First off, I completely overhauled the Grave Mistake webstore at the end of last month - while the layout changes are minor, this new webstore is now fully mobile! The previous store was probably a bit of a pain for anyone browsing or buying from their phone, so I decided to finally remedy that situation. Hopefully it makes things a little bit easier for everyone doing their webstore shopping on the go.
Next up, the debut 7" EP from Richmond's Nosebleed will be out on the Vinyl Conflict Label in a couple of weeks. It's up in the store now for a short preorder (100 on Purple Vinyl), and you can listen to or download the full EP on Bandcamp as well.
Nosebleed just finished up a southern US tour with fellow Richmonders Memory Loss, who just released their Blackout 7" on Vinyl Conflict last month. Both bands will be playing Be Bad Weekend 2017 this weekend here in RVA, so anyone that's going to be around town make sure you check them both out.
Finally, some quick tour news - Night Birds will be doing a Texas / Mexico tour in Mid-Februrary; Tenement will be heading to Mexico as well for a handful of shows at the beginning of March; and Asylum will be heading northeast for a quick weekend tour from Feb 1-4, hitting Baltimore, Philly, NY, and Boston.
GRAVE MISTAKE RECORDS - WEBSTORE UPDATE 1.19.17
For quick browsing of recent additions to the store, you can check out all of these titles mentioned below in the New Arrivals and Recent Restocks sections!
Starting 2017 off right with some killer new releases! Concealed Blade LP is a fucking scorcher, S-21 7" is top notch, some sick new Lumpy releases to get things going (Nosferatu 7" is a ripper for sure), Boston HC deliveres as expected with the Glory 12" and Depths of Reality 7", Uranium Club LP is the talk of the town, newer label Neck Chop records continues to churn out the hits, including four new ones this month so be sure to give em all a listen, Total Punk deliveres new singles from Lysol and Rik and the Pigs as well as a repress of the first Rik 7", essential hardcore reissues of Uniform Choice's "Screaming for Change" (getting the deluxe treatment courtesy of Southern Lord) and Beyond's "No Longer at East" LP courtesy of Revelation; and for those looking to get their late 70's dutch punk fix, look no further than the Ivy Green reissue and "I Don't Care" compilation!
That's not even all of it!! Check it ...
New in the Webstore for 1/19/17:
CONCEALED BLADE "S/T" LP (Beach Impediment Records)
All the way from the city of champions, CONCEALED BLADE follow up their massive 2015 demo with thirteen more tracks of the pummeling hardcore punk that those aligned with the Braddock Hit Factory have been churning out for many moons now; keeping the emphasis on quality over commonplace, riffs over a complete lack of riffs, and really just hardcore over horse shit. This 12" platter is evidence that THE BLADE still ain't for the weak and is just as precise and cutting in the execution of their songs as they've ever been. As a sage like man of wisdom probably once bellowed over a lukewarm bottle of Straubs and a half eaten pizza boat at the Rock Room, "YINZ WANTED DA BEST WELL YINZ GOT DA BEST!"
S-21 "Year Zero" 7" (Slugsalt Records)
S-21 is ripping, stomping and heavy hardcore punk from Philadelphia, PA. A true power house and one of the city's best hc/punk acts. I personally love the dirty, gritty and stompy hc/punk style but what really captured me was the almost WB2D/Severed Head of State guitar solo that rips through the opening track. The vocals compliment the music well, rough and gravely. 4 song EP and not to be slept on!
URANIUM CLUB "All of Them Naturals" LP (Fashionable Idiots Records)
“All Of Them Naturals” is a fully realized, inclusive world of faux-corporation sponsored surrealist new wave punk music rife with satire and discordance. Robotically tight. Delightfully warped. Ideas as vast as Nebraska’s GMO cornfields and as lethal as the pesticides they spray on them. Did the Sunbelt Chemicals Corporation invent DDT? Maybe. Did they invent man? They think so. Did they invent the wheel? No, that was Uranium Club. Truly, our generation’s DEVO. An important group. -Jensen Ward
QUESTION "S/T" LP (Fashionable Idiots Records)
Years in the making, this record displays a style of hardcore that has moved from the raw and primal angst of earlier records to a new level of structure and musicianship without losing any of its power or urgency. Furious catchy riffs, sick leads, ill breaks, critical beats, back up Saira’s introspective, and sometimes inspirational, lyrics yet coarse delivery. A lot of bands today hide their lack of chops behind a wall or reverb and distortion, Question employs driving hardcore with solid riffs eschewing this sleight of hand. Some of the structure reminds me of Totalitar, but unlike a lot of bands these days you can’t say this record “sounds just like…” some other popular or legendary band. For those who wish to rage in hell.
NOSFERATU "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Unhinged hardcore a la YDI, Koro, Void. Psycho drumming, adequate venom in the vocals, and commendable lyrics about this so called great nation. You won't need your beanie babies anymore.
BB EYE "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Texas Chainsaw Mascara + Buzzsaw Breakfast b/w Big Cicada Miss Lady and Miss Penis in a dandy band. Outrageous Calypso New Wave. Expect an LP this summer. Risographed sleeves by Odditie
SOFT CHEEK "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Killer 45 from '79, finally reissued with screen printed jackets
GLORY "The 12 Inch" LP (Triple B Records)
Positive energy expressed through harsh reality: this is where GLORY takes a stand. Blazing through nine minutes of uncompromised power and uniting anthems, each track exemplifies the perfectly refined tradition of hardcore music. While reinforcing foundations built by legendary bands such as STRAIGHT AHEAD, UNIT PRIDE, and CRIPPLED YOUTH, this record is not simply another knock-off. This is for the hardcore, this is for the youth crew, this is for the punk— this is for you. Artwork by Matt Bellosi.
DEPTHS OF REALITY "S/T" 7" (Triple B Records)
A worldview that only 2016 could justify. A sound that only Massachusetts could produce. A document of expressionism that only Xpressions could propagate. Listen carefully — it’s all here: viciousness, justice, paranoia, wrath, grace, revenge, confusion, vanity, epiphany. And also everything else. To listen is to recognize what is hidden but demonstrably present in the world. To honour the chaos of the uncanny present. Of what we wish we were only imagining. To plumb the depths of reality.
BLEEDING GUMS "II" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
"Bleeding Gums are insane, there's no better way to describe these guys. That hardcore intensity heavily permeates into this nine-track 7, the majority of these tracks take a seething pace that can only be described as, well, "insane". The hearty lead singer's amazing performance is only delineated by some incredibly precise guitar and bass work, along with some of the best drumming that's ever graced my ears. There's no needless distortions or feedback involved to supplement any of this tangible ferocity either, it is just straight-forward rock n' roll to melt your face with. Bleeding Gums makes me wanna freak out more than most of the hardcore groups I've come across in the recent past, and for a rock-centric band, that only conveys how much these guys rip"– Jimmy
WARM BODIES "DOMO" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Warm Bodies play a deranged flavor of punk rock n’ roll, with a heavy-handed emphasis on rock… It’s consistently disoriented, rarely adhering to a song structure or style that’s easy to follow, and instead centering itself on the decisively reverbed female vocals, and dynamic bass and guitar work that provide a captivating listening experience no matter which instrument you chose to focus on. The distinct chromaticism, strangling, and noodling from the guitarist’s chords contrasts the incredibly controlled basslines, and creates this sort of necessary balance: for music that generally sounds as if it’s falling apart, there’s such an undeniable aura of deliberateness that displays how talented the group is to achieve that sort of a calculated texture. Despite their unpredictable nature, there’s still plenty of punk qualities present that makes their music easy to appreciate. Combine that with the anxious temper and tightly-wound drum work, and you’ve got six compositions that are bound to electrify your senses through and through
CEREAL KILLER "Demo" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Split release with Anti Fade Records in Australia! Features members of Ausmuteants, Wet Blankets, and Orb. Previously released as a demo on cassette only but has since been mastered for vinyl AND includes a previously unreleased bonus track recorded during the same session, “I Don’t Want Any Sandwiches”. Screaming garage-punk that is over before you knew what hit you. Zane’s frantic vocals punch through your ear holes and grab you by the guts.
LOST SYSTEM "No Meaning No Culture" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Formerly known as Black Monuments in the Grand Rapids underground music scene, they made a name for themselves after playing with bands like Sheer Mag, Lumpy and The Dumpers, and CCTV. After Black Monuments broke up, they formed Lost System with three of the four members. The result is something different. A unique sound with a distinct message to be heard. This project invokes a dynamic and dark energy inspired by the many frustrations of the world we experience today. Lost System's recent single Future Shock is an intense piece showing the constant pressure of a collapsing economy. A reminder of what we are living in and the fear of what’s to come. Repetitive to drive home the point of a bleak future. Lost System was formed in the latter half of 2015 and have been creating new material at a very quick pace since. They have found a more mature sound with a focus on songwriting rather than playing shows. Each member brings a unique presence to the band and a wide variety of influences including Factory Records style Post-punk, 80’s Goth, New Wave, and Hardcore Punk.
RIK & THE PIGS "Don't Tell On Me" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Total Punk favs Rik & the Pigs are back with a brand new single and here to prove their grime comes in more than one flavor."Don't Tell On Me" is greasier than crisco and harder to get out of your fur. Sleazy glam snot of the highest order. Flip this baby over and you get a cover of Candy Slice’s “Gimmie Mick” sour enough to make you pucker them lips. Sleazy, greasy and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
RIK & THE PIGS "Pig Sweat" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Right on the heels of the BLACK PANTIES & PATSY 7"s on TOTAL PUNK comes this beast of a record. Rik & The Pigs had a demo tape out earlier this year on Lumpy Records that I absolutely flipped over and I am happy to announce their vinyl debut is with us. The quintessential TOTAL PUNK release and if I was left releasing nothing but Rik & The Pigs records from here on out I'd be one happy dog. Sleazy hook filled punk with shredding guitars, seething snot covered vocals and gnarly as hell. Double A sider for sure. Not for the faint of heart. Sweaty, blown out, raw, and100% TOTAL PUNK! Another 7" and a 12" coming next year on TOTAL PUNK!
LYSOL "Wired" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Lysol are the exact kind of muck that the cleaning product was invented to wipe out. They probably weren’t even aware that they shared the name because they’ve most likely never touched the stuff. Hailing from Seattle and featuring 3/4 of Freak Vibe we’ve been after Lysol since their inception and they delivered in fold. Two anxiety ridden punk blasts with vocals just vicious enough to cut through all feedback and scuzz. Raging, banging, and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
UNIFORM CHOICE "Screaming For Change" LP (Southern Lord Records)
One of the greatest American hardcore releases of the 1980s gets the deluxe Southern Lord reissue treatment, with the January re-release of the landmark Screaming For Change classic album by UNIFORM CHOICE. Screaming For Change was the debut album from Orange County, California's godfathers of positive hardcore, UNIFORM CHOICE. Furious hardcore energy and a signature vocal delivery combine with empowering lyrical output to formulate one of the most renowned and longstanding albums of the '80s hardcore scene. Originally released in 1986 on the band's own Wishingwell Records label, vocalist Pat Dubar recently contacted Southern Lord with the desire to have an official re-issue of the classic album "done right" for their fans. After several unauthorized, completely sub-par bootlegs appeared Pat wanted a definitive version released to set the record straight! The fourteen straightedge anthems on this essential piece of hardcore history has been remastered from the original tapes by Brad Boatright (Excel, Nails, High On Fire, YDI, Brotherhood), and the elaborate packaging includes a 8-page 12"x12" booklet bound into a Stoughton tip-on gatefold jacket. There are a ton of amazing, never-before published photos from the personal archives of the members of UNIFORM CHOICE and their friends, and liner notes by longtime Orange County hardcore dude Casey Jones. This is a very special release that is not to be missed!
BEYOND "No Longer At Ease" LP (Revelation Records)
Beyond, though short lived in the NYHC scene (1988-1989), made an impact with their personal brand of Long Island metal-tinged hardcore with intricate riffage and members going on to other influential hardcore bands on both coasts. Originally released in 1989 by Combined Effort Records and later reissued in 1997 on CD by Some Records, this is the first time "No Longer At Ease" has been available again on any format since then. This Revelation Records reissue is remastered from the original analog tapes, features original artwork and is pressed on limited color vinyl. LP includes digital download of this record.
IVY GREEN "S/T" LP (Pseudonym Records)
Like the Ramones in America and the Sex Pistols in England, Ivy Green were The Netherlands' first and foremost punk band, and arguably the best. Hailing from the small village of Hazerswoude, far away from the big city buzz, the four guys that started the band in 1975 could develop their musical style and skills in almost total seclusion. And yet their simple but charismatic rock & roll was raw and fast enough to propel them right into the vanguard of the fledgling punk rock movement. Their eponymous debut album stands as a bona fide punk classic. Released in 1978 on WEA's short-lived Pogo label, it has long since been unavailable and became an extremely hard to find collector's item. Now this stellar longplayer has been dynamically remastered from the original master tapes, including 2 bonus tracks pressed onto thick 180 gram vinyl and packaged in a beautiful gatefold sleeve featuring the original artwork and extensive liner notes by music journalist Swie Tio.
V/A "I Don't Care Vol. 2" Compilation 2xLP (Pseudonym Records)
'DUTCH PUNK 1977-1983' - The image the term "Dutch punk" conjures up for many is that of the pitched battles during the squat clearances and the coronation of Queen Beatrix, in 1980. This is a shame as the equally tough, committed music that the Dutch punks made tends to get overlooked. Prey to many socio and economic forces, and often having to rely on its own ingenuity, Dutch punk was one of the most resilient and flexible of musical movements, spawning bands as brilliant as Ivy Green, Rondos, and as durable as Mecano Ltd. and The Ex. Luckily Pseudonym Records have released 'I Don't Care', a comprehensive collection brimful of brilliant, spiky and often innovative music. Exclusively restored, courtesy of dynamic 24 bit remastering from the original master tapes, and benefitting from an audiophile pressing on high quality 180 gram vinyl, this double LP compilation is a real "must-have" for collectors. The 37 tracks both highlight key players, and give a comprehensive overview of Dutch punk's finest and most interesting moments. This double LP also boasts 4 previously unreleased tracks and versions, an entertaining overview of the musical history of Dutch punk, and a wealth of obscure photos and related memorabilia. Compiled more or less in release order, and spanning the years 1977 to 1983, it also serves as a brilliant starting point for the curious, or those punk historians who may have overlooked the music that these turbulent years in the Netherlands unleashed. This compilation is housed in a deluxe 380 gram carton gatefold sleeve, and the cover is drawn by legendary "punk" illustrator Joost Swarte, who designed a number of classic punk covers. Limited to 250 copies on black vinyl.
SUBURBAN HOMES "… are Bored" LP (Total Punk Records)
Up until a few years ago Paul Messis was mainly known for his large catalog of late 60’s garage/psych inspired releases. However back in 2014, spawned mainly out of boredom and frustration he released a three song 7” under the moniker of Suburban Homes. It was a lo-fi tinny outburst of late 70’s sounding Rough Trade punk that grabbed the attention of many record hoarding aficionados, myself included. He followed that up with the excellent Conformity In The U.K. single and now Crawley’s premier UKDIY punk outfit, Suburban Homes, are back with their highly anticipated 12” on Total Punk. As contemptuous, angst ridden, and brash as ever ’…Are Bored ‘is a six track assault on complacency, hypocrisy, and modern life in general. Equal parts Swell Maps, Desperate Bicycles, Billy Childish and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
GOUGE AWAY ",Dies" LP (Eighty-Sixed Records)
The debut full length from Florida's GOUGE AWAY! 13 powerful tracks of political hardcore punk.
REPTOIDES "S/T" 7" (World Gone Mad Records)
The first appearance of REPTOIDES on vinyl after two killer and exceedingly limited demos released by Grabaciones PURO PEDO continuing their blown out, shrill, trashy hardcore punk. Hailing from the desert city of Santa Catarina, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, REPTOIDES fit in but sit distinctly with other heavy hitters from that region, such as RATAS DEL VATICANO or TERCER MUNDO. 4 tracks that hit like a distorted laser gun. Completely mutant, pummeling and incinerating guitar and bass with pounding drums. Songs that will, with any luck, get them abducted from intergalactic space reptilians to escape this shit planet of ours.
RETRETES "Aguantando Como Pueda" 7" (World Gone Mad Records)
After two excellent demos released in limited quantities by grabaciones PURO PEDO out of Monterrey, Mexico, RETRETES delivered a third demo limited to a mere 35 copies that WGM is now presenting to the world in vinyl format. Dirty and trashy garage punk rock basura with just the right amount of catchy, snotty melodies with tons of grit to back it up. RETRETES play self-styled punk rock that is a great musical addition to a city with a long standing history of great bands. A perfect reflection of living a life that is as equally hostile to you as you are to it, trying to kill the boredom with rock’n’roll, only hating your loved ones a little less than everyone else.
N.E.G. "II" Tape (Slugsalt Records)
A relatively new Philly band, N.E.G. began making noise mid-2016 with a demo tape out on Cruel Noise Records out of Pittsburgh. This is their follow-up cassette, with 11.5 more minutes of raw, hardcore punk that should appeal to d-beat and crust fans alike.
PHILIPPINE VIOLATORS "At Large" Tape (World Gone Mad Records)
W.G.M. is proud to announce the official reissue of the classic 1987 Filipino hardcore punk cassette album “At Large!” by the PHILIPPINE VIOLATORS. It was released by the legendary TWISTED RED CROSS label on tape only in the Philippines. W.G.M. is staying true to that original format and professionally repressing it with a full color cover like the original and keeping the original layout, but with the added panels of old archival photos, a lyric and an interview they did after the release of their 3rd tape album. This reissue is one of the most crucial releases from an often forgotten and overlooked scene in the context of world punk. Limited to 300 copies.
BLANK SPELL "4 Track" Tape (World Gone Mad Records)
Brand new Blank Spell cassette featuring 4-track demos of songs to appear on their upcoming LP. Just as killer as their other stuff!
NOT FOR EVERYONE Issue #3 Zine
Interview with Portland/Olympia band MPK, a local scene report of PDX, and a few pages of reviews.
NOT FOR EVERYONE Issue #4 Zine
Interviews with Boise HC band INGROWN, new Portland band U-NIX, a SEATS OF PISS interview reprint, tour diary for my bands SWEATS and HEAVY HANDS, and more reviews and skate pictures.
MAXIMUMROCKNROLL #405 - February 2017
MRR #405 is here! It’s that time again, our Year-End Top Ten Issue, with 2016 best-of lists by everyone from your favorite band, column, or label. We’ve also got hand-picked show photos from Angela Owens and Farrah Skeiky, and art throughout by Sarah Sequoia. Plus, we talk with Boston goth femme punks DAME, Glasgow’s ANXIETY teach us about “wimpy hardcore,” FUCKING from Minneapolis live up to their name, then we delve into Filipino Oi! with the EXSENADORS and Finnish post-punk with APATHETICS. All this plus letters, columns, and the record, book, film, and zine reviews you love. Start the new year off right with Maximum Rocknroll!
All the way from the city of champions, CONCEALED BLADE follow up their massive 2015 demo with thirteen more tracks of the pummeling hardcore punk that those aligned with the Braddock Hit Factory have been churning out for many moons now; keeping the emphasis on quality over commonplace, riffs over a complete lack of riffs, and really just hardcore over horse shit. This 12" platter is evidence that THE BLADE still ain't for the weak and is just as precise and cutting in the execution of their songs as they've ever been. As a sage like man of wisdom probably once bellowed over a lukewarm bottle of Straubs and a half eaten pizza boat at the Rock Room, "YINZ WANTED DA BEST WELL YINZ GOT DA BEST!"
S-21 "Year Zero" 7" (Slugsalt Records)
S-21 is ripping, stomping and heavy hardcore punk from Philadelphia, PA. A true power house and one of the city's best hc/punk acts. I personally love the dirty, gritty and stompy hc/punk style but what really captured me was the almost WB2D/Severed Head of State guitar solo that rips through the opening track. The vocals compliment the music well, rough and gravely. 4 song EP and not to be slept on!
URANIUM CLUB "All of Them Naturals" LP (Fashionable Idiots Records)
“All Of Them Naturals” is a fully realized, inclusive world of faux-corporation sponsored surrealist new wave punk music rife with satire and discordance. Robotically tight. Delightfully warped. Ideas as vast as Nebraska’s GMO cornfields and as lethal as the pesticides they spray on them. Did the Sunbelt Chemicals Corporation invent DDT? Maybe. Did they invent man? They think so. Did they invent the wheel? No, that was Uranium Club. Truly, our generation’s DEVO. An important group. -Jensen Ward
QUESTION "S/T" LP (Fashionable Idiots Records)
Years in the making, this record displays a style of hardcore that has moved from the raw and primal angst of earlier records to a new level of structure and musicianship without losing any of its power or urgency. Furious catchy riffs, sick leads, ill breaks, critical beats, back up Saira’s introspective, and sometimes inspirational, lyrics yet coarse delivery. A lot of bands today hide their lack of chops behind a wall or reverb and distortion, Question employs driving hardcore with solid riffs eschewing this sleight of hand. Some of the structure reminds me of Totalitar, but unlike a lot of bands these days you can’t say this record “sounds just like…” some other popular or legendary band. For those who wish to rage in hell.
NOSFERATU "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Unhinged hardcore a la YDI, Koro, Void. Psycho drumming, adequate venom in the vocals, and commendable lyrics about this so called great nation. You won't need your beanie babies anymore.
BB EYE "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Texas Chainsaw Mascara + Buzzsaw Breakfast b/w Big Cicada Miss Lady and Miss Penis in a dandy band. Outrageous Calypso New Wave. Expect an LP this summer. Risographed sleeves by Odditie
SOFT CHEEK "S/T" 7" (Lumpy Records)
Killer 45 from '79, finally reissued with screen printed jackets
GLORY "The 12 Inch" LP (Triple B Records)
Positive energy expressed through harsh reality: this is where GLORY takes a stand. Blazing through nine minutes of uncompromised power and uniting anthems, each track exemplifies the perfectly refined tradition of hardcore music. While reinforcing foundations built by legendary bands such as STRAIGHT AHEAD, UNIT PRIDE, and CRIPPLED YOUTH, this record is not simply another knock-off. This is for the hardcore, this is for the youth crew, this is for the punk— this is for you. Artwork by Matt Bellosi.
DEPTHS OF REALITY "S/T" 7" (Triple B Records)
A worldview that only 2016 could justify. A sound that only Massachusetts could produce. A document of expressionism that only Xpressions could propagate. Listen carefully — it’s all here: viciousness, justice, paranoia, wrath, grace, revenge, confusion, vanity, epiphany. And also everything else. To listen is to recognize what is hidden but demonstrably present in the world. To honour the chaos of the uncanny present. Of what we wish we were only imagining. To plumb the depths of reality.
BLEEDING GUMS "II" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
"Bleeding Gums are insane, there's no better way to describe these guys. That hardcore intensity heavily permeates into this nine-track 7, the majority of these tracks take a seething pace that can only be described as, well, "insane". The hearty lead singer's amazing performance is only delineated by some incredibly precise guitar and bass work, along with some of the best drumming that's ever graced my ears. There's no needless distortions or feedback involved to supplement any of this tangible ferocity either, it is just straight-forward rock n' roll to melt your face with. Bleeding Gums makes me wanna freak out more than most of the hardcore groups I've come across in the recent past, and for a rock-centric band, that only conveys how much these guys rip"– Jimmy
WARM BODIES "DOMO" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Warm Bodies play a deranged flavor of punk rock n’ roll, with a heavy-handed emphasis on rock… It’s consistently disoriented, rarely adhering to a song structure or style that’s easy to follow, and instead centering itself on the decisively reverbed female vocals, and dynamic bass and guitar work that provide a captivating listening experience no matter which instrument you chose to focus on. The distinct chromaticism, strangling, and noodling from the guitarist’s chords contrasts the incredibly controlled basslines, and creates this sort of necessary balance: for music that generally sounds as if it’s falling apart, there’s such an undeniable aura of deliberateness that displays how talented the group is to achieve that sort of a calculated texture. Despite their unpredictable nature, there’s still plenty of punk qualities present that makes their music easy to appreciate. Combine that with the anxious temper and tightly-wound drum work, and you’ve got six compositions that are bound to electrify your senses through and through
CEREAL KILLER "Demo" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Split release with Anti Fade Records in Australia! Features members of Ausmuteants, Wet Blankets, and Orb. Previously released as a demo on cassette only but has since been mastered for vinyl AND includes a previously unreleased bonus track recorded during the same session, “I Don’t Want Any Sandwiches”. Screaming garage-punk that is over before you knew what hit you. Zane’s frantic vocals punch through your ear holes and grab you by the guts.
LOST SYSTEM "No Meaning No Culture" 7" (Neck Chop Records)
Formerly known as Black Monuments in the Grand Rapids underground music scene, they made a name for themselves after playing with bands like Sheer Mag, Lumpy and The Dumpers, and CCTV. After Black Monuments broke up, they formed Lost System with three of the four members. The result is something different. A unique sound with a distinct message to be heard. This project invokes a dynamic and dark energy inspired by the many frustrations of the world we experience today. Lost System's recent single Future Shock is an intense piece showing the constant pressure of a collapsing economy. A reminder of what we are living in and the fear of what’s to come. Repetitive to drive home the point of a bleak future. Lost System was formed in the latter half of 2015 and have been creating new material at a very quick pace since. They have found a more mature sound with a focus on songwriting rather than playing shows. Each member brings a unique presence to the band and a wide variety of influences including Factory Records style Post-punk, 80’s Goth, New Wave, and Hardcore Punk.
RIK & THE PIGS "Don't Tell On Me" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Total Punk favs Rik & the Pigs are back with a brand new single and here to prove their grime comes in more than one flavor."Don't Tell On Me" is greasier than crisco and harder to get out of your fur. Sleazy glam snot of the highest order. Flip this baby over and you get a cover of Candy Slice’s “Gimmie Mick” sour enough to make you pucker them lips. Sleazy, greasy and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
RIK & THE PIGS "Pig Sweat" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Right on the heels of the BLACK PANTIES & PATSY 7"s on TOTAL PUNK comes this beast of a record. Rik & The Pigs had a demo tape out earlier this year on Lumpy Records that I absolutely flipped over and I am happy to announce their vinyl debut is with us. The quintessential TOTAL PUNK release and if I was left releasing nothing but Rik & The Pigs records from here on out I'd be one happy dog. Sleazy hook filled punk with shredding guitars, seething snot covered vocals and gnarly as hell. Double A sider for sure. Not for the faint of heart. Sweaty, blown out, raw, and100% TOTAL PUNK! Another 7" and a 12" coming next year on TOTAL PUNK!
LYSOL "Wired" 7" (Total Punk Records)
Lysol are the exact kind of muck that the cleaning product was invented to wipe out. They probably weren’t even aware that they shared the name because they’ve most likely never touched the stuff. Hailing from Seattle and featuring 3/4 of Freak Vibe we’ve been after Lysol since their inception and they delivered in fold. Two anxiety ridden punk blasts with vocals just vicious enough to cut through all feedback and scuzz. Raging, banging, and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
UNIFORM CHOICE "Screaming For Change" LP (Southern Lord Records)
One of the greatest American hardcore releases of the 1980s gets the deluxe Southern Lord reissue treatment, with the January re-release of the landmark Screaming For Change classic album by UNIFORM CHOICE. Screaming For Change was the debut album from Orange County, California's godfathers of positive hardcore, UNIFORM CHOICE. Furious hardcore energy and a signature vocal delivery combine with empowering lyrical output to formulate one of the most renowned and longstanding albums of the '80s hardcore scene. Originally released in 1986 on the band's own Wishingwell Records label, vocalist Pat Dubar recently contacted Southern Lord with the desire to have an official re-issue of the classic album "done right" for their fans. After several unauthorized, completely sub-par bootlegs appeared Pat wanted a definitive version released to set the record straight! The fourteen straightedge anthems on this essential piece of hardcore history has been remastered from the original tapes by Brad Boatright (Excel, Nails, High On Fire, YDI, Brotherhood), and the elaborate packaging includes a 8-page 12"x12" booklet bound into a Stoughton tip-on gatefold jacket. There are a ton of amazing, never-before published photos from the personal archives of the members of UNIFORM CHOICE and their friends, and liner notes by longtime Orange County hardcore dude Casey Jones. This is a very special release that is not to be missed!
BEYOND "No Longer At Ease" LP (Revelation Records)
Beyond, though short lived in the NYHC scene (1988-1989), made an impact with their personal brand of Long Island metal-tinged hardcore with intricate riffage and members going on to other influential hardcore bands on both coasts. Originally released in 1989 by Combined Effort Records and later reissued in 1997 on CD by Some Records, this is the first time "No Longer At Ease" has been available again on any format since then. This Revelation Records reissue is remastered from the original analog tapes, features original artwork and is pressed on limited color vinyl. LP includes digital download of this record.
IVY GREEN "S/T" LP (Pseudonym Records)
Like the Ramones in America and the Sex Pistols in England, Ivy Green were The Netherlands' first and foremost punk band, and arguably the best. Hailing from the small village of Hazerswoude, far away from the big city buzz, the four guys that started the band in 1975 could develop their musical style and skills in almost total seclusion. And yet their simple but charismatic rock & roll was raw and fast enough to propel them right into the vanguard of the fledgling punk rock movement. Their eponymous debut album stands as a bona fide punk classic. Released in 1978 on WEA's short-lived Pogo label, it has long since been unavailable and became an extremely hard to find collector's item. Now this stellar longplayer has been dynamically remastered from the original master tapes, including 2 bonus tracks pressed onto thick 180 gram vinyl and packaged in a beautiful gatefold sleeve featuring the original artwork and extensive liner notes by music journalist Swie Tio.
V/A "I Don't Care Vol. 2" Compilation 2xLP (Pseudonym Records)
'DUTCH PUNK 1977-1983' - The image the term "Dutch punk" conjures up for many is that of the pitched battles during the squat clearances and the coronation of Queen Beatrix, in 1980. This is a shame as the equally tough, committed music that the Dutch punks made tends to get overlooked. Prey to many socio and economic forces, and often having to rely on its own ingenuity, Dutch punk was one of the most resilient and flexible of musical movements, spawning bands as brilliant as Ivy Green, Rondos, and as durable as Mecano Ltd. and The Ex. Luckily Pseudonym Records have released 'I Don't Care', a comprehensive collection brimful of brilliant, spiky and often innovative music. Exclusively restored, courtesy of dynamic 24 bit remastering from the original master tapes, and benefitting from an audiophile pressing on high quality 180 gram vinyl, this double LP compilation is a real "must-have" for collectors. The 37 tracks both highlight key players, and give a comprehensive overview of Dutch punk's finest and most interesting moments. This double LP also boasts 4 previously unreleased tracks and versions, an entertaining overview of the musical history of Dutch punk, and a wealth of obscure photos and related memorabilia. Compiled more or less in release order, and spanning the years 1977 to 1983, it also serves as a brilliant starting point for the curious, or those punk historians who may have overlooked the music that these turbulent years in the Netherlands unleashed. This compilation is housed in a deluxe 380 gram carton gatefold sleeve, and the cover is drawn by legendary "punk" illustrator Joost Swarte, who designed a number of classic punk covers. Limited to 250 copies on black vinyl.
SUBURBAN HOMES "… are Bored" LP (Total Punk Records)
Up until a few years ago Paul Messis was mainly known for his large catalog of late 60’s garage/psych inspired releases. However back in 2014, spawned mainly out of boredom and frustration he released a three song 7” under the moniker of Suburban Homes. It was a lo-fi tinny outburst of late 70’s sounding Rough Trade punk that grabbed the attention of many record hoarding aficionados, myself included. He followed that up with the excellent Conformity In The U.K. single and now Crawley’s premier UKDIY punk outfit, Suburban Homes, are back with their highly anticipated 12” on Total Punk. As contemptuous, angst ridden, and brash as ever ’…Are Bored ‘is a six track assault on complacency, hypocrisy, and modern life in general. Equal parts Swell Maps, Desperate Bicycles, Billy Childish and 100% TOTAL PUNK!
GOUGE AWAY ",Dies" LP (Eighty-Sixed Records)
The debut full length from Florida's GOUGE AWAY! 13 powerful tracks of political hardcore punk.
REPTOIDES "S/T" 7" (World Gone Mad Records)
The first appearance of REPTOIDES on vinyl after two killer and exceedingly limited demos released by Grabaciones PURO PEDO continuing their blown out, shrill, trashy hardcore punk. Hailing from the desert city of Santa Catarina, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, REPTOIDES fit in but sit distinctly with other heavy hitters from that region, such as RATAS DEL VATICANO or TERCER MUNDO. 4 tracks that hit like a distorted laser gun. Completely mutant, pummeling and incinerating guitar and bass with pounding drums. Songs that will, with any luck, get them abducted from intergalactic space reptilians to escape this shit planet of ours.
RETRETES "Aguantando Como Pueda" 7" (World Gone Mad Records)
After two excellent demos released in limited quantities by grabaciones PURO PEDO out of Monterrey, Mexico, RETRETES delivered a third demo limited to a mere 35 copies that WGM is now presenting to the world in vinyl format. Dirty and trashy garage punk rock basura with just the right amount of catchy, snotty melodies with tons of grit to back it up. RETRETES play self-styled punk rock that is a great musical addition to a city with a long standing history of great bands. A perfect reflection of living a life that is as equally hostile to you as you are to it, trying to kill the boredom with rock’n’roll, only hating your loved ones a little less than everyone else.
N.E.G. "II" Tape (Slugsalt Records)
A relatively new Philly band, N.E.G. began making noise mid-2016 with a demo tape out on Cruel Noise Records out of Pittsburgh. This is their follow-up cassette, with 11.5 more minutes of raw, hardcore punk that should appeal to d-beat and crust fans alike.
PHILIPPINE VIOLATORS "At Large" Tape (World Gone Mad Records)
W.G.M. is proud to announce the official reissue of the classic 1987 Filipino hardcore punk cassette album “At Large!” by the PHILIPPINE VIOLATORS. It was released by the legendary TWISTED RED CROSS label on tape only in the Philippines. W.G.M. is staying true to that original format and professionally repressing it with a full color cover like the original and keeping the original layout, but with the added panels of old archival photos, a lyric and an interview they did after the release of their 3rd tape album. This reissue is one of the most crucial releases from an often forgotten and overlooked scene in the context of world punk. Limited to 300 copies.
BLANK SPELL "4 Track" Tape (World Gone Mad Records)
Brand new Blank Spell cassette featuring 4-track demos of songs to appear on their upcoming LP. Just as killer as their other stuff!
NOT FOR EVERYONE Issue #3 Zine
Interview with Portland/Olympia band MPK, a local scene report of PDX, and a few pages of reviews.
NOT FOR EVERYONE Issue #4 Zine
Interviews with Boise HC band INGROWN, new Portland band U-NIX, a SEATS OF PISS interview reprint, tour diary for my bands SWEATS and HEAVY HANDS, and more reviews and skate pictures.
MAXIMUMROCKNROLL #405 - February 2017
MRR #405 is here! It’s that time again, our Year-End Top Ten Issue, with 2016 best-of lists by everyone from your favorite band, column, or label. We’ve also got hand-picked show photos from Angela Owens and Farrah Skeiky, and art throughout by Sarah Sequoia. Plus, we talk with Boston goth femme punks DAME, Glasgow’s ANXIETY teach us about “wimpy hardcore,” FUCKING from Minneapolis live up to their name, then we delve into Filipino Oi! with the EXSENADORS and Finnish post-punk with APATHETICS. All this plus letters, columns, and the record, book, film, and zine reviews you love. Start the new year off right with Maximum Rocknroll!
Restocks - 1/19/17:
ACRYLICS "S/T" 12"
BIG ZIT "Electric Zit Vol. 1" 7"
BLOOD PRESSURE "Need to Control" LP
BUG, THE "What's Buggin' You?" Tape
CARRY ON "It's All Our Blood" LP
DILLINGER FOUR "Civil War" LP
ELECTROCUTIONER "The Blood Of The Pig Must Flow In The Street" 7"
FASTBACKS "Now is the Time" 2xLP
FURY "Paramount" LP
NO TOLERANCE "You Walk Alone" Tape
POWER TRIP "Manifest Decimation" LP
PRIVATE ROOM "Life Com" 7"
TENEMENT "False Teeth" 7" (Stock copies)
TORSO "Sono Pronta a Morire" LP
UV-TV Demo Tape
BIG ZIT "Electric Zit Vol. 1" 7"
BLOOD PRESSURE "Need to Control" LP
BUG, THE "What's Buggin' You?" Tape
CARRY ON "It's All Our Blood" LP
DILLINGER FOUR "Civil War" LP
ELECTROCUTIONER "The Blood Of The Pig Must Flow In The Street" 7"
FASTBACKS "Now is the Time" 2xLP
FURY "Paramount" LP
NO TOLERANCE "You Walk Alone" Tape
POWER TRIP "Manifest Decimation" LP
PRIVATE ROOM "Life Com" 7"
TENEMENT "False Teeth" 7" (Stock copies)
TORSO "Sono Pronta a Morire" LP
UV-TV Demo Tape