAIL'S 'LETTERS' SECTION. PRICKS.

Friday 6 June 2008

Public Apology to the Red Dons



I recently stated that the Red Dons 7" 'Escaping Amman' on Deranged was "boring". I admit I was mis-guided, and the record is actually awesome. I'm issuing a full and frank apology to my friends for thinking that I would be unable to appreciate the music. When, infact, I can.

My new review is as follows:

Escaping Amman is a great record. A grower infact. At first I cast it aside, underneath a stash of Damned and Ramones records, disregarded and un-loved. I dragged it from its shell after listening to the LP (which, similarly, I never listened to after listening to this 7"), and it was really good, although had a few parts that I still don't quite *get*. I cracked on the little bit of plastic, cranked it up loud, and really can't see why I didn't like it the first time. Was I drunk? Was I still reeling from the fact that the Poison Control 7", that I got at the same time, was so unspeakably awesome. We will never know.

I have, of course, learnt from this lesson and will, in future, listen to a record fully before I jump to any rash and negligent conclusions. Sorry Red Dons. Sorry world.

Tuesday 3 June 2008

Acid Reflux - Secret Power E.P.


This is the second 7" from Albany's Acid Reflux (haven't heard the first, so you're not getting any references). It's been a bit hyped up, and to be honest I didn't find it that great. It sucks because I usually love anything No Way puts out, but this jus' ain't that special.

It's as standard as hardcore punk goes, but it doesn't really go any further. The instrumental bit at the end is interesting; yet boring. A couple of the songs are cool though, with basslines obviously pilfered from Limp Wrist (I know, they share a drummer; blah) being the better parts of the record. Buy it, listen to it, turn it off and put the new Nightstick Justice or Social Circkle 7"'s on instead. - Nick [No Way]

Hammer - Blue 12"

Lord know what inspired me to buy this. I think it was because Id seen it sitting in the Deranged store for ages and it intriged me, so I bought it.


This is, like Deranged say, like Gauze, or G.I.S.M. (only minus the excellent solo's). Its boss to the max. These guys really know how to shred and I think this is their 3 or 4th release, all the rest are out of print. But this is brilliant. Lyrically I havent got a clue what's going on because I just don't speak Japanese, and the lyrics sheet is also in Japanese. Now, mad props for this, I think more foreign bands should sing in their mother tongue, why the fuck should they cater to a Western Audience, we should learn their language!



But anyway, this 7 tracks on a 12" (which probably could have just been on a 7") but they're pretty damn boss, these four guys certainly know how to play, and to be honest Im yet to find a Japanese band that just doesn't blow me away with their technical ability, even if they're playing something as simple as D-Beat or Crust, they can just play, thats it, they have "THE GIFT".


Id definitely recommend getting anything you can lay your sweaty little hands on by them, because they're pretty fucking sweet and definitely 100% better then the Arctic Monkey's, Nick.


J.W [Deranged]


hoping Nick gets raped by a broken vinegar bottle and fisted with salt.



Smart Cops - S/T 7"


Six tracks of high-octane Italian trashy hardcore punk comprises Smart Cops' first 7" on Sorry State Records. Similarly with a few other related bands, with the exception of a few, Smart Cops don't sing in English, which is also nice, and it also means I can bond further with my Italian friends by asking them to translate for me. Kicking in in just under eight minutes and, with the creds of having ex-La Piovra/Ohuzaru/Endless Inertia members, this band are good.

Anything else I can say? Not really, although if you're a fan of aforementioned bands (although Smart Cops only really sound like La Piovra) you'll probably know/know of this band already. They're also better than Azriel, Jake. Fans of the Fashionable Idiots discography will lap this up in a split-second. On your marks...Go. - Nick [Sorry State]

Friday 30 May 2008

Like having a piss and not washing your hands...


We've all done it from time to time.  What I'm referring to (all similes aside) is downloading music. This was brought on by Nick's little justification for slamming up some choones for you all to enjoy (mostly live stuff from the Hardcore days of yore). But his little "please don't shoot me for uploading" speech set the ol' cog's a-whirrin'. 

Like I said, I think at least 80% (maybe more) have downloaded music at least once in their lives and we're not talking the iTunes 70p a song downloading. We're talkin' full, free downloads. I didn't for ages but since moving out and finding myself increasingly more budgeted (having bills to pay does that to you for those not in the know), I began to download stuff, at first it was stuff that was no longer available from the 70's and 80's, then it was to stuff that was OOP and I couldn't find in some small dusty distro in Sweden and then it was stuff I wanted but wasn't really sure I'd like. I make it a personal choice to go download anything by anyone HUGE because, although the bastards can afford to lose the sales, the wrath of the RIAA comes CRASHING down on you and not having the money for music becomes the least of your troubles when you cant afford to settle out of court or pay fine, and this face is far too pretty for jail. 

Now like I said and probably like most people, I download music because firstly I cant afford to keep buying CD's/vinyl by bands Im not sure I'll like, and secondly because (in correlation to firstly) I want to check it out. I always do this with the express intention of at some point (when funds allow) to buy the "still active/music still available" bands stuff or in the very least pick up stuff by them when I see it (like new releases) so they can at least make money off me, and Ill go and see them live when I can.  I suppose the problem is though, once I have the music (despite always preferring to own hardcopies for album art and lyrics sheets etc) I lack the incentive to later purchase the albums I've downloaded (usually no more then one album per band) which is a terrible thing, I mean, I do buy the later releases or releases I want that I see are about, but not ever to really get the actual release I've downloaded.

The thing is you don't even have to have Limeware, Kazaa or Soulseek or any other p2p networking torrent sharing software to download music. Google seem to have inadvertantly provided scores of places which can allow you to download music from its Blogs. Google's blogspots (while I sure google dont condone, but also dont stop such acts) allow its users to link rapidshare/mediafire etc etc websites with the desired content for download which indirectly makes Google a part of the problem. 

The problem is this: there are a few honest souls out there (like myself) who download with the express and honest intention of getting money to the bands later (because if you're a Hardcore band of any merit you'll be small and poor, holding down a full time/part time job while you play or are claiming the dole) because they work hard to produce music that they enjoy playing and you enjoy hearing and its wrong to deprive them of this. And the various music bloggers always tell you to buy the stuff later. Hell! Ive even seen one blog that gives you direct links underneath the download clicky to buy the music (Hats off to them!). But the big question (and root of the problem) is how many people download music, but never buy? Id imagine its probably a little over half of that 80% download without any intention of funding the bands they claim to love (and Im being pretty optimistic when it comes that figure). 

The fact is, the people in the bands work fucking hard to make the music, and to just take it without giving anything for it, is just kinda wrong. Ill agree that CD prices are too high (well, HMV, Zavvi and occasionally Amazon prices anyway) but we're talking the little guys! who are on the little labels on need that money to make more records, to cover the cost of pressing the records, printing T-shirts and for touring, not to just go with the rest of the money they make from the fat advance they get their label, a la Gallows (Yeah! we know you got a 5K advance, its all you talked about when you played UEA), so to deprive them of that money is a damn site worse then robbin' up Mary J Blige or P Diddy etc etc.  

I suppose my big point is, if you worked for all week for your money and I then took a days worth of money out of your pay check it would suck, so don't do it the little bands you claim to support, if you're downloading their shit, which Im sure they don't mind because the fact of the matter is they probably do it too, at least go see them live and buy one of the albums/recordings they're flogging (also that way the money goes straight to the band which is a thumbs up) so they arnt going completely out of pocket.

J.W

Azriel - A Will of Fire LP


Have you ever begun listening to a band simply because of the name. I have, in fact I do it a lot... maybe more then I should. Like for the Melbourne Grindcore band Super-Fun Happy Slide (honestly how could you not like that name!?) or Cutting Pink With Knives, they're odd and eye catching, you cant help BUT check them out. Azriel were no different. 

I did go into this thinking "Christ, its just gonna be another one of those Modern Life is War style knock off bands that are all the rage at the moment", I mean, I do like those bands as much as the next guy, but when did originality die? And was even more skeptical when I saw the tell tale signs of Dan Mumford artwork, again, I love Mr. Mumford's art, its fantastic, but its being really over used at the moment and kind of used as some kind of badge of merit and achievement, a symbol of a band going places to have Mumford artwork. But I was pleasantly surprised, the Myspace tracks (yeah, I use myspace, so what!?) where actually amazing and something a bit different. These guys are a Hardcore band, but they take heavy influence from Metal, though they aren't particularly heavy, they are RIFFY AS FUCK! This band's LP is chocked full of "hawt lixx". Infact the band barely have time to sound heavy with the sheer amount of riff going on and how it managed to not sound "Showy offy" I will never know. This is a release on Thirty Days of Night Records who are distributed through Warner, so its Warner sinking its dirty teeth into Hardcore, which to me always seemed a bit contrary to the nature of Punk, but that aside its a great record.

Ill admit, even though this record came on 1 of 300 orange LP's the CD artwork is a lot better in my opinion (still Dan Mumford, just a different concept, see below), but what can you do? Its still an awesome record.  There was also no lyric sheet which annoys me, but that could just be because of an error, or intentional, its annoying if its intentional.


Like I said, this record is pure riff. The instrumentals are completely flawless, the harmonies are fantastic, the bass is powerful, the drums are thundering and it brings it all together into a complete powerhouse of a record which makes me think of a herd of wild stallions thundering across and open plain (lord knows why, but it does).  Its got some pretty typical vocals too, all gruff and shouty and some decent shout outs too.

The stand out track for me is Of Those Who Are Alive, which is simply fantastic, a really gem of a track, all the others are shiners too, but this one really stands outs!

Its a great record, if you're into techy Hardcore then Id say get it. They're a fantastic band and I recommend this record to anyone.

J.W (Thirty Days of Night)

Thursday 29 May 2008

Maths - MMVII (discog CD)


If I was told probably no more then two, two and a half months ago that Id be listening to Screamo and I'd have probably told you to fuck right off because "I hate that shit", isn't it funny how things change, haha. I think I actually started listening to it because I got into Guyver-One after downloading their s/t 7" off another blog and loving it. I remember saying bad things about Maths and decided that now I loved Screamo I should at least give them another chance, I did, and I loved it. I tried to get their Demo's and CD but they'd all sold out, but then Zen informed me that they have this little beauty set for release and so I waited patiently and it arrived! I ordered it and it turned up at my house and was immediatly put into my CD player where I listened to it continuously throughout the course of the day. 

Its good stuff, It is proper 90's style Screamo like Jeromes Dream (who are in fact covered) or City of Caterpillar only the songs are quiet as epically long (in terms of CoC) and are techi to the max. But I think you get the idea, that its that frantic guitaristry, with the little slow melodic bits and the manic vocals. This is no exception, the vocals are fantastic and heartfelt, the guitarmanship is exception really adding to the emotion behind each song even helping to halfway convey which emotion is being expressed, the drumming also melds beautifully into the tracks helping to set the pace.

This is mine blowing stuff, the CD compiles the new song, the 2007 tour demo, the 6 track EP, some alternative mixes and a complete live show. So theres alot to get with your money, I lyrics sheet would be nice, but I suppose that came with the last releases (which I dont have and which are now unavailable) however the lyrics for "ii" & "iv" can be found on their Myspace. But this is still good stuff on pure aural pleasure alone.

All the tracks are pretty noteworthy, and the added remixes are certainly a very nice touch. Im really feeling "How Shall We Comfort Ourselves" at the moment, but this is a bright star among a galaxy.  The new track, "2346" is an epic 6 minutes in length and despite the recording being a little quiet (unless Zen is going for Jeff style vocals) although this does pick up, is still a good number with some nice little guitar moments and some somber bass lines which really help to give the track shape and I particularly like the mass scream out that occurs towards the end. The Jeromes Dream cover is particularly awesome too with the band even seeming to employ the same vocal technique the Jeff does (a la no mic).

Certainly a CD to own if you've just got into Maths or if you missed the Demo and Ep's when they came out, or even if you just want it for the Bonus material. I enjoy it and there's no reason why you shouldn't. So basically, if you're into stuff like Pg.99, Jeromes Dream or City of Caterpillar then you'll get into this.

J.W [Holy Roar]

Wednesday 28 May 2008

The Shitty Limits - Espionage 7" ep


For me, when it comes to the Limits this stuff writes itself. They've just not written a bad piece of music that I know of. Its all completely top knotch stuff. As you know by now, they play a Garage Hardcore fusion that is simply genius. My opinion of these guys is completely bias, I think they're awesome and are probably one of the best live bands I've ever seen and and are one of my favourite bands to date. 

Espionage is no exception to the rule. This is yet another completely competent record from these four guys. Its pure Punk Rock on plastic. Louis vocals are as manic as ever adding to the pace and Eddie's guitarmanship is equally flawless, and the same goes for Ellis and Tim. Its just great. My favourite track is "We Had A Gang", but all of them are equally noteworthy. 

Again, this is a must own.

J.W [Dire records]

Thee Vicars - ...Let Us Play 7" ep


These four young lads from Bury used to be in a Dead Kennedy's style punk band called the Punctuals who are actually worth a mention to. They moved from playing DK Hardcore and now play Garage Punk to a disgustingly high level. These lads are all competent musicians and it clearly shows in this record. They're worth seeing live too, just for the instrument destruction that occurs. 

The record contains 4 tracks and each one is brilliant, there really is no way to fault it. Reuben's vocals really help to set them with his very nasal whine. It really is play you guitars with legs akimbo at the knee's stuff. Its pure riffige from start to finish, really excellent stuff

Its really impossible to pick which tracks are the best because honestly I think they're all fucking superb. 

This is a complete must own for anyone who likes the Briefs, the Sonics or Thee Mummies.

J.W [Dire Records]

Warboys - Too Drunk To Skate 7" ep


So, after so long waiting it finally arrived at my door and was brought to me by the zombie like Weed Junkie that lives in the attic (he's kind of like our Lurch, but 100% useless and we have to pay him for the internet). Henyway, the first thing I can say about it is it's fast. Very fast, in fact upon my first listen to had reached the last track without me evening realizing. It churned through 5 tracks in about a minute. Its true Grind/PV to the max.

The A-side starts off with some soothing Operatic number which is ended with the sound of it being ripped across the needle before the NOIZE commences. In that briefest of brief minute that the A-side is, the Warboys manages to send a big fuck you to Metallica, a whole host of TV celebs and worships Japanese Thrash and Power Violence legends BREAKfast and Fuck on the Beach, before the title song Too Drunk To Skate begins with a rousing Gang Chant of "Im too fucking drunk to skate".

The B-side contains some amusing audio clips and some good lyrics about the fallacy of Punk, about masculinity and just some all out hatred. This sides a little ploddier and more Power-Violencey then the A-side which is much more Grind orientated. 

Charles vocals range from all out screaming to that Cookie-Monster style we all know and love delivering a punch to the songs. The lyrics themselves are pretty funny but the serious message still remains intact despite the casual nature of its approach. The instrumentals are pretty standard for a band of this type: Play it fast, Play it Loud, they do so brilliantly. Kai's drumming is unbelievably fast and the others do well to match the pace.

All in all, its a pretty good record. Its bog-standard Grind/PV and its enjoyable. If you're into bands like Fuck on the Beach or Charles Bronson, you'll enjoy this. Its not a must own, but its good stuff.

J.W [Keep Screaming/Beefy/Cat and Owl]

Thursday 22 May 2008

Miami Ink

Okay. This isn't exactly 'punk', but whatever. If you haven't seen this show it's basically a show where people get tattooed and talk about why they are getting whatever tattoo and why. It's filmed in a shop on 'South Beach' Miami, and from super-models, to that guy who played Jaz Hoyt in OZ to the SxE 4lyFe dude from H2O, Miami Ink caters for a large demographic.

I don't know what appeals to me most about this show; the fact that it constantly makes me think that my Mum might die quickly, or my Uncle might die in a burning house, or that my first child will be born blind?

It might be the 'PITCHFORK HARDCORE' shirts, the desperately stale acting, the fact that the Japanese apprentice puts a 'd' on the end of apprenticed, or that it's so badly synced that one time he has a mohawk and then the next shot he's got a full head of hair?

Nope. None of them.

I guess it's a light-hearted soap-type-show where you kinda follow the lives of some dudes that do a job they love, listen to Madball, party, and flirt with hot girls. Plus Kat Von D cameos are pretty good, as she has a strange attractiveness about her. I guess it's not the most mentally scintillating show out there, but it's something y'know that covers an alternative lifestyle. There's something about it that I really like, and I think that's just it.

Monday 19 May 2008

Black Flag - Live in '79 MP3


Right. This must be one of the earliest Black Flag bootlegs ever. It's probably one of their first shows as 'Black Flag' and it's got Keith Morris on vocals, and the sound is sketchy as fuck. So only download this if you're pumped especially on Black Flag - plus they don't even play Nervous Breakdown so that probably shows how early the actual recording is. This is for people who want a decent idea of the original discordant Black Flag sound.

Tracks:

1) Don't Care
2) White Minority
3) Spray Paint The Walls
4) Crowd Riot
5) Wasted
6) Revenge
7) Fix Me
8) Depression - Louie Louie

You can download this thanks to Mediafire, here: http://www.mediafire.com/?s11xpl5dyfy

Filip - Loud and Clear - Interview



I've you've never heard Loud and Clear, you're missing out. They put out an LP last year that is a fucking powerhouse, and reminiscent of a tougher and grittier early Justice. You can't really go wrong. After listening to the record over and over again I wanted to include them in this site, so I sent them an e-mail and got the questions I sent back, within hours. Here they are:

Nick: Why did you form Loud and Clear?

Filip: We formed LAC cuz the four of us shared a deep love for bands like Straight Ahead, Youth of Today, SSD and Agnostic Front. We also saw that bands who claimed to sound like YOT or the same style just sounded cheesy, too melodic and plain weak. If you dissect riffs of those bandS man…they’re HARD. Fast and straight forward, it hits you like a ton of bricks. LAC is also a full on straight edge band. Straight Edge is a big part of our lives, but not in the lives of many others, that’s cool. To each his own but we felt that there was a void to be filled and a point to be made. We are also the best of friends who come to together for the glory that resulted in forming Loud And Clear and recording the record.

N: Do you think you achieved all you could achieve with Justice?

F: I don’t know, we could have done more tours, probably a lot of them would have been with Blacklisted since we really saw eye to eye with them. And I really wish we had the chance to play the new songs more cuz we’ve put our heart and soul in the last recordings I did. The recordings of that record was probably the most intense thing I did in my life so far, it was brutal. Also the lyrics are really where my head was at the time…and I’m really opening my twisted brain. I wasn’t feeling that good I guess. Everything came out how we wanted it. We really went for it and went all out…it was insane. It was like we finally knew what we wanted to do and how we wanted to sound after 5 years of playing together, well me and Stief. But when I think of Justice I think me, Stief, Sike and Daan...Klaas, Geert or Bjorn selling shirts…nobody else. When I look to other bands I really have to say that we really connected on all levels to make this band work.


N: Now that Lintfabriek is over, are there any new places that shows are being put on in Belgium?

F: Kids are putting on shows wherever they can. But there is not really a place that feels like the Lintfabriek. Oh well, things change…it will bounce back.

N: You played Ninjafest last year, is there any chance of a UK tour any time soon?

F: I don’t know, should we?

N: So now Justice have split up, do you think that you'll be able to dedicate more time to Loud and Clear, or are there any other bands in the pipeline?

F: I’m not ready for a real touring band at the moment. Justice was a very busy band so I just want to chill out. Also all the other dudes in the band have other bands like Rhythm To The Madness, True Colors and The Reactionaries. I’m busy enough with POWERED RECORDS. We’ll play out once in a while, when the time is right. We might do a couple of weekends here and there, maybe even record a new record, who knows?! Stief is working on a couple of new projects… keep your eyes and ears open!

N: What is the main idea behind Powered?

F: The main idea is plain and simple. Release good records that sound and look good. Everything has to be perfect. I know a lot of you don’t know how much time it takes or thought that goes in every release. It’s hard work and it will probably never pay off. I don’t care…I love every second of it.

N: Top five bands out of Belgium right now?

F: Belgium: The Reactionnaries, True Colors, Rhythm To The Madness, Rise And Fall. World: ABSOLUTION, Trapped Under Ice, Blacklisted, Cold World, Union Town.

Thanks to Filip for being so efficient with the reply, if you wanna check out Loud and Clear go to their myspace page at www.myspace.com/loudandcleareu, or at www.poweredrecords.com
Photo courtesy of Face The Show, check out the site at www.facetheshow.com

Sunday 18 May 2008

Keith Morris in Blockbuster Movie SHOCKER!


So, my mate dragged me along to the cinema to see whatever was on the billboards this week, blah, blah, blah. We snuck into this shit looking film called Pathology, and err, it turned out to be, uh, shit. Stilted acting, desperately shit plot (similar to Dexter(ish)), and the lead Milo Ventimiglia is pretty much a Keanu 'How the Fuck Did I Ever Get An Acting Job' Reeves MKII. But that wasn't it...

They killed this hobo on the film, and it was Keith Morris! I nearly jumped out of my chair. I nudged my mate..."THAT dude used to be in Black Flag".

He looked at me with a blank stare. "Who the fuck are Black Flag?" he replied.
I slumped back in my chair and waited for the predictable ending. It came, and the film played out with 'Parade of the Horribles' by Circle Jerks. Why they didn't play 'Operation' I'll never know.

Awesome film.

Black Flag - Last Show '86 MP3 Rip


This is a live boot of Black Flag's last ever show on July 27th 1986 in Detroit, Michigan. The quality's pretty damn good, and the tracklisting's alright, although obviously not many classics there. Needless to say it's fucking awesome. I also can't remember where I got this. Check it on Mediafire.

1) Gimme, Gimme, Gimme
2) I Can See You
3) In My Head
4) Kickin' and Stickin'
5) Louie Louie!
6) Nothing Left Inside
7) Paralysed
8) Retired at 21
9) Society's Tease
10) This Is Good
11) White Hot

http://www.mediafire.com/?lngftuwmzj0

I've got a few more earlier Black Flag bootlegs I'll upload over the next few weeks or something.

Adolescents Live in Fullerton '81 MP3 Rip


This is a rip of a show The Adolescents did in 1981 in Fullerton. The quality's not amazing, but it's good enough. It's also a pretty good wrapup of their sound at the time. It's on Mediafire for you to digest;

1) No Way
2) Self Destruct
3) Do The Eddie!!
4) No Friends
5) Word Attack
6) L.A. Girl
7) Democracy
8) I Hate Children
9) Kids Of The Black Hole
10) Who Is Who
11) Wrecking Crew
12) Rip It Up!
13) Creatures
14) Amoeba

I got this from Punks Not Profit blog which you should check out 'cus it's got a shedload of decent downloads. I've re-uploaded it to Mediafire for its longevity.

http://www.mediafire.com/?gxmbhmcygzz

Saturday 17 May 2008

Cold Ones -Demo

Cold Ones are from Liverpool, and they put out what I think was one of the best demos I heard last year (probably). They play really awesome couldn't-care-less hardcore punk. Saw them at Christmas dressed up as Father Christmas at the second last Abandon Ship show (R.I.P.) and they blew me away.

They sing about partying, getting drunk, stealing alcohol, pretty much everything I care about and they rip through some awesome guitar parts. I can't really think of anyone they sound like, but if you're into non-serious hardcore punk you can jump around and sing to, this is the shit you're after. Even my non-punk liking Indie-type mates love it.

You can download it here: http://coldones.co.uk/download/CrackIt/

Thursday 8 May 2008

The Many Angers of James Reatard...


This is a photo of when Jay Reatard suckerpunched some dude in the face. Awesome photo, and the videos are underneath. There's also a video of him kicking some dude in the face for falling on stage. What a cool dude.

Punch - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zOA8i9UnEQ

Kick - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRjoEtF--JU

Wednesday 7 May 2008

Downloading music, for free...

You've probably noticed that I've put up a few Mediafire links on this site. I've done this for two reasons. Either, I want to put up a sample of a band/musician for people to hear. Or I want to put up records that are OOP, or that you can't get on mp3 elsewhere. Because that, in my mind, justifies what I'm doing. What's the point of a record being OOP if no-one else can listen to it? Makes no sense. I also think, if it wasn't for downloading then I wouldn't have any Graham Coxon in my iTunes. - Nick

PS: This is not universal.
PPS: Check out this site for downloads, it's really good: http://deathtofalseblogs.blogspot.com/

Monday 5 May 2008

Vile - Solution LP


So you want a record that totally destroys the fuck out of everything you own? Get this. This is fucking VILE, and it's a record that crosses all the PC boundaries of punk rock. This record is for you. It's on Mediafire for your listening pleasure.

http://www.mediafire.com/?y1notdhf1uz

Disclaimer: I didn't do it, I don't care what they say.

Modern Life Is War, the end is....


It's a big shame that Modern Life Is War have called it quits and split up. A superb recording band, and even better live band, they will be sorely missed.

There was no bullshit with their sound, they carved out their own niche from a Black Flag cover band to an ingenious hardcore band whose sound really couldn't be matched.

Their first two full-length records really couldn't be beaten, and there was nothing bad about this band whatsoever. I know this is a bit lame but I honestly think that in 20 years Modern Life is War will go down with the Suicide File et al as one of the most definitive bands of this decade, and I'm lucky to say that I've seen them when so many others missed out. - Nick

Henry Rollins


So, I saw Henry Rollins about a couple of months ago, and I thought I'd post a little about him. I've been a pretty big fan of his spoken word things, and I'm a fan of anyone who can fit one hundred 'fucks' into an hour and a half and of course he was in Black Flag, so that's a pretty huge selling point for me.

I think the best thing about Henry Rollins is the fact that he turns unfunny anecdotes into funny ones is pretty impressive to say the least. I mean, who could make a burning Islamabad sound funny? Heneray can.

It's not funny in the way that Ross Noble, or Jack Dee (arguably) are, but he brings in his own slant on everything he says regardless of the actual comedic element.

I'm surprised that, over the hundred hours of different spoken word stories Henry has presented, he doesn't make anything up. I mean I'm sure he ad libs his way through many shows and probably most of what he says isn't the Holy truth, but what he seems to come up with seems pretty genuine. He covers topic after topic of, mostly, useless garbage and actually makes it sound interesting. I've uploaded a bit of his stuff below, so you can get a feel of what goes on at his shows...most of his stuff is available all over the internet anyway.

This is his Think Tank Spoken Word show:

http://www.mediafire.com/?yghfcy29jmv

Generic Disclaimer: You should download this as a sample ONLY, you should delete if you don't like it, or purchase if you do.

Thursday 1 May 2008

Blacklisted - Heavier Than Heaven, Lonelier Than God


Blacklisted, Blacklisted, Blacklisted...where oh where do I start with Blacklisted? Okay, this record's pretty good as 'hardcore hardcore' records go, and in all honesty it's got some really fucking cool parts. Intro riff to 'Always' for example, but it's got some pretty drab parts in terms of the fact that nothing really happens, and songs seem to drone on and on, and on, and on. I've got one of their former records, on wax, which I haven't really listened to because I always thought Blacklisted didn't really impress as far as other bands do. So I kinda ignored them. I was lucky to see them in Belgium at the Restless Youth/Dead Stop reunion show, and they blew me away. The crowd went crazy, and I felt, at that point, converted. But on record it's a bit, err, and huh all the way through, which for me isn't really enough. I guess some kids will adore this record, and a couple of my mates certainly do, but for me it's just an album that I'll listen to for a bit, and then forget ever existed... - Nick [Deathwish]

Monday 28 April 2008

I figures it would be a good idea to post a blog comment whilst I'm under the influence of alcohol. Regulations; so, apparently REGULATIONS are playing a couple dates in the UK coinciding with KILLED BY GUILDFORD festival/all dayer. I'm psyched 'cause Regulations are sick, and probably more fun than most bands. Enjoy. PLUS erm NEGATIVE APPROACH, INTEGRITY, COLISEUM, OUTBREAK and AGNOSTIC FRONT, are playing gigs (not together) in small venues including my home town over the summer(ish) period. WOW. GOTTA GO, SHOULD BE FUN.

My flatmate is also going to wake me up at 7.30 tomorrow morning 'cause I gave him aggro tonight about making out with some sketch Irish chick. YAY.
Okay, so...nothing of any substance has been posted on this site in a long time. So I figures I should write a comment, y'know just to keep the content up.

Firstly, I'm pretty stoked. Not only am I 20 tomorrow, yes, yes I do still look 15, but today I made a $90 Grave Mistake order. YES! It's the first time I've bought records in god knows how long, but I splurged and I'll suffer the consequences of my Uni sending me invites to debt meeting and threatening to kick me out of my room yadda yadda yadda. Anyway, what did I buy?

I bought, the new Smart Cops 7", which I will review as soon as I get it. Yeah. Should be really cool, considering the riffs are written by the same dude who did them in La Piovra, Ohuzaru and L'Amico Di Martucci. Plus we've heard the shit off the myspace. I updated my 86 Mentality records, and my Citizens Patrol records. I also bought the new(ish) Dirty Money seveninch. Yeah, from America. It sounds pretty stupid doesn't it. Over the pond, then back over again. Whatever, I don't care every UK distro seems to have it real expensive and it was only £2 over there.

Thirdly, I think, Trashfest is happening in the summer. Not only does it mean I can drink with my friends and act stupid under foreign law, I'm also going to see some rad bands. Masshysteri, Vitamin X, Dead Dirg, COUGH Negative Approach COUGH...as well as loads of others. Plus it's not going to be full of dweebs in green backpacks and This Bike Is A Pipe Bomb patch on their arse. COOL.

Wednesday 23 April 2008

Play It Faster Podcast Number THREE!

Tracklisting:

No Hope For The Kids - No Hope For The Kids (Swe)
Exploding Hearts - Modern Kicks (US)
Gorilla Biscuits - New Direction (US)
Radio Birdman - Snake (Aus)
The Wipers - Over The Edge (US)
Brutal Knights - Burlesque Is Horseshit (Can)
Career Suicide - Recipe For Disaster (Can)
Bones Brigade - All Go No SLOW! (US)
Slaughter ( & The Dogs) - No Way (UK)
The Shitty Limits - Social Disease (UK)
The Hives - Outsmarted (Swe)
The Adverts - Gary Gilmore's Eyes (UK)
Tranzmitors - Teenage Tragedy (US)
Black Flag - Revenge (US)
Limp Wrist - Complex (US)
Skitkids - Glajedodare (Swe)
Tear It Up - Live Fast, Die Punk (US)
Cold Ones - Minesweeper (UK)

Can be downloaded here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?4axg3djxngg

Friday 7 March 2008

Aflightoremember Discography

Aflightoremember is an acoustic act from Ipswich, Suffolk, and finally after a few years of hard touring, and recording the project, sadly, has eventually come to a close. I thought I'd take this time to mention that there will be a final discography (3xCD) release, availiable from Dead Ship records in the near future, tailor made by Marc for the person receiving the collection. Further details can be found at www.myspace.com/aflightoremember

Sundowner - Four One Five Two

So, I just saw Sundowner on tour with Mike Park; and it was absolutely outstanding. There was a good turnout, a fair few people singing, and a nice colourful environment in which everyone was similing, and in full appreciation in the music that was being played infront of them. Solo music is always so personal, which is why I think it's so good, and it offers a nice warmth that listening to Black Flag doesn't neccessarily do. Even punks need a break, like...

Anyway, this record is really great. I'm almost scared to review is cus I don't want to let it down. Either way I really wish I had, because the TLA covers on here are awesome. Even though you could tell that he wanted to distance himself away from TLA, as he slowly juggled questions about their future, he still gave the impression that Sundowner is simply a 'side project'.because it deserves so much. Every track is perfect, and although I don't have a lyric sheet because I got a Boot CD-R done by Chris himself, I know what he's singing about is important. I never really got into The Lawrence Arms, I always got them confused with Good Riddance when I was a kid, and I think the only song of theirs I ever heard was something to do with porno and snuff, which I watched on P-Rock.
This record is really good, it's not boundary-breaking, but it's certainly a keeper and has tracks that will make you smile and sing along, which for me, is all that's important.

If you're a fan of slightly more upbeat folk (<-- *shudder*) acoustic punk, then I suggest you check this out. - Nick [Red Scare]

Circles Takes The Square Interview


This interview is a little bit old now, but I don't think too much has changed from it and the answers are still gold.

Circle Takes The Square. Seminal screamo from Georgia. Drew was nice enough to answer some questions...



Marcie: First of all, how's everything going with you guys?

Drew: great, thanks for asking. we're in the process of writing a full length and sorting out other, somewhat "behind the scenes," issues that we have never really had time to address because of a busy touring schedule and a few other factors.
one example is that we've finally gotten a new website up and another example is the remixing/mastering of our demo and split seven inch material, which we plan on re-releasing as a cd/lp sometime early next year. which leads us to the next question....

M: You have recently re-released your original demo/ep, what were the reasons behind this?

D: well it hasn't been officially released yet, but the demo tracks are up online for download now. the physical release will be coming out relatively soon. the two releases that will comprise this re-release were relatively small pressings originally, and we get alot of requests for the material, so we've decided to just put it all on one record and make it available again.

M: How is the new material coming along? 'As The Roots Undo' was very concept based, are the new songs following in the same vein, or are they all separate stories and messages?

D: its coming along well. the songs are shaping up to include a few common themes, but they're being written in a way which allows them to stand alone when out of the context of the album. one of the songs we're working on now is the longest piece of music we've written, and contains a few different variations on musical themes within the overall framework.
its been a fun and challenging project and i'm getting excited about eventually performing it live.

M: Have you felt any pressure when writing the new material, due to the positive feedback that 'As The Roots Undo' gathered?

D: we're happy that as the roots undo has been relatively well received. the response to that record was beyond our expectations, and though there may seem to be some pressure at times, i don't necessarily feel that we need to "top" anything we've done already.
we're just focusing on making a few pieces of music that we want to hear and perform, songs to satiate our current musical hunger.

M: 'Non-Objective Portrait of Karma' was one of the highlights of 'as the roots'..., the layers, the structure were beautiful. How do you go about writing songs like that - are they ideas which are jammed, or is there a clear plan behind them?

D: its a combination of both approaches you mentioned, really. the process varies depending on the mood of the song we're working on, or each specific part of the song for that matter. sometimes there's a need for something cold and scientific to balance out a part that's warmer and more spontaneous. i guess its about balance overall, or lack of balance depending on what we're going for. this is a difficult thing to describe, mostly because the process is somewhat inconsistent. for me, the most difficult thing about writing music is deciding which part of music you want to be represented in a song.
a painting of a landscape is not the landscape, its a man- made interpretation of that landscape. i think songs' relationship to music is very similar. a song is not representative of the music that's floating around out there in the ether, a song is simply a snapshot of that organic body in one of an infinite amount of potential forms. its up to the musician to decide on how he or she wants to represent that infinite form. i may have veered from the topic...

M: You've made it pretty clear in the past about your views on your own government and a lot of the actions they take. Is it still a burning issue with you, are you still pushing to get your views heard?

D: i don't think we're as outspoken in the context of our band as we might be as individuals regarding current events, simply because we're a band and therefore made up of individuals with different viewpoints and concerns. these points of view can't really be easily lumped into a blanket viewpoint, so we tend to not really define circle takes the square as having any one stance, necessarily. but we have made a few myspace posts here or there about certain topics of concern when we've felt so compelled.
i think they maintain a huge amount of neutrality, though. i guess one thing that we standfor as a band is for people to be proactive- there's so much amazing information available to everyone and sometimes people just need a starting point on how to find out what they're looking for.

M: Have you any plans to bring your art over to the UK as exhibitions?

D: ha, maybe someday. right now my main focus is finishing the new circle material!

M: And finally, any plans to come back over to the UK at any point?

D: again, finishing the material for our new full length is the only thing on our agenda right now, but once that's done we will certainly be getting back on the road and the uk sounds like a lot of fun.
--

Marcie