A few new developments for this issue. One is that Will Risk is helping me out by doing some of the reviews. He runs his own tape label (Risk…duh!) and shares my love of the format. Also, this selection of tapes (of mine anyway) has been so damn good…..not too much noise core, not too much pop punk with bio, it has been a pretty consistent barrage of good, fast, high energy thrash, youth crew and grind core. I don’t know if this means punks are getting better at playing their instruments, or if the crappy bands have stopped sending in their stuff. Bulks of these tapes were bought on tours I went on (Brasilian tour supplied quite a few) as well as just buying em at shows, or having friends buy em for me from local shops. So there are quite a few international tapes this time around (“international” for you American and European kids) so start emailing, writing letters and getting turned onto FOREIGN hardcore. And as always, I forewarn ya that I like a lot of styles of raw punk, so while you may like youth crew, you hate grind. While you love grind, you cant stand wimpy punk. Well, I like it all, as long as it comes from the heart, is done DIY and shows some sincerity. So with that in mind, read these short reviews with some discretion.
Max’s Top Something or other:
(no particular order)
GEORGE HARRISON
PESMENBEN IV
ATAQUE PERIFERICO
DUDMAN
THREATENER
THE SHRUBBERS
CROW DRAGON TEA
FORESIGHT
FxPxO
V/A- Faster Than Ever Comp
NO VALUE
Will’s Top Something or other:
Abi YoYos Demo
Treason Demo
Razlog Za Tape
Lights Out Demo
Out of Vogue Demo
Call the Police Tape
Infestation of Ass Demo CDR
M.O.T.U. Tape
The Lumps Demo
Failure Face Tape
Stockholm Syndrome Tape
StabxYouxInxThexHeadxAndxEatxYourxFacexOffx Demo
E.T.A. Tape
Ripped to Shreds Demo
TEKKEN - CDR
28 songs of fast raw thrash mixed with blast grind parts….but this is not grind core, its just plain old hectic hardcore at its best. Covers of Reagan Youth and an old Beastie Boys songs. Good shit…. Skud-rds@voila.fr
DUDMAN - Tape
After countless demos, DUDMAN return with yet another scorcher….while their older style was more power violence style, this demo is just straight up raw hardcore thrash….super dirty, distorted, but raging. They have always been super tight and known for their skill at playing fast thrash, so you still have those elements within as well. A damn good tape…. Mikuni, #202, 5-27-18, Himonya, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan
DECEMBER 12 - Straight Attitude Demo
Heavy NYHC hardcore from Japan, 3 songs in all, all of which are the 25 TA LIFE meets HATEBREED style. Not bad, just not really my cup of tea. http://member.nifty.ne.jp/hiraim/1212/
MAGRUDERGRIND - CD
9 songs of fast tech grind from Maryland…..songs about religion, oil war, pollution, etc….a heavy influence from PIGDESTROYER on this one (guitar, vocals, drums only)…this is damn good. Grind freaks pick this up….. www.magrudergrind.tk
RAZLOG ZA Pro Tape
I first found out about this band from the 625 “Four Corners” comp, and was so anxious to hear more. So when I saw this tape in the review pile, me and Max got into a fistfight over who got to review it. I ended throwing a few boxes of 7”’s out the window. The tape does not disappoint. I only realized after the end of the second song that this is a live recording, because I heard applause. I couldn’t tell because the sound quality is good, and the band is tight as shit live. This band from Croatia plays thrash that sounds pretty much like sped up youth crew. Can’t tell what they’re singing about, since the lyrics are all in a language I don’t understand. This band is so good, and this tape is, as well. ivan.barbic1@sk.hinet.hr
REACHING FORWARD Pro Tape
Wow, cool! A really nicely done tape compiling REACHING FORWARD’s LP, split EP with ENSIGN, split EP with BLOODPACT, and unreleased track, and a live set. If you haven’t heard them, what better way? This band rules. Positive youth crew played pretty fast. Like a lot of Euro sXe bands, they differ from US ones. They’re lyrics are less…stupid. Euro youth crew is definitely the way to go. Check it out! Refuse c/o Robert, PO Box 7, 02-792 Warszawa 78, POLAND, xrefusex@go2.pl
REGRES Pro Tape
This band from Poland plays decent sXe youth crew hardcore. It’s way positive most of the time. I’m not loving it, but if you love all that is straight edge, you will dig this for sure. Refuse c/o Robert, PO Box 7, 02-792 Warszawa 78, POLAND, xrefusex@go2.pl
RIPPED TO SHREDS Demo
A new demo. Righteous thrash hardcore from these Bellingham, WA folks. CHARLES BRONSON-style down to the excellent sound clips. Recording quality, especially on side B, could be better. But that’s not what this is about. Fucking excellent shit, and like most of this genre about ten times better live. Good lyrics, good songs, plus a LARM and YOUTH OF TODAY cover. xbhamwolfpackx@hotmail.com
RUN A MUCK Demo CDR
Not to be confused with the better known RUNNAMUCKS. I couldn’t get into this. Pretty fast stuff with growled vocals. Kind of repetitive and dull. Not imaginative enough…I know that’s a lame thing to say. Just doesn’t register with me. (No Address)
GEORGE HARRISON - Demo
I love getting tapes from far away places…This is a fast thrash band from Moscow Russia…..earlier (I think last issue) I reviewed a split tape from INFECTED SOCIETY and FATE TO HATE (also from Moscow) which was awesome fast hardcore recorded on a 4 track….that was my first introduction to versions of fast hardcore from Moscow….this tape is comparable to anything you hear coming out of the US or Western Europe these days….fast, well written songs, a Negative Approach cover and some Charles Bronson-esque graphic hijacking. The songs are good, the playing is tight……all around awesome. I do this zine so people will hopefully order tapes from far away places….so here’s your first assignment. Gxhx@fromru.com
MASS MEDIA PROOF - Demo 2002
Heavy mosh metal from Russia…yet the lyrical style reminds me of RDP from Brasil, yet the music is straight up HATEBREED. I don’t have any contact info, but try to do a search on the net to see if you can find any info about them.
HARRY BALZAGNA AND THE TEENIE WEENIES Demo and Demo CDR
A band of youngsters that my friends in LA have been raving about. The first demo is what sounds like a boombox recording. On this tape, they play pretty sloppy mid tempo punk rock with a little hardcore mixed in. Really cool nasal vocals and a BLACK SABBATH cover. The second demo is the same stuff, basically, except tighter and recorded better (probably a 4 track recording). Goofy sometimes (you might be able to tell by the name, and teen angst lyrics. I seen a live video, too, and damn this band rules. harrybalzagna@hotmail.com
INFESTATION OF ASS Demo CDR
I was told that this band shares members with the late, great KUNG FU RICK, so my expectations were high. And guess what? I was not disappointed in the least. In fact, this totally kicks butt. What we have here is a band that is more straightforward and rougher than KFR, but really great. The songs are interesting, the vocals are awesome, and the music is played with passion and intensity. Thrash beats, blast beats, hardcore, a touch of melody at times, it’s all here. Vinyl soon? I hope! picklehd18@aol.com
IRON LUNG - “Comedy Hour Live” Tape
A legit release from IRON LUNG, the Reno/Oakland duo who has won our hearts with their brand of fast hardcore. This is a tape recorded live in October of 2001 at a place we used to have shows at, called Burnt Ramen. The band plays a good set with some humorous between-song banter, and the recording is good. 100 made, so find one quick or miss out. Enterruption, PO Box 884626, San Francisco, CA 94188
LIGHTS OUT Demo
Good fucking tape from members of various Bay Area/California bands, including THE LAB RATS, OVER THE TOP, DEAD IN THE END, and FOR THE CROWN. This band is brand new (haven’t played a show yet) and they are strongly reminiscent of a certain CARRY ON, although lyrically maybe more like EMBRACE TODAY. I really fucking like this tape, and am way impressed that this tape was recorded after only 5 practices. If you like your youth crew…existent, then you’ll for sure like this. They do it damn well. puke74@aol.com
NERVI Demo
NERVI plays some really cool unique sounding hardcore, which draws from metal, punk, grind, and that whole bag of potatoes. I catch parts that remind me of ECONOCHRIST, then parts that remind me of RORSCHACH, then parts that remind me of HERESY. It’s all over the place, but comes together real well, like music should. Thoughtful lyrics, with few cliches. Well recorded, nicely put together. Check this out, it’s awesome. Nervi, c/o Villa Occupata, Via Litta Modigami 66, 20161 Milano, ITALY
NERVOUS WRECK Demo
A fine tape. A boombox recording of this sloppy sXe punk hardcore band from Southern California. Damn this band kicks butt. They have personality and energy and I bet they are all about the live show. Pretty sloppy, but all the shit that counts is here. Get this demo! Egg, 6529 Stafford Ave., Huntington Park, CA 90255
ON ALERT Demo CDR
A band which apparently shares members with NO TIME LEFT, a band I like very much. This band plays hardcore at times very fast, at times midpaced. Cool vocals make this special, and some damn good breakdowns. The recording has a live feel to it. I really like the lyrics, and there were a few songs on this CD which hit me right here. projectgrizzly716@hotmail.com
OUT OF VOGUE Demo
I don’t know why everyone isn’t going apeshit over this band. LA’s OUT OF VOGUE writes some of the catchiest hardcore songs a la early MINOR THREAT or BLACK FLAG. Real stripped down. This demo is pretty old, and the new stuff dwarfs it, but this is damn good, too. I think their singer Greg is one of my favorite singers to watch in hardcore, no joke. Great folks, great eats, great band. Nice packaging on this tape, too. Watch for vinyl. outofvogue@hotmail.com
POLICE BEAT Demo
Decent fast hardcore that sounds like a more metal TEAR IT UP, at times. Lots of youth crew back up vocals , and a New York feel to it. A solid tape, just not totally my style. xshaneofstrengthx@hotmail.com
SEWING CIRCLE Demo CDR
Great name for a hardcore band…I figured it was going to be from Japan. Really low growly vocals over pretty mid tempo punk rock. There are interesting bits, but tonight I can’t get past the super serious lyrics about MTV. I mean, MTV sucks, but…who hasn’t enjoyed COUNTING CROWS at least once? In the words of Ebro/PUNCH IN THE FACE “So TV is this evil thing that will sap my will and destroy my mind? It will always be more entertaining to me than listening to you assholes bitch and whine.” I really do like the name. 2352 Brandt Village, Greensboro, NC 27455 USA
HOPE DIES LAST / ZUNAME Split CDR
Not really a split CDR, but that’s how it was recorded for me. HDL is ripping youth crew from Latvia that is somewhere inbetween X-ACTO and BATTERY (or maybe in my twisted world). They do have heavy breakdowns here and there, but they mainly rely on the fast youth crew pace. ZUNAME from Moscow is snotty hardcore punk with some great vocals..catchy three chords, harmonies here and there….basically damn catchy and punk at the same time. Again, no info for either of these bands, but for your own good, do a search and see what you can dig up on the Russia (and ex-Russia) punk scene.
BREAKWAR / UNDONFORM / NOT FOR MEN - CDR
Another CDR filled with Russian hardcore…BREAKWAR are hard metallic HC with low vocals (a little NYHC mixed with Clevo)…the UNCONFORM tracks are live, and they play new school hardcore with screamed vocals…dare I say a little mix of metal and screamo? NOT FOR MEN play new school youth cre as well with tons of melody and leads. Again, no contact info, but do a search…….
MIND OF ASIAN - Demo
Ok, the cover looks like its going to be new-age Krishna music, but this is an all girl fast thrash band from Japan that kicks much ass….mix a little ROMANTIC GORILLA with just full throttle thrash and you have MIND OF ASIAN. The first song is the strongest, but all 3 are pretty rad…so much so I asked em to do something. Email: lotus-ichimi6@k7.dion.ne.jp
WHEN GOOD ROBOTS GO BAD - Demo
Don’t be afraid by the name (I thought it was gonna be some Locust thing) but its roughly recorded, yet good fast power violence on the verge of noise at times kinda core…..good and raw. No contact address damn it!
KNIFED - Demo
Ok, I gotta meet Mero first of all. I have never written to him before, but all his bands and the stuff he sends me perplexes me. This is awesome hardcore with a strong gay-in-your-face stance……not to pigeon-hole, but the music reminds me of LIMPWRIST as well. Good, 4 chord hardcore……I think there is a CD out now with multiple bands that Mero was in..l.including this demo. Po Box 6591, Dunlaoghaire, Co-Dublin, Ireland
SALIAM ALEIKUM / PEOPLE, HC, GOD and ME - Split CDR
Both bands hail from Russia…..S.E. is a mix of mid-paced hardcore punk with some various bass-drum jamming and some SABOT styled songs. Original for sure, but good. PHGM is more arty, but they utliize the same format…bass, drums (I believe it’s a drum machine). Since I know hardly nothing about what’s happening in Russia and the former Soviet Republics, I’m intrigued by this…… ZZZ Records: http://zedrec.marod.ru
PESMENBEN IV - CDR
30+ songs of fast-ass hardcore from Ecuador. Some of you might know the EDM material from the Barbaric Thrash Comp Vol III, but PIV is more straight forward fast punk than EDM…..this disc is rad. If you are a fan of plain fast hardcore that is pissed off and no bullshit, check this out. Write em at: Elpipo@minorthreat.com
SPACE TO BEING - CDR
I’m surprised by the above average ness of most of the tapes and cdr’s this month….this is frantic hardcore, grind core, goofy punk, everyting played with skill and tighness…..hailing from the Czech Republic. I checked their website (since I don’t have any info with this cdr) and it looks like they have a few splits coming up so keep an eye out. In the meantime: http://spacetobeing.wz.cz
DEAD STOCK CRUSHER - CDR
Pissed hardcore from Canada that has a slight metal quality, but it is pretty over the top hardcore punk….not too fast, not slow, just right down the middle. No lyrics so I don’t know what’s being sung about, but the 6 songs on this are pretty damn good. Not to be confused with fellow Canadian DBC. Mess666@hotmail.com
BANGSAT - No For This Insane CDR
Not really a demo, but a pro CD from Indonesia. Fast yet sloppy thrash (power violence…) with political lyrics. 15 songs in all, all of em fast and furious. Asusilarecords@yahoo.com
COLOSS - Advance CDR
No address so I can’t remember where this came from (Europe I believe, I just can’t remember what country)….heavy-ass hardcore like RINGWORM meets INTEGRITY. Actually really good for the style that it is. No lyrics so I don’t know what they are yapping about, but I can only imagine mad-kick boxing hitting me in the face at one of their shows. Mvhc_coloss@hotmail.com
ATAQUE PERIFERICO - CDR Demo
Damn, this is awesome, a little like SCRAPS or X-ACTO or even their fellow countrymen, DISCARGA. Its fast, no metal haredcore…all 8 songs are blazers. Get this now. Ataqueperiferico@bol.com.br
THE LEVELING - CDR Demo
It starts with a mosh riff so I’m thinking its NYHC or something, and then it kicks into 1000mph screamed hardcore…pretty fucking awesome. Maybe a little (old) RINGWORM I think, has those metal parts and double bass, but when they kick it full bore, its rad. Good lyrics and a good amount of songs too. Aogfc@yahoo.com
THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD - CDR
Samples, drum machine, electronics, noise kinda stuff. I suppose interesting for those who like the style…would imagine funner to make it then to listen to it. No contact address
VARANT MAJARIAN - CDR
Weird thrashy crossover with vocals that are original, the music is pretty good…..I would be more into this except for some really stupid lyrics like Cum on her face and stupid shit like that. 7438 Etiwanda, Reseda, CA 91335
DON AUSTIN - Advance CDR
Good, raw, driving hardcore punk rock…showing a progression from their earlier recordings. This recording seems to flow better and the over production is thick and works well. I think this might turn into either an EP or a CD…so I would watch out for it cuz its ripping. Write em at: bleach mouth@hotmail.com
WASTOID - Advance CDR
Their LP is one of the best grind core records I’ve heard in a long time..plus their live shows are fucking mayhem……so I was stoked to hear some new songs….crazy, weird-ass mix of grind, power violence, but all focused on brutality and speed……check it. Loschincos@hotmail.com
CREAGRUTUS aka TOSIEZETHE FLESH - Demo
First song is sludgy doom core that reminds me of some NO LESS at times, I forwarded through it and the later songs are fast grindy hardcore (mixed with some acoustic quiet parts), with low vocals or high pitched….with an unusual and original style. I know I’m biased, but this sounds like NO LESS or something at times. Cool. Creagrutus, 1911 S. 8th St., Lincoln, NE 68502
ON THE ATTACK - Demo
Pretty good, loose fast hardcore…..vocals are a little off, the music sounds like its gonna fall apart..but manages to hold it all together, just how I like it. Not the best, but a good start. Plus isn’t playing the flavor of the month…just good old plain fast hardcore with screamed vocals. 680 Murphy Ave, C12N, Atlanta, GA 30310
DESTRUCTIONS END - Demo 2003
Fucking awesome crossover from dudes who have been doing it for years (in multiple bands before DE)…there are 4 songs of rad fast crossover (fans of Municipal Waste take note) plus a cover from Beyond Possession. Fucking awesome….. Dri_guy@hotmail.com
THE DEAD - CDR Demo
Heavy hardcore, with some over the top Back Ta Basics style vocals on this….this is more fast hardcore than just straight up NYHC, but the vocals make this sound pretty pissed. While it reminds me of FINAL EXIT from Sweden at times, it doesn’t have the light heartedness that they did, nor the :10 second blast songs. But this is still good. Sorry no contact addie, Germany
DIBORCE - Demo
Have no idea what that is supposed to mean, but this is BRUTAL-ass dual vocal grind core from Japan….if your into mid-90s death metal meets grind core….these guys pull it off well. Plus the recording is just raw enough where it doesn’t sound too polished…… Nolife2@fc.freeserve.ne.jp
SIN REMEDIO - CDR
I met this new band in LA and was overcome by how cool and enthusiastic they all were….this CD contains songs that are mainly fast thrashy punk rock (songs 2 and 3 stand out as strong ones) with a few longer songs that have slower intros, etc. I believe this is the first effort so I’m stoked to hear (and see em) more in the future. www.geocities.com/sinremedio02
BLAC EYE CLUB - Join The Club Demo
A band Stephe Perry turned me onto, RAD fast hardcore that is lacking in nothing except metal….most songs average 1:00.…just flat out rad. Can’t believe that I haven’t seen 18 Eps by these guys out by now….ripping. http://blackeyesclub.tripod.com
OKTOBR - CDR
5 songs from this Umea hardcore act….first songs starts out with some Scando-D-beat riff, but the later songs blend a little thrash, a little d-beat, a little ecclectic mix of harmonies at times…Pretty much, these guys know what they are doing, and these 5 songs are fucking awesome. If I didn’t know better, I’m sure this is ex-members of someone since you can’t just pull songs this good out of your ass. Ad@umeahardcore.org
CARDIAC ARREST - Demo
4 songs of fast, raw, snotty hardcore that reminds me of GSMF at times……fast paced and raw with some great gravel-y vocals. A little Choke maybe? Damn, this months reviews have been smoking so far, I think HC kids have taken their vitamins or something! Rob@2keyindustries.com
TORNADO OF KNIVES Demo CDR
Early 80’s sounding hardcore with a real BLACK FLAG sounding guitar tone, and all that. The lyrics are heavily skate themed. In fact, every song on this demo is about skating. It’s all pretty damn good, flows real well. No tough guy vibe here, thank good. I could definitely do without the “one sheet” which was pretty cheesy and stupid. But a good demo, here. Vinyl soon (tracks on an Element comp, and EP on Deadalive). brokenmanrecords@hotmail.com
TREASON Demo
A great tape here that I have become hooked on. This band, out of San Francisco/Bay Area has members of BREAKER BREAKER, THE LAB RATS, and DEAD IN THE END. Has been described as a hardcore SWING KIDS, although I think it sounds similar to some newer bands: PANIC, SOME GIRLS, with a definite AMERICAN NIGHTMARE influence. Some have objected to the lyrics, which share more with bands like THE BLOOD BROTHERS. I love this fucking tape. wrongcoastkid81@hotmail.com
RETALIATION PROJECT - CDR
6 songs of screamed modern (grindy?) hardcore complete with some progi-Neurosis parts and just staright up original song structures (ie,. These guys like JAMMING). But don’t get me wrong, they don’t trade in the rawness for prog. Get more info at: retaliation project.com
STILL STRONG - CDR
Hailing from Yugoslavia (I could be mistaken) is STILL STRONG….playing fast thrashy youth crew (as you could probably tell from the name) but with more flare than the standard fare…..I dig it since it’s a DIY recording plus they tend to pick up the pacer faster than most. Only thing I can’t read any info on the CD booklet, so I don’t know too much about them or how to contact them. No Address
REACT - Coolection Tape
Released in Poland, this is pretty much everything REACT did. Comes with a huge fold out poster, sounds quality is top notch, and if you haven’t REACT…mix a little DISRUPT with NAUSEA and you have some screaming crust. Masowa Kultura, Po Box 51, 07-200, Wyszkow, Poland
S41 Demo #2
This is crazy…..think IDOL PUNCH meets DILINGER ESCAPE meets who knows…..style blend and the execution is perfect on this. I would love to see them live to see how they pull off some of these songs. Aditatsu@plum.plala.or.jp
TAB/HOLY SHIT/BLUE BALLS - Tape
Produced from the same group of friends in WI….TAB is funny hardcore about soda, HOLY SHIT is pretty ruling fast hardcore (NEOS anyone?) and BLUE BALLS is acoustic one man show……weird ass shit! But the TAB and HOLY SHIT rule. Check it out…… 618 N. Ashland Ave, Green Bay WI 54303
DRUGS OF FAITH - 2 Song Demo
Ex-ENEMY SOIL playing heavy ass hardcore with a drum machine. I can stand the drum machine on this since the music covers the artificial sound of the drums. Only 2 songs, but I’m sure Rich and Co. have some stuff brewing. PMB# 570, 21010 Southbank St. Sterling, VA 20165-7227
MASTERPEACE / CORW DRAGON TEA split Tape
What a weird one….MASTERPEACE are melodic new school youth crew….a little too polished for my tastes, but still good…while CDT is fucking awesome, spazztic hardcore, that mixes some really well written melody with some fast thrash. Great. CDT: dyupon96@yahoo.co.jp
SBV - Demo
Ripping hardcore from San Diego..was thoroughly impressed. The recording is raw, the music/vocals is somewhere between Uniform Choice and modern thash bands…with above average lyrics as well…especially “if Lyrics are Promises.” I’m stoked on this band and hopefully will see em live soon. 4419 Louisiana St. #3, San Diego, CA 92116
A.S.K.- -Virgin Shock Demo
4 song rehearsal demo from Japan that is straight up 4 chord punk…..snotty vocals (male and female), 3 chords, mid paced beats…..P.U.N.K. a.s.k.-kayo@docomo.ne.jp
THE LUMPS Demo
Fucking phenomenal grind thrash hardcore which shares/d members with the also amazing HATEMAIL KILLERZ. Not so far off. This keeps me on my toes, lots of changes and fucking unbelievable drumming by drummer Alex, along with some really cool vocals, which go all out. This sure to please any fan of spastic and crazy hardcore, and sure to annoy your coworkers. deadlump@emptymail.com
MUKEKA DI RATO Advance CDR
MDR is truly exceptional. It seems like you only find bands like this coming out countries besides the United States. MDR is a band that goes from grind to reggae within one song, and makes it sound totally cool, and not cheesy. Another song is more straightforward semi-melodic thrash. This band is so cool. I dig them for sure. Vinyl and such on Sound Pollution.
M.O.T.U. Tape
Wow, this rules. First off, the cover has a drawing of some goblin looking thing cutting off the head of George Bush. Second, this thing is funny as shit. The band’s english is not top notch, but all the lyrics are in English. The lyrics don’t make much sense a lot of the time, but they do rhyme, and they’re really funny: “No matter what you day, your mental diarrhoea, won’t infect my mind—no way!” (sic). Third, the music is super fast thrash with crazy chipmunk vocals, played with such intensity that this band is impossible to ignore. So much energy. So fuckin’ good. matze-ow@t-online.de
BRUTAL TERRORISM - Demo
Power violence as all…..basic three/four chord fast core from Japan….dual male/female vox…ripping. Perfect slot on a bill with F.O.B and SLIGHT SLAPPERS. They have a CD out already in Japan, so try to track that down or write them to get their goods direct. Brutalterrorism223@ezweb.ne.jp
NERVE NOT FOUND - CDR
9 songs of drum machine, spazzed out grind core….seriously this is all over the place. Heavy on the DILLINGER style riffs, heavy on the tempo knob being tweaked to “crack drummer” and fucked up samples all over the place. I can’t believe I’m going to say this, but I actually like this electro-noise grind. yasushi@owari.ne.jp
EVERBODYS ENEMY - Demo(s)
3 CDR’s infact, this is a pleasant mix of punk, hardcore, some melody and some other styles of the punk persuasion. The band is from Tokyo and has some gaijin members as well, and it looks like they have written quite a bit of songs. Barnaby Fuck U is a good one. www.everbodysenemy.com
CARA DE MIL PUTAZOS - Tape
Ok, I can’t remember who these guys are…but I know I know what their “real” identities are…this is full on BRUJERIA style grind core, to the T. About wrestling, blood and grind core. What more could you ask for…they are damn good at BRUJERIA style as well. Write em at: x0737x@hotmail.com
EVILSPEAK - Raw Reh 2002 Tape
Slow, sludgy crust from Japan…..the tape is subtitled “doomed black noise thrash apocalyptic hate human crust” to give you an idea. It’s mainly 3 chord slow-ass crust…like if Discharge was played on 17rpm. 2-44-1-302 Shimoigusa, Suginami, Tokyo 167-0022 JAPAN
ROCK GOGGLE FANTASY - Demo CDR
5 songs of snotty punk that at times is a little rock, a little punk….driving rock beats. At times reminds me of CRUCIFUCKS…I like the faster songs like Kamakaze Limo….. Po Box 71, Manhattan Beach, CA 90267
EYESORE - Demo CDR
Holy shit…brutal ass tech grind core death metal from Singapore….super good and brutal. Fans of CRYTOPSY and the like take notice….best thing is lyrics are political and the project appears to be DIY, so it’s the best of both worlds. Fans of brutal grind, check this…. Eyesore@operamail.com
ROJO Y NEGRO- CDR
Hailing from Modesto (of all places! Rad!)..anarcho punk with dual female/male vocals (as well as English and Spanish). Some of the songs are still a little long (and basic) for my tastes, but just knowing that an anarcho punk band exists in Modesto is awesome. Rojoynegro.punkunderground.org
SET OFF - Go Thrash and Old School Demo
How can you fail with a title like that…guess what, this is fast youth crew from Sapporo, ripping to say the least. While the songs towards the end are your standard youth crew song style…the first song called “hold out” is a fucking blast of high speed fury….awesome! Junctures@hotmail.com
SANITYS DAWN - Demo
Ripping fast power violence, grind core, fast hardcore…whatever you wanna call it. Reminds me of FORCED EXPRESSION, QUATTRO STAGIONE or SLAVETSTATE or something. Crazy time changes, multiple vocal styles…and a little metal in there. Slick production, but works well with the tunes. Sven.horl@web.de
FOREVER YOUTH - Demo
Recorded at a practice space, this is fast hardcore that is pissed off, screamed and laden with feedback. What more could you ask for. www.foreveryouthmothafucka.com
CASE OF EMERGENCY Demo
From the folks who brought you FACES OF DEATH and TROTSKY ON ICE, comes CASE OF EMERGENCY, Millbrae’s latest answer to the weight of the world. Good mid paced punk rock hardcore stuff here from this three piece who are taking the 650 by storm. Some quick breakdowns I can feel. I like Bo’s song especially. Lots of skulls and stuff. Mmm mmm…somethin’s cookin’. sirthrashalot@hotmail.com
DEAD CITY Demo
Hardcore that’s hard to compare to other bands. Real quiet parts that build up to slower heavier parts, but not in a metal way. Lots of instrumental parts, and less vocals. Pretty interesting, but I had a hard time getting into it. I would definitely be into seeing them live, or hearing some newer recordings. DIYMEMPHIS@aol.com
DOPPLEGANGER Demo CDR
Don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say this is CHARLES BRONSON worship…not that that’s a bad thing. Everything from the music to the lyrics to the layout to the sound clips is heavily influenced by some goofy schmucks from the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I have seen this band live a few times and they fucking rocked the shit out of me. I can’t say the recording is as good as their live show, but then when is it in hardcore? The sound quality wavers and the band isn’t as tight sounding as I recall. But still this is some damn fine fast hardcore happening. I look forward to more. 5568 Pinehollow Rd., Concord, CA 94521-4835 USA
FORTITUDE - Demo
Basic but rad crust/grind core from Nara (!) Japan of all places. Mainly staying in the mid-paced low-tuned crust arena with a few bouts of blast beats here….the vocals drive this one over the top though. Abe, 3-2-18 Midori Gaoka, Heguricho, Ikomagun, Nara Japan.
RACAK - Demo
9 songs of good old fast paced crust core…..this is the style that I prefer compared to the newer, more melodramatic-metal stuff that seems to be popular these days. This sounds like ENT meets DISRUPT meets some really good guitar equipment. Good stuff, check em out. Sohandmaul@so36.com
CEREBRAL TURBULENCY - Demo
What a great name…have no idea what the hell that is though. This tape is straight up grindocre, well recorded, multiple vocals styles (including the essential low pitch shifter)…I would say CARCASS minus the full on blast beats and gore topics. Good shit man… Insane Society Recs, Po Box 6, 501 01 Hradec Kralove 2, Czech Republic.
xSTABxYOUxINxTHExHEADxANDxEATxYOURxFACExOFFx Demo
Some fucking cool shit going on here. Top notch powerviolence…or…just super fast hardcore stuff with really interesting guitar parts, which make this so cool, along with great drumming. Aaaah!!! It all works so well. The lyrics are mostly political, but with a sense of humor, which is great. Sample lyric: “If I still ate meat, I’d probably eat you, you’re a fake, you’re a liar, I’ll smear poop in your face”. Yes! I don’t like everything that sounds like this, but I dig this band in a major way. thexcorpsexgrindersx@hotmail.com
STALINGRAD Pro Tape
This band plays real well done produced metal hardcore stuff. Pretty fucking epic. They bring the house down. I mean, damn, I wouldn’t want to get in their way. Heavy on the early 90s “dark” heavy core, like early INTEGRITY. This is a collection of all their releases which came out of Malaysia. Yet, no address. Shit!
STOCKHOLM SYNDROME Demo
Awesome fucking tape from this San Francisco band. Fast punk hardcore that is catchy is shit and solid as hell with singalong choruses. Good fucking songs and great vocals from some British dude. A stellar live band, as well. Highly recommended. filthybones@yahoo.com
UZI SUICIDE - Demo
6 songs of fast hardcore thrash from San Luis Obispo….tongue in cheek lyrics are awesome, and the music seems to be high energy and very fun. The songs are recorded well (almost too well) but the energy is there on the recording for sure. I wanna see these dudes man! rat youth@hotmail.com
NO VALUE - 3 track Demo
This Japanese fast core band has been killing it for years and just now are they getting some releases out (finally!). Wait till you hear me….ripping fast core……write em and ask em about other demos they have. no value@sk8brding.zzn.com
DISCRETE CORPORALITY - Demo
I have no idea what that means…but this tape is fucking 5 songs of drum machine driven gore-grind core death metal…I would love it if it wasn’t for that damn drum machine…. Kanja@jp-n.ne.jp
FORESIGHT - Demo
Wow. Ripping fast hardcore that most definitely has a Jellyroll Rockheads influence…but enough difference to keep it fresh. They are screaming fast, but its straight up punk…….Only 4 songs, and the worst part is no contact info. I’m crying right now…. No Contact
ANTIGAMA / JAN AG Split CDR
Holy shit, Jan AG has a solo project..this is like, shit I don’t know….slow, drum machine weird industrial stuff (maybe like GGFH or something?), while ANTIGAMA from Poland are raw hardcore with a grind core mix..but without the cookie monster vocals. Cool. Dywizjakot@prm.pl
ANTIGAMA - Promo CDR
4 songs of, you guessed it, fast Polish grind core meets power violence (see above). The song “flies” is awesome. They apparently have quite a few things out, so grind freaks take not. Antigama@poczta.onet.pl
V/A - Realm of Grind CDR
From the same source as the ANTIGAMA/JAN AG split advance…this is a comp of all styles of grind core, from technical death metal to drum machine gore grind…..shiploads of songs, shiploads of grind core. Check it. Dywizjakot@prm.pl
KENT BROCKMAN - 99-02 CDR
A complete discography CDR of this German fast core band…..awesome out of control fast core. If you don’t have the demo, EP, split LP or the comp tracks, get this. Crustcoreviolence@gmx.de
SOLITARY NEGLECTS - Death and Destruction Demo
21 songs of crusty hardcore from Mass (but released on a Euro label) that is pretty good. I haven’t heard of them before..so I don’t know if they are still going or not. Covers by Gang Green and Discharge to boot…although if I had to do a comparison I would say something along the lines of DESTROY (minus the blast beats). Impregnate Noise Labratories, Bohdan Mach, Po Box 2, 76361 Napajedia, Czech Republic.
NEURONIOS A ZERO - CDR Demo
18 songs of rad, fast, high energy political hardcore from Brasil….songs are well written, played tight, and full of speed and time changes. Write em and get this…. Neuroniosazero@hotmail.com
MIND COLLAGE / DISEASE NOISE - Split CDR
Full color cover, full on grind core….MIND COLLAGE had an awesome demo and comp tracks from a few years ago…these tracks continue the tradition of raw, guttural, primitive grind core (ala FEAR OF GOD). While their older stuff was a little better, this is still good. DEATH NOISE, is you guessed it, drum machine noise mixed with grind core parts……possible a single person act? 2-27-12-406 Horinouchi, Suginami-Ku, 166-0013, Tokyo, JAPAN
PLAGUE RAGES - Aversao Tape
Not to be confused with PLAGUED WITH RAGE, this is the Brazilian grind core band..again released on a CZ tape label (keep it up Bohdan!)…Covers by ROT and AGATHOCLES let you know their influences, and while I’m a fan of grind core, I think you will need to be a grind enthusiast to really get into this tape. Not that they are bad, its just 19 songs of grind recorded DIYon a four track…. Impregnate Noise Lab, see above
HIBAKUSHA - Little Boy 8:15 Tape
Czech grind core/fast core…bust out 15 songs one of them being a Warcollapse cover. Was recorded in 2000 but is still available. I gotta figure out what is in the water in the Czech Republic to spawn so many grind core/power violence bands! Impregnate Recs, see above.
HANDICAP IN GERMAN - Demo
Minimalist, yet fun and obnoxious hardcore (dare I say power violence) from Hanford…the home of HATE MAIL KILLERZ, THE LUMPS and other champions of mid-cali brutality. While this is as good as the other aforementioned bands, if you dig goofy power violence recorded DIY, write em! 11951 7th Ave, Hanford, CA 93230
GODGRIND - Demo #1
Japanese noise core which is seriously one 23:00 long track of what appears to be guitar feedback mixed with other low frequency noises. Me no understand. Hrstmmt@weedmail.com
LOW VISION - LSR Demo
Good high energy skate thrash from Tokyo, while the demo was recorded on a boom box, it came out good enough to hear the good songs these guys play. No metal, no grind, just straight up good-old go nuts fast thrash….4 songs in total, can’t wait to hear these guys in a studio! Lowvision123@hotmail.com
LYCANTHROPY / NENI UNIKU Split Tape
Between Insane Society and Impregnate Noise tape labels…a grind core fan could get their life time fix! These guys are nuts! This time around is the Czech Republics LYCNATHROPY and NENI UNIKU….both play over 15 songs of well recorded DIY grind core (NENI UNIKU are more crust core style than grind) with covers by Warsore, Rot and my favorites, Despise You! Grind fans, take note! Insane Society, see other listing.
HARRY BALZAGNA and the TEENIE WEENIES - Who Farted demo
9 songs (plus two covers) of rad snotty hardcore punk rock…..from the same clan (actually younger brothers of..) YOUTH RIOT, OUT OF VOGUE, etc. What does this mean? Well, one, the world is doomed. Two, this demo is rad snotty hardcore that has ZERO metal. They just recorded for an EP and that recording came out awesome. Write em or whine when ya missed out. Harrybalzagna@hotmail.com
UNREST - Humanity Tape
Super fast anarcho crusty hardcore from Jakarta…ripping fast, super tight, well played and pretty well recorded. If these guys were from the US the record offers would be pouring in….write to the label and get turned onto a scene that puts ours to shame. Movement Records, Po Box 6371 Jksgu 12063 Jakarta Indonesia.
MORTAL COMBAT- 2001 Demo/ New Tape
MC hail from Indonesia and play power violence/grind core. The old tape is 3 songs of fast power violence while the newer tape has more songs and shows how the band has gotten better. There is a booming scene in Indonesia right now, so write em the email below and check out something new! human depravity@yahoo.com
DESPOT HUT
The style reminds me of Citizens Arrest (although I should say not as good as CXA, but what the hell is?)…7 songs of straight forward no BS hardcore…all songs averaging a minute or so. Pretty much how I like my HC these days…… Chris despot@yahoo.com
SPYMASTER - Tune Into Channel X Tape
Saw these guys in 2001 and they were rad…reminded me of SSD or something, and guess what, this tape is pretty much Discord, X-claim and Touch and Go rolled into one. Good, straight forward hardcore punk from Tokyo. Watch for some vinyl from these guys soon…can’t imagine that there isn’t anything in the works. No contact address, sorry!
V/A - VCD Comp
There are a lot of VCD (video cdr) comps coming from SE Asia, this one is from the CONTAINER CRUSTES FROM HELL (Holland) tour of the Philippines. This has all the bands who played at the show. VCD’s are an awesome way to check out what shows are like in SE Asia, and gives you the full picture of whats happening in other places besides your home town. This one might still be available from: sullen seed@hotmail.com
SEHAT DAN KUAT - Demo
A weird mixture of noise core (first song) to a 7 minute lounge jam for song two, to the last 3 songs of being fast hardcore mixed with blast beats…..this seems to be a fun and ecclectic band (from Indonesia). Check it out. Sehatkuat@lycos.com
ABRAXAS - Time Demo
5 songs of super raw grind core/noisecore….first song is just pure noise, but the others have some structure which is cool. If you’re a fan of RAW grind core….check this out. One of the better noise bands I’ve heard. But how can you when there is no contact address.
BANJAX - Tape
4 songs of super raw recorded punk rock from Japan….female vocals, unusual artwork, and a blending of styles makes this unique for sure. I don’t know too much more about them…but write to the email below and see for yourself. Shuko_peteena@nyc.odn.ne.jp
BELABOR - Tape
Black metal, but with more of a hardcore twist to it. Recorded rough so to keep that DIY sound, plus they do an ABIGAIL cover which never hurts! 10 songs in all. They are from the Bay Area so I’m interested in seeing them live. sub messiahs@netscape.net
PARKINSONS Demo 2002
I might have reviewed this before…..I have a million Parkinson releases, tapes, etc….Malaysian grind core/crust that is raw and primitive….have been around for ever and are on eof the better known Malaysian bands outside of SE Asia. For grind fans. broken vision@hotmail.com
FxPxO Tape
Ripping high energy hardcore from Macedonia…yes, that’s right…Macedonia! They mix it all up into something that is a little youth crew, a little thrash and everything in between…but always keeping the energy going full bore. Great tape, I highly recommend you get this! There are other bands popping up too in Macedonia, so keep your eyes peeled. Xfpox@freemail.com.mk or write the tape label at: Schandmaul Records, Po Box 610 617 D-10937 Berlin, Germany
MIND OF VISION - Demo #5
2 songs of death metal relying heavy on that reminds me of the first PARADISE LOST LP (when they were good) mixed with GRAVE. Good for being death metal, but with my ADD I can’t listen to 7 minute long metal songs. If you can, check this out….. Matsuda.of.vision@docomo.ne.jp
ROBO AFRICA - Soul Less CDR
I know I reviewed stuff from them before….they had been featured on a Yokohama Comp CD awhile back with some rad songs….this is 2 songs of fun, up beat hardcore punk rock that is raw and snotty. Music is fast, the vocals are very snotty and at times melodic…….The recording is very raw, but these two songs are rad. No contact address.
V/A- Faster Than Ever - Comp Tape
Ripping good comp tape from Indonesia……all the bands are awesome, ranging from full on fast core to just really good youth crew (like Confused). Couldn’t think of a better tape in this issue to turn yourself onto some great hardcore going on in SE Asia. Write em at: Hatred Records, Jl. Agung Raya 2 No. 3A, Rt. 008/07 JKSLA 12610, Indonesia. Xbogyx@hotmail.com
ASS O GORE - Anal Fist Capitalism Demo
Ok, so I thought this was going to be some Sockeye style good punk, but it turns out to be Amebix style metal crust (well, not too metal, but enough to deem it crust for sure)…hell they do an Amebix cover to boot! This band was from Canada and has called it quits, but if you’re interested: Stuart Morris, 148 London St., Peterborough, ON K9H 2Y5 Canada
LAST WALTZ - Demo
Crazy discordant hardcore, like DIE KRUEZEN riffs with early SST hardcore style. A great and refreshing mix of fast beats and unusual guitar riffs. Maybe they are doing something that has been done a million times but Im so out of the loop I wouldn’t know…..I think this is awesome. 4334 3rd Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
MASS GENOCIDE PROCESS - Demo
Bohdan has a band! The king of Eastern European grind core tapes (or at least the ones I get) band’s first demo. I heard the name for quite awhile, and while not to be confused with the old Japanese crust band (MASS GENOCIDE)….MGP play the same style, heavy crust core, not really so much on blast beats than just straight forward crust core. Good stuff. Impregnate Noise….see other listings.
HOLLOWED OUT- Tape
You would think CROSSED OUT galore right? Well not exactly, more of a fast core approach with screamed vocals, spaztic style stuff. 7 aongs in all, and although I like this, I think their next tape is gonna be ace. Cyclopean@hotmail.com
THE SHRUBBERS - Last cup of Coffee Tape
Holy shit…this is so good….from Wisconsin and the mid weest influence is just seeping from this tape (Zero Boys meets AOF?). Fucking awesome vocals (semi-melodic) over great hardcore punk circa 1982. I was totally surprised by this tape, especially the first song “Fix” is just awesome. Get it now. ____ Tapes, 2014A N. Buffum St., Milwaukee, WI 53212
DIMINUENDO CORRUPTION - Demo
Fast, raw power violence from Indonesia 14 songs in all…while not the best, still pretty damn good, and when taken collective with what else is going on in Indonesia now, pretty damn impressive. I don’t have contact info for D.C. but if you write to the other Indonesian tapes reviewed in this issue, ask about em.
LINE UP YOUR LIES - 3 song CDR
Tech metallic grind core….but emphasis is on tech…has almost more of a thrash metal influence than grind core. I would have pooped my pants in 1990, and while I don’t get the same effect now, its still enjoyable to hear this style played well. No contact info.
TEENAGE REJECTS - Complete Fucking Discography Tape
Punk fucking rock….no seriously, rock, as in really fast snotty rock n roll like late 70s punk rock….well executed, the sound quality isn’t all that great, but these guys knew how to write a damn good rock n roll song. Plus the tape is DIY…. ____ Tapes, 2014A N. Buffum St., Milwaukee, WI 53212
DIVORCE - Demo
Fast, raw dark hardcore from Athens Georgia. This combines fast crusty style with a more modern Prank sound (dark) which works well. I especially like the songs that keep the pace going fast. Good stuff… 140 Cohen St., Athens, GA 30601
FIDO’S BRUNCH - Demo CDR
Some of you might have heard these guys from the DENY THE REPORT CD comp from last year…this is awesome fast hardcore punk from Japan…no metal, no new school elements. Enough rawness to be high energy, enough melody in the vocals to keep it catchy. Rad. Just plain old good hardcore. Molei@wonder.ocn.ne.jp
JERKFRONT - Demo
Anthemic hardcore punk from Germany…..the music is very 1980, catchy choruses, using the basic punk scales, etc…while the lyrics are right up the old lefty alley. Nice change in my play list from boom box recorded noise core tapes. P. Baclet, Zwickauer Str. 25, 90491 Nurnberg, Germany
THREATENER - Follow the Blood Trail Demo
Holy shit……straight up fast core from Michigan…really well done. Remind me of HAIL OF RAGE or something. Just fucking brutal hardcore that is played at 1000mph. Ripping…only 5 songs, but all of em are sweeeeeeeeeeeeet! Mpriehsjr@emich.edu
SGT. SLAUGHTER - Its Still R’n’roll Demo
I can’t believe no one has used that name yet…but the name suits these guys well….really good mix of straight forward high energy hardcore punk and a little tiny bit of crossover (not by todays standards, but I suppose late 80s standards). Well written, well played, all around good. pogopunks@yahoo.com
THE ABI YOYOS Demo
Fucking top-notch punk rock here. Reminds me at time of a harder hitting YOUNG PIONEERS, musically and lyrically. Also ends up sounding a lot like LOS RABBIS style of sloppy as shit melodic punk, but with lyrics more political in nature, and less distorted. Maybe like if LOS RABBIS had never heard HICKEY, but were way into old school punk like MDC or DK’s. Some catchy as shit stuff. A great live band, no stupid posing, just pure fucking honest youthful punk rock. I love this band. abiyoyos@hotmail.com
xAMORx/GRITOS DE ALERTA – split tape
Two Brazilian bands that share members team up on this tape. xAMORx plays super good sXe thrashcore, although there is a lot of variation in the style…keeps it interesting. This band is over the top good. GRITOS DE ALERTA does the same kind of thing, just as well. Crazy good stuff here. There’s a lot of literature in here, too, wish I could read it (it’s in Portuguese). Terrotten Records, c/o Renana Favero, Box 8080, Porto Alegre RS, 9021-970, BRAZIL
APATHETIC YOUTH Advance Tape
A fine tape from these Southern California folks who impressed the shit out of me when they came up North. This is pretty straightforward thrash, somewhat melodic with really cool fucked up vocals. The songs on this tape sound basically like punk songs played super fast. Rules. AYIWHC@yahoo.com
BONES BRIGADE Advance CDR
13 new songs from a band whose EP I enjoyed. Eastern United States frustrated thrash hardcore with definite style. There’s some cool fucking guitar leads in there. Overall, I get a TEAR IT UP vibe, for sure. Kind of cool, it seems as if they recorded this as an LP, recording each side as a whole with no stops. (no address)
CALL THE POLICE Pro Tape
A new band from the Burdette brothers and some other Portland folks, but this sounds nothing like previous bands. I like this band so much. Really straightforward melodic punk rock, with few traces of any kind of hardcore. I play this tape all the time. The band sounds very similar to Sweden’s BURNING KITCHEN. If you haven’t heard them, maybe AVENGERS is a good point of reference. If you like gritty straightforward melodic punk (with female vocals), jam this one. Highly recommended. Ratpack Records, 4507 N. Gantenbein Ave., Portland, OR 97217
EFFEXOR Demo
Kind of tough to describe. Basically, a tape full of very faint background noise and static, helicopter sounds, ocean sounds. I think a lot of people would think this as total bullshit, but I’m actually pretty into it. When the synthesisers start coming in, I start to lose interest. Self described as “a response to the war on terror” amongst other things. I dig, you very well may not. kevorkianlovesyou@MSN.com
END IT NOW Demo CDR
Pretty straightforward, kind of awkward sounding youth crew influenced hardcore. Still, this has a definite punk feel to it. I can’t totally feel this, but it’s not bad, either. Their guitarist is named “Nacho”, and I think that’s beautiful. burningthelies@hotmail.com
E.T.A. Pro Tape
A professional tape compiling the bands “No Faith” LP and their tracks from the split LP with TEAR IT UP. E.T.A. plays sometimes-melodic thrash hardcore, and a lot of the time just punk rock, mostly in the vein of early MINOR THREAT and 7 SECONDS. I like them so much because the music isn’t just concentrated on being fast, and the lyrics keep a positive but realistic outlook, and most of all BECAUSE THEY SMILE! For the Kids, Dominik Wlodarczyk, Lokietka 6/73, 99-301 Kutno 3, POLAND, forthekids@go2.pl
FACE UP TO IT! Advance CDR
FACE UP TO IT, who you may remember from their rockin’ split with CRUCIAL SECTION, deliver seven new songs, which rocked the fuck out of me. Way good stuff that sounds a little MINOR THREAT, but also influenced by later NYC stuff (gang vocals and all). No tough guy shit, though. Fucking good! Look out for this band. nocomply@club-internet.fr
FAILURE FACE Pro Tape
Fucking awesome! A tape discography compiling FAILURE FACE’s tracks from the split LP with E.B.S., s/t EP, and split EP with ULCER. The band sounded similar to RORSCHACH, but not quite as metal, more just straightforward hardcore, and not quite as sludgy. Very NEGATIVE APPROACH a lot of the time. An awesome way to check out this great band, although you may have to mailorder it from Poland. Errr…. Masowa Kultura, Hubert Denis, PO Box 51, 07-200 Wyszkow, POLAND
FOR THE CROWN CDR Demo
A CD, which compiles both tape demos of this band who has been playing a lot around here in the past year. Cool kids playing really melodic hardcore, which might fit in with the likes of LIFETIME or GORILLA BISCUITS. The songs are really good if you are into super poppy hardcore. The vocals get to me sometimes, but I have heard a more recent recording in which I like the vocals a lot more. Total positive energy and good shows from this band. I dig, I dig. Vinyl soon. ForTheCrown@aol.com
FRANKIE HILL Demo
This band plays thrashcore heavily influenced by skateboarding, and more so, their disapproval of “New School” skating. All this stuff is news to me, I don’t skate. I think the lyrics lost quite a bit in translation, although…maybe not. My favorite song is “to emo to skate” (sic), which I have been trying to make sense of for a while now. No luck yet. frankiehillskatecore@hotmail.com
SHELL SHOCK Demo CDR
A band from New York, which is apparently ex-AWKWARD THOUGHT. Some pretty good punk hardcore stuff, catchy and all. Very MINOR THREAT, very NEGATIVE APPROACH. I bet this band’s vinyl will rock about 10 times harder, too. I dig. usscoot@yahoo.com
V/A – “The Best of Mero” CDR
This is all news to me, but according to Max, “Mero” is a dude from somewhere in Europe (I know that’s a lame generalization, but I can’t remember) who has been in bands from 1993 on. He is a large, hairy, gay man, and he makes quite a point of it. He has compiled a CD here of four of his bands. DR. SHITFACE is melodic hardcore, very unproduced, though, and raw. NOISE POLLUTION is midtempo hardcore, maybe like DISCHARGE or MOTORHEAD. CONTROL is similar, very growly vocals. KNIFED is the winner for me. It’s a straight up LIMPWRIST rip-off, down to the last bit. Comes with a very naked picture of Mero, and my favorite, a picture of Mero with Ray Cappo, over the caption “Me and my boyfriend Ray of Today”.
V/A – “The Icing On the Gravy” Comp
A truly excellent comp of 21 grind-thrash-powerviolence-punk bands from all over the world. I guess it had been in the works 6 or so years ago, but was only released last year. Good tracks ½ from bands I was more familiar with (ASSHOLE PARADE, FAT DAY, DEAD END, GODSTOMPER, PALATKA, PRETENTIOUS ASSHOLES) and ½ from bands I had never heard of (MRTVA BUDOUCNOST, WARSORE, CROOKED COPS, etc). A great way to check out a bunch of cool bands. Cool cover out and nice layout to boot. We need more well done tape comps like this. Pure fucking cool. Exposfacto, distro by Coaxt, PO Box 300536, Austin, TX 78703-0009
VOICE YOUR OPINION Demo
VOICE YOUR OPINION, of Oxnard, plays straightedge thrashcore with nice breakdowns. Lots of anger and also regret for not being able to see SSD and such. Quality of the recording makes it a little hard to listen to, but the jams are all there. Check it out! xthrashheadx@hotmail.com