HARDBOILED | hardcore webzine

Terror - - The New Blood

I Want You Dead - AΩ 7inch

AΩ, new 7 inch from I Want You Dead, is a follow up to their 'We are the Legions of Scums' LP and showcases huge progress the band has made. The Greeks have put together some seriously heavy and menacing tunes which despite superb production sound as evil and dirty as they should. Even without reading the lyrics, just from the way it sounds I can image the type of sick thoughts being spat in these songs. Disgust, hatred, vengeance, contempt are some of the themes explored here and they sing it like they mean it. As always, the band is offering their music for free download but if you want to cop the vinyl, click here. Download it.

Hoods - Night Rider

My Turn Interview

I’ve done this interview months ago and the fact that it’s been published just today made me realize how I have been slacking on updates lately. But better late than never and it’s good to have bands like My Turn featured here. And I mean bands which actually have something to say. And with all these problems happening in Greece right now, you can be sure hardcore bands from out there will have plenty to sing and talk about. My Turn proves that even in such tough times, hardcore can be a great tool for keeping a positive mental attitude and doing something constructive with your life. It’s not about preaching, it’s about sharing experience!

I’ve done this interview months ago and the fact that it’s been published just today made me realize how I have been slacking on updates lately. But better late than never and it’s good to have bands like My Turn featured here. And I mean bands which actually have something to say. And with all these problems happening in Greece right now, you can be sure hardcore bands from out there will have plenty to sing and talk about. My Turn proves that even in such tough times, hardcore can be a great tool for keeping a positive mental attitude and doing something constructive with your life. It’s not about preaching, it’s about sharing experience!

Could you please introduce the band and tell it got started?
F.: Hi and thanks for the intie! I am Fotis and I play guitar. I also do some nasty backing vocals, jump around and consume huge amounts of vegetarian junk food on and off the road. Me and M. (drums) had been talking about forming a no frills hardcore band, but it all came to life when one day I was out with A. (vox) and he was totally up for doing the vocals when I mentioned it. We started rehearsing straight away in the summer of 2010. Sergios joined in on the bass a couple of months later and the rest is just history like they say. We were all really excited about playing so that's why a lot of stuff has happened fast. That and the fact that we have all previously been in bands and have been active in the HC scene in one way or the other.

A.: Well, I’m Apostolis and I sing in My Turn, a new hardcore / punk band based in the capital of Greece. Everything got started during the summer of 2010, when we had a bunch of rehearsals and managed to form a couple of songs. We recorded our debut demo in early October and our first show took place in Sofia (BG) a couple of weeks after. Since then we haven’t stopped playing around Greece (plus a show in Milano, Italy), creating new songs and spreading out positive vibes and messages. My Turn is our haven inside this stormy society and we are really happy yet proud for this band.

M.: Well we are My Turn. Four guys from Athens, Greece . It all started for the fun of it and when it started it was a bad day for the world.

S.: Yeah sure, we are not an English rock band we are dental floss salesmen from Montana (legendary t-shirts right?). Simply, four guys having fun and it started without me :)

You have recently released your first demo. What has been the response to it and what kids how have never heard it should expect from this stuff?
F.: Yeah, we did a demo entitled "Noble Intentions" which was released in October 2010. The response has been pretty awesome. We did a tape edition (limited to 60 copies) and and CD edition (80 copies I think) which sold out really fast and since then we have been doing re-prints of the CD every now and then for new shows. We also promote the free link for it, so if you're reading, this please go and download it. The kids should expect a mix of youth crew / fast hardcore mixed with some punk rock influences and a few old school moshy parts, but no metal. Just old school, energetic hardcore music with a positive message!

A.: Our first demo includes 6 songs (+ an intro) of passionate hardcore / punk music, recorded live in a friend’s studio. The response is way too better than we could even imagine, since we’ve given away around 200 CDs and 60 tapes in such a short period. You can download our demo if you simply copy this link http://www.mediafire.com/?czu6g1tel2rk71h and paste it in your browser. As I wrote above, what kids should expect is just passionate and emotional hardcore / punk rock music; nothing more and nothing less.

M.: Well in fact I think we’re now starting to get the feedback from it, because until now we were mostly promoting it. But until now people are fairly satisfied (I hope they are not just being polite to us haha). If you like melodic old school punk-influenced hardcore I think you may like “Noble Intentions”.

S.: The response so far has been great! A lot of positive feedback and nice words. One should expect something that he thinks he has heard before but in the end it sounds fresh.

What are some of the bands that influenced your sound?
F.: For me one of the biggest influences remains Youth Of Today as I think these guys set the standards. Their positive outlook delivered through a powerful, aggressive medium is always an inspiration. I still remember the day I bought my YOT cd and decided that a positive life is the life for me. Anyways, other bands I consider influences come from the 90s youth crew revival era, like In My Eyes, Ten Yard Fight, Better Than A Thousand. To be honest, the whole US style HC spectrum is an influence as we all have our different favorites. We mix that with some melodic hardcore influences of bands like H20, Dag Nasty, CIV, Shelter.... These are all bands I love to play so I guess they naturally become influences.

A.: This is a question I always try not to answer to… Honestly, I am not into stating band names it definitely seems not ok for me, that’s all. So, I’d say that positive melodic hardcore music, the youth crew / straight edge movement and the So-Cal punk rock scene have equally influenced My Turn. There is an old school NYHC approach in some of our songs, as well, but it has nothing to do with the macho / tough guy crap that ruins the scene nowadays. I am personally influenced in a lot of ways by the local (that means Greek) punk / hardcore scene of the 90s.

M.: I’d say…Minor Threat, H2O and Youth of today…Just some of them.

S.: Mmm hardcore bands, punk rock bands, SLAYER etc

Is there any message you want to convey with My Turn?
F.: For sure. I think the message we try to convey stands for anti-violence, free will and clear thinking. These are things we really feel strongly about. Even if our lyrics are not 100% posi and the music gets quite aggressive at times, we try and promote the abovementioned ideas through our general existence as a band, things we say when on stage, lives before and after the show, etc. Sometimes I think hardcore has become too much of a playground for cool kids who don't care about shit. This is not something I agree with. Hardcore is supposed to be a revolutionary medium. I am not saying everyone in the scene should be all about politics and PC stances, having fun is at the forefront, but there should be at least a certain degree of awareness. Otherwise, look at the rate of how hardcore kids come and go in and out the scene: it's pretty fast.

A.: First of all, almost all our lyrics deal with personal issues. Writing lyrics and shouting them at the kids every now & then is a life-breathing experience for me. Exposing all my energy and my emotions seems vital. Of course, we do care for the social and political topics, and some hardcore / punk scene related stuff, as well. I strongly believe that punk rock has become very safe and lame nowadays; it’s alienated from its original meaning. I grew up listening to this music not only because I liked the song structures but mainly because all those bands had something to say. Hardcore / punk is much more than music; I’ll keep saying this no matter how cliché it sounds. The times are very crucial so hardcore cannot be neutral; we have to choose a side and we also have to give our best to represent this side. Hardcore / punk was, is and will always be against the system, but this is not enough. Hardcore / punk should be a threat for the system, as it was in the past. We should educate ourselves, remain focused and try to avoid the traps of everyday life. No more PC for this interview, haha!

M.: Maybe positive thinking and the good clean fun approach.

S.: That if we can do it, you can do it as well. Listen to music and then go play some, it is much funnier and the feeling on stage is amazing! It's like watching football when you are a kid, you HAVE to go out and kick that ball if you know what I mean.

What could you tell us about hardcore community in Greece. What are some of the bands, labels and fanzines everyone should check out?
F.: The hardcore community in Greece is quite weird ‘cause it's so divided. It's definitely better than it used to be, ‘cause there are more bands, more labels, more shows etc, but there still is a great amount of jealousy between the people. This is something I want no part in! Spoiled kids ruining the scene with their trash talk can go home and stay at home (like they do). Hardcore for me is about fun. But like I said it has progressed through the years and there are many bands worth checking out. I usually try not to mention bands as it seems like promoting only one's friends, but for people who know nothing about the Greek HC scene here are just a few: Rivals (sXe flavored hardcore), Against All Odds (old school NY style), Those Days (youth crew), This Time The Keys Are Broken (modern melodic hardcore), Eternal Hated (awesone metalcore craziness), I Want You Dead (heavy HC), and Bandage is an awesome pop-punk rock band. For zines you should check out our own stuff: Keep It Real run by A., Take Your Shot run by me and The Underdog run by M. Labels there are way too many to mention so I will just say World's Appreciated Kitsch (run by A. again).

A.: The local scene lacks of scene mentality, so I cannot say that it’s the one I am dreaming of.
There are definitely some cool bands and individuals that are sincere and dedicated enough to help the scene grow up and move 1-2 steps forward, but sadly these people can be counted on the fingers of one hand, or maybe (trying to be positive) the two hands… I think that Fotis already stated some of the bands we share common ideals and we co-operate with. I should add Despite Everything, Antimob and Ruined Families, plus Mountza fanzine Scullcrasher distro and Night Owl X label (run by F.). This is a huge step for me, since I hardly state any names or promote specific bands / individuals, hehe! We mustn’t forget that a scene does not only consist of bands, labels or fanzines. There are tens of people running distros, squats / youth centres, spreading out flyers and posters, taking care of blogs & photo – blogs. There are people that set up shows, organize events, work for free as stage-hands or bartenders or sound-engineers during local shows or clean up the mess after each show. All of them create and sustain this scene, if a part is missing, then the whole is deficient.

M.: New bands are approaching, which is good. There are people who love it but always people who come and go. I guess it could be worse. As for bands I love Bandage and Against All Odds. Other bands which are really cool are Censored Sound and Rivals. Check them all out! Apostolis I think is more suitable for talking about labels. As for fanzines I really like Keep It Real and Take Your Shot which the guys from My Turn are publishing. That’s all I know. They know more!

S.: First of all everyone should check out Stress, a legendary 80s punk band. For me in the top-2 greek bands along Panx Romana. Then you have a lot of bands which introduce several hardcore/metal/punk mixtures and there you go Against All Odds, Bandage, Rivals, I Want You Dead, Censored Sound, Despite Everything and many more.

How has running a band has changed since Greece plunged into crisis? Has it affected the hardcore scene over there in any way?
F.: It might be weird to say it, but I don't think money is such a problem. Everything is more expensive but let's face it, if you want to play in a band you will eventually find a way doing it. That is just the way it goes. People go on about the economic crisis while they still spend shitloads of money on worthless stuff. I am not saying it's easy for us either cause it's not; but I don't think the hardcore scene and the bands in it should be really and deeply affected if they are for real. We have been to places where kids run their own shows, make food for everyone, travel by scraping pennies and they do it all out of nothing, all in the name of brother / sisterhood and their love for hardcore. It's a totally different world. There are people who have rejected the normal way of life and live the real punk ethos out there, which is not based on money and possessions but on experiences and feelings. Now if you're one of those kids who needs to buy what is considered cool and thinks you need a lot of money to be active in hardcore, it's your own problem. We all have a choice.

A.: The hardcore / punk scene is not something inhuman of faceless. It consists of the kids that take care of it. The kids have been strongly affected by the crisis; so consequently, the scene itself has been affected in a way, as well. Many of us are unemployed and the gas price is ridiculously expensive, so travelling to the end of the world is not as easy as it used to be! Of course, we find solutions and try to make everything work… They will never bring us down. This is the time we need to re-evaluate solidarity and unity. Together we can do everything. We should trust ourselves, show respect to the others and work collectively. There’s a huge Do It Yourself scene growing bigger and better day after day, and we have to support this at all costs.

M.: Well for us, the band was never business. Nor did we demand expensive show entrance prices from the audience. Cause after all we try to do it as DIY as possible. So financially it hasn’t really affected the band as a band. Each one of us individually is another matter. Sergios is more capable of speaking financially. I just can’t stand injustice and people struggling for errors made by a few – well known people.

And what is your opinion about this situation from the regular folks perspective? How do you think this situation will go in the future?
F.: Someone like S. who has studied into the matter could tell more about how the economic future looks like. I try to take it one day at a time and don't know shit about the future in relation to economics (though I have the feeling that we will be alright somehow). I try to spend less and work hard, I guess. Unfortunately, the 'regular folk' is scared shitless with all that is happening with the economy. It is sad to see everyone so scared and what is worse is that this climate creates a miserable conscience based on fear. Everybody just whines about the economy but then turns on the TV to watch some shitty reality show or the football. It's not like they really care, they only do so superficially. How are the people gonna go forward when there is no hope, no education around and the only thing to count on is the 9 to 5 grind? This is something that we are all responsible for, to look around and not just be scared for ourselves and our well being, closed in our own little caskets, but try to promote a bit of positivity. This country has a long history of poverty and general upheaval, but somehow we are still here and we are alive. While we are worried so much about the economy, life slips away and every day that passes doesn't come back, the clock is fucking ticking...

A.: You force me to go PC once again… As far as the capitalistic system exists, crisis like the recent one will come and go. It’s inevitable… Any kind of authority must be thrown away and then we’ll break free. The problem is that this situation is so imposed in the ‘regular’ folk’s mind, that everybody prefers to take care of its own business and doesn’t care about what’s going on in the rest of the world… We should come out of our microcosms and do some action. I dunno, I’m really pissed off with all this shit and kinda pessimistic this period, that I sometimes believe that nothing will ever change. But this is a huge mistake. We have the power, we are today and we are the world.

S.: Well we are born into the crisis, so you can say that we pretty much can get by compared to other people of our age or older who got fired or cannot really find a proper job that will enable them to live and not just to survive. I think that the situation will not really change a lot. Some people (economists etc.) call this the New Norm. Meaning that this is not just a crisis that will turn up to future economic development, prosperity, a return to hyper-borrowing and meaningless spending of previous years. It will continue to be like this as long as the same economic factors matter most.

What are band’s plans for the future? What should we still expect from My Turn?
F.: The band's plans are shows, shows and more shows. We are travelling everywhere in Greece playing and having the time of our lives. Maybe we can make a small tour in Europe happen in fall 2011. Also, we are writing new material, we might release a split 7". But the uttermost goal is to have enough material to record a full length. In our case 'full length' should be something like 9-10 songs in less than 20 minutes. I don't know when that will happen, but we are making sure to make every release better than the last one. We do not want to just hurry for no reason and put a shitty release out.

A.: Shows! We wanna play in every city in Greece and do a mini European tour (maybe next autumn). We live for the 25 minutes we trash a stage or a floor. Moreover, a new release will come out sooner or later, so you better stay tuned.

M.: We are writing new stuff and I reckon it goes pretty well. We want to record them sometime but I’m not sure in what format (spoiler!). Sure thing is we gonna tour as hell in 2011!

Any last words, death threats or gossip talk?
F.: Thanks a lot for this interview, Hardboiled zine is a fucking awesome zine and I am proud to have the chance to speak my mind through it. I just want to give a shout out to my man Zoob, a long time friend who has gone through some crazy times but is looking OK now. Also Setback NYHC, Pete what's up bro. To the worldwide hardcore scene everybody unite, this is no time for crappy attitudes. Promote the PMA message in and out of HC. To the non-human animals, we care for you. My bros in the band, they rule. Say no to violence of any form. Stay sober.

A.: Thanks for your kindness to introduce My Turn to the Hardboiled zine readers. It means a lot for us and we really appreciate it. Go veg(etari)an.

M.: Thanks a ton for your time and interest. I really like your zine very much. Great work you are doing. Keep it up please and keep supporting the underground. Till next time..!

S.: Thanx a lot for this opportunity! Up the Hammers!

Sentenced To Fight Interview

I did an interview with Sentenced To Fight when they back in 2009 just short time after they released their first demo. Fast forward to 2012, they’ve already released two albums and plans for 2012 include a split with Hold It Down from Indonesia and next Insurreccion, new full length expected to drop this Fall. Not bad for a band with no label support, huh? You definitely gotta give them props for sticking to do-it-yourself mentality. On the other hand, it puts to shame all the lame ass bands crying about not getting proper support from the labels. Anyway, here’s the recent interview I’ve done with the band. It’s about their current activities, the past and the future, but also gives pretty cool insight into Puerto Rican hardcore scene.

I did an interview with Sentenced To Fight when they back in 2009 just short time after they released their first demo. Fast forward to 2012, they’ve already released two albums and plans for 2012 include a split with Hold It Down from Indonesia and next Insurreccion, new full length expected to drop this Fall. Not bad for a band with no label support, huh? You definitely gotta give them props for sticking to do-it-yourself mentality. On the other hand, it puts to shame all the lame ass bands crying about not getting proper support from the labels. Anyway, here’s the recent interview I’ve done with the band. It’s about their current activities, the past and the future, but also gives pretty cool insight into Puerto Rican hardcore scene.

It’s been a while since the last interview we did. What’s been happening with the band during that time? Tell us something about the latest album, Declaracion – why kids should check it out?

Well I think our last interview was back on 2009 , and we where about to release Jauria Guerrera our first album. During that time we continue playing at shows and representing until late 2010 . We took a new member on our family Jose Moran . we called him "Goldo" hahaha wich is of the best musicians we had in the band so far. While we where working on something new , we didn’t know that our first album was traveling the world via internet . Then When we decided to release a preview the new album , one of us wrote Sentenced To fight on google and the support was amazing . People from places like Indonesia, all Latin America , US , Japan and Europe knew about us we had messages in Greek , French , Japanese , French we even got to use google translate to write those brother back. We never thought that LA JAURIA will grow that big.

In July 30 2011 we released our second album "DECLARACION" WICH IS AN EP. It has 6 songs . Kids should check it out because this album defines what STF's all about . Declaracion is full of positive hardcore made for achieving supremacy of self esteem and to make people remember what HC is about. The songs we all in the band had a particular favorite song , but we all have in common two songs : LOS MUERTOS VIVEN which is about the old school people from the scene all around the world are coming back to make scene kids remember what this was all about from the beginning. The other song “Union y Fuerza” , this one is very special because talks about our believe in LA JAURIA our family , strength and union , respect , honor , loyalty values that had been forgotten. Overall The album is sick.

How has your sound developed since the first demo?

Sentenced To Fight has evolved into a more complex sound , more fast roaring riffs mixed with a little touch of beatdown . It has been a long work but finally we are hearing how we have been changing our sound through the years to a more complete sound.

Declaracion is a strong name for an album. What is the meaning behind it and what message you want to convey with it?

We have seen through all these years how people passed a long our scene and leave and never learned a damn thing about life . Declaracion is a clear as water statement , its a war declaration to ignorance and iniquity. We wrote this to make people understand that our moral values those forgotten thoughts must be brought back by ourselves. This album is about achieving self supremacy and learning how to achieve a better way of life without losing your pride.
Although Declaracion is just out, you told me you already work on new release. Tell us something about the songs? How are they sounding?
Yes actually we have two releases to make on 2012 . First is a split album with indonesian band Hold It Down . This record will be great this band reminds me somehow of nyhc style. Right now we are working on whats gonna be our third album "INSURRECCION". So far the new songs are incredible, we are making better music each time we sit to make new sounds. Its going to be a 10 song album. So Stay tune "INSURRECCION" FALL 2012.

What are some of the struggles you have to face when running a hardcore band in Puerto Rico?

Since our scene is strong but little , its not easy to get money together to produce albums and merch, but we still do this you know. It's hard but if you like this you do it period. And this has never been abut the money but unfortunately it is necessary to make some things happen.

Do you have and defined goals to achieve with this band?

I think every band even if hardcore or not had always goals to achieve. Ours is to continue delivering good sounds with a positive message to “LA JAURIA” worldwide. And of course we want to travel and play at shows in different countries and we are looking forward to do it this year. Make people know PRHC through the words of STF's music. But the most important goal is never forget where we came from and what this has always been about . That’s the main goal.

What artists/bands or albums changed your life? Why and how?

Man , first time I heard Madball it blew my mind it was back in 2000 when at school my best friend's father put the record “Demonstrating my style”. I just loved the sound and avery part of the music speaked for it self. From that day on I knew I was gonna do this for the rest of my life . Other bands like Agnostic Front , Warzone , Cro-Mags , Skarhead , Minor Threat and 25 ta life. Local band “Golpe Justo” make awesome music and shows when we were younger , and keep that “ I live this shit” going on always.

What is the hardcore scene in Puerto Rico like nowadays? What band we should check out?

Hardcore scene right now is crossing some difficult times but later on 2011 people start going to shows again and old bands are coming back Hardcore still Lives , We fought to maintain it alive and now is coming back there a lot of people working on making things happen again and its good for the scene once again. You should check local bands like : Clear Convictions , Quejidos del Seol , Bajo Presion , Rise in Sorrow , With Open Force and Golpe Justo is back in business one of the pillar bands on hc on the island you should check them out!!

What are some of the best and worst hardcore albums of 2011?

Best albums probably be: of course it’s our opinion: Lionheart- Built On Struggle, And Agnostic Front – My Life My Way. Worst album : any album that was not make this year , we support hc worldwide if you doing something to keep this alive its good!!

Cornered - Fuck Off

Wow. No big adjectives or obscure words here. Just "wow". This shit is impressive. Taking a push from NYHC crossover like Leeway, mixing in some present day like Mind Eraser and Rival mob and Terror; but mostly i would liken this to Shipwreck and Living Hell and the most apropos comparison - which coming from me is the biggest compliment - is Palehorse. They sound very similar and i am the most grateful for that. I loved Palehorse. and all that mentioned, this band is from Holland. Anyway, in the landscape of today's hardcore, Cornered stands out. even though i was quick to throw some "For Fans Of..." names, these guys have a distinct sound. Heavy. Cornered however 'influenced' by metal tendencies, definitely stand strong on the hardcore side of the metal core label. I mean can you hear the late 80's crossover compared to 7 Seconds or Uniform Choice? Of course.

but the rhythms pummeling through your speakers are for the moshers. the pit will be satiated. Check the bass intro to the song "Fuck Off". Agnostic Front could have written that. Your ears get cohesive attack from all members and their instruments. Vicious, seething screams from the vocals spit condemnation and warning to this fucked up world. Again, to draw on similarities to Palehorse, there are lyrics of world collapse, illuminati, secret societies in control and the like. Musically, the sharp riffs and quick drums never let you rest. This shit is fast and time changes galore keep you on your toes. and swinging your fists. There is a bounce and the EuroHC sound is in there; which harkens the NYHC love again. this band is so good. "Betrayal" is stand out - so fast! and then the breakdown would be sure to bring down any venue. "Lies" is of the same ilk, crushing riffs sped up forcing all in ear shot swear allegiance and start kicking and punching. i truly can not get enough of this ep - bring on the full length! fo real - this is a refreshing change to some of the formulaic HC out now. and as i said, they ain't re-inventing the wheel, just bringing a sound that is powerful and invigorating. this is on the soundtrack to change and revolution, no doubt. It has the speed, the fury, the hate, and the energy to remain steadfast amid the chaos.

6131 Records, 2011
Review by Hutch from Empty Hands blog

Face Your Enemy - Losing Control

Coldside - Hooligans

BALANCE: New book on European hardcore scene

[From the mailbox] Borne out of the American punk scene of the late 1970s, hardcore music raged through the 1980s, spreading to towns and cities across the globe. The hardcore network spans all of Europe, and Balance visits every major node of it, opening the doors of the bars and dives that host Europe’s hardcore bands. Capturing the chaos of the mosh pit, the monotony of the office, and the sheer energy of the music, Balance pays homage to the bands, promoters, designers, and supporters who have made the decision to live a hardcore life.

Balance: European Hardcore features striking photography of shows and portraits of influential musicians. Alongside these images, the authors provide insights into the informal rules that give order to the international movement—for example, all lyrics are written and performed in English—allowing readers an insider’s perspective on the enduring but underdocumented music scene.

Balance focuses on the current European scene, documenting the lives of musicians who strike a balance between their day jobs and this vital musical force. From tattooists in Portugal to miners in Poland, Balance uncovers the twin lives of those working to support their passion. Hardcore has always been more than just music and although the performers and fans across the continent speak different languages and live in different places, they are tied to each other through a communal music scene that transcends borders.

Tom Barry is the drummer for London hardcore band Kartel and has been a fixture of the city's hardcore music scene since the 1990s. He began covering alternative and underground music as a staff writer with Big Cheese magazine before moving into youth work and continuing to contribute to community-focused publications. His writing has covered a variety of subjects, from interviews with Slayer to the content of local school meals.

Sophia Schorr-Kon is a freelance photographer who took up photography at the London College of Communication. She has covered a large range of UK music festivals such as Glastonbury and Bestival. She has also worked with many bands and musicians, shooting for labels such as Sony. Schorr-Kon also works within the political sphere and regularly contributes to the New Statesman.

Mark Batty Publisher (markbattypublisher.com) is an independent publisher dedicated to making distinctive books on the visual art of communicating, showcasing the visual power and innovation of contemporary culture in all of its varied poses. Today, the visual comes at us from more places than ever, and its dissemination is faster and more advanced every year. Books from Mark Batty Publisher capture this acceleration on the pages of every book. Affordable, well designed, thoughtfully created, and produced to last, MBP books are artful products that readers want to hold onto forever.

Bitter End- The Hand That Feeds

Trapped Under Ice - Pleased To Meet You

Only Attitude Counts - Make Amends

Spider Crew - Still Crazy But Not Insane

Trends come and go but you got to have respect for bands that do their own thing throughout the years with no fucking compromises. And I guess Spider Crew never had it easy, just try to remember how not even long ago it suddenly wasn’t cool to wear your hair short or go to the gym or you were almost a social outcast for not reading poetry to sleep every day and your pants were not tight enough. In times like this, when hardcore scene is in danger and the forces of evil have already raised its ugly head, albums from Vienna bands like Spider Crew, Only Attitude Counts and their countless other projects are like islands of sanity.
This new album from Spider Crew, Still Crazy But Not Insane, is nothing you have not heard on their previous releases, but by no means I gonna hold it against them. I somehow knew what to expect and I got what I wanted. The music is still strongly NYHC influenced, bringing to mind bands like Agnostic Front or Madball. I mean, the title says it all, right? After latest Terror album, this is another brilliant tribute to Raybeez and his music and legacy. That’s all about good old school values in life - brotherhood, self respect, loyalty, perseverance, hardcore and tattoos. That’s what it is about – we all love when hardcore bands go more serious on what’s happening in the world, but I guess sometimes it’s also important what kind of person you want to be and how you want to live your life. It’s hard to point out a single best track. I definitely dig the title track, with a catchy chorus and strong vibe in general. Blue Blood Warrior and Egomaniac are also killer tracks, definitely something you want to smash faces to. Not to mention fast, pissed off songs like Revenge Day or My Life/My Rules, with up tempo beat and sing along craziness. Definitely a solid release from a great band!

Review by Dloogi
Label: WTF Records
Year:2011

New Blood: Lockdown

Lockdown represents Virginia hardcore scene with a heavy-ass sound which makes you think of bands like Bulldoze or Merauder. They already got pretty cool demo out, Born Guilty, which gives a good showcase of what they're capable of. Combined with some dark, but mean lyrics, you know it is worth checking out. We caught up with Matt, band's guitar player, to let us know the story behind Lockdown, future plans and other stuff typically discussed during hardcore interviews. Enjoy!

Lockdown represents Virginia hardcore scene with a heavy-ass sound which makes you think of bands like Bulldoze or Merauder. They already got pretty cool demo out, Born Guilty, which gives a good showcase of what they're capable of. Combined with some dark, but mean lyrics, you know it is worth checking out. We caught up with Matt, band's guitar player, to let us know the story behind Lockdown, future plans and other stuff typically discussed during hardcore interviews. Enjoy!

Who is who in the band and how has Lockdown came into being?
Lockdown is a 4 piece band. We have Dan doing vocals, Myself(Matt) playing guitar and vocals, Charlie on bass, and Dave on drums. We started in 2010, one of my older bands broke up and we got together and just started jamming some songs together and made a demo, and just been going from there.

Tell us something about Born Guilty? Why kids should check it out?
Born Guilty is the latest thing we recorded. If your into some sort of heavier hardcore its definitely something you want to check out. If you like Merauder, Bulldoze, Dying Breed, bands along those lines you will probably enjoy this.

What do you write your lyrics about?
Our singer Dan writes all the lyrics to the songs, but what I can tell you is that they are something that everyone can relate to. He sings about stuff that has happened in his life. They are all just very powerful, raw, and real.

Born Guilty is easily available for free download, but are there any plans to release it on a physical format?
We recently just put Born Guilty up for download, shortly after we got a couple emails from some people interested in putting it out. We are just waiting to hear back from them. Hopefully in the next couple months we will be able to say that we will have it out on vinyl.

Virginia has been producing some great bands in recent years, just to mention Naysayer, Fire And Ice or Down To Nothing, and the local scene seems to be blooming right now. What do you attribute it to?
Virginia does put out and has been putting out amazing bands. Down to Nothing, Fire and Ice, and Naysayer are all great bands, and doing really big things. I think its awesome to say I'm from Virginia and be part of this scene, I love it. I think what we attribute to it, is simply being from Virginia Beach. A lot of really good bands come out from the Beach, but not many people know about. So any way we can spread the word about them we do. There so many different sub-genres of hardcore that comes out of Virginia that there is something for everyone, which is really cool. We play more of a Hardcore/Metal Beatdown style, so I think thats the other thing we attribute to it.

Has it made it any easier to get their name out for bands like yours? And what are some of the bands who people from outside Virginia might still not know but they should check out?
A lot of really good bands coming out right now. Dead & Dreaming from Woodbridge are something you do not to sleep on, one of my favorites personally. Our friends in Paper Trail from VB just some new stuff out called, "Raw War," if you like heavy straight up hardcore check this out. Tough Luck, Break Away, and Upper Hand from Richmond are all doing really cool things right now. I could keep going cause there are so many good bands here.

What have been the high points and low points of being in hardcore scene?
Being in hardcore I've only had high points really. Meeting and becoming friends from all over the country is easily one of my favorite things about hardcore. Being able to see all my friends at a show in one place is awesome. Just the overall vibe that comes out of hardcore is awesome.

What do all the band members do outside the band and how is living in Virginia Beach like?
Aside from Lockdown, we all work and some of us go to school. We are actually kinda spread through out VA. Some of us live in Williamsburg and some of us live in Newport News. We don't actually live in VB anymore, but its were we go to all our shows and its where we call home.

I’ve heard you’re already working on some new tunes. Care to tell us something about it?
We are working on 2 news songs which we plan on recording in December for a split 7 inch with our friends in Dead & Dreaming. These two songs are easily the best songs we have written yet. They are heavier, faster, and harder. If you enjoy beatdown and heavy hardcore, our new songs are something you will want to check out.

Any last comments or shout outs before we finish?
Just want to say thanks for taking the time to do this interview with us. Check out all the bands coming out of VA, and keep and ear out for our new stuff. Hardcore Lives.

Wisdom In Chains - My Friend

End Begins - One Step Forward, A Lifetime Back

For years Full House records has been responsible for putting out some of the finest hardcore from Finland. Let’s just mention records from bands like Bolt, Ratface, Cutdown or Down My Throat which all bring some real heavy hitting rhythms. The sounds of End Begins fits pretty well alongside those bands. While the main focus seems to be on keeping it heavy, the songs are varied enough to offer some groove and catchy hooks. It’s hard not to be repetitive playing this type of stuff and band’s influences are clear for all to see, but the album has managed to keep my attention from start to finish. First of all, although this is their first album, the band has been around for couple of years now and you can sense they got time to learn how to use their gear. The song are pretty complex, but thankfully not too sophisticated and there’s no overload of technical wankery. If I had to draw any comparisons, I would say late Madball, some Hatebreed, maybe some Merauder influences also thrown in for a good measure. Basically, you get the idea. The first track kicks things off with tough as nails riffs and pounding drums which basically establish the mood for the rest of the songs. Thematically, they are not breaking any new grounds, but it’s still some verses to bench press or hit heavy bag to. Plus, I give them mad props for boxing themed artwork!

Review by Dloogi
Label: Full House Records
Year: 2011
Band's website

Cornered - Downfall/Fuck Off

New Blood: Out Of Time

Out Of Time is new and upcoming hardcore band out of St. Louis with some tough as nails sound and sharp attitude to match. Not many Missouri bands are getting attention here in Europe but this one is definitely worth checking out. They've got demo tape already out and there are plans for releasing it on vinyl as well. Not to mention the upcoming split on 6131 Records. Brennen, band's singer, explains how the band got together, what they're up to and shed shed some light on band's future plans.

Out Of Time is new and upcoming hardcore band out of St. Louis with some tough as nails sound and sharp attitude to match. Not many Missouri bands are getting attention here in Europe but this one is definitely worth checking out. They've got demo tape already out and there are plans for releasing it on vinyl as well. Not to mention the upcoming split on 6131 Records. Brennen, band's singer, explains how the band got together, what they're up to and shed shed some light on band's future plans

Can you tell us something about the band? Who is who in the band and how did you got together to form Out Of Time?
My name is Brennen and I sing in Out Of Time. Out of Time started practicing at the beginning of 2011. Jake Lindsay (Bass) and myself got in touch with our friends Travis Downey (Guitar), Kyle Caldwell (Guitar), and Ross Gordon (Drums) in St. Louis. They had been working on a new band and wanted us to be a part of it. So Jake and I drove made the drive from Champaign, IL to St Louis, MO. We put out a demo in June and did an east coast stint this past summer.

What has the response to your demo been so far? How is the tape selling? I have heard there are plans to press your demo in seven inch format. What’s up with that?
Honestly, way more awesome than i ever expected. The tape is on it's second pressing as of right now. We put out a few copies for our east coast dates on our own. Once they sold out, Born Ill from California then put out 100 tapes for us. Lost Time Records from Michigan will be pressing a mastered version of our demo on 7" in time for our January dates out west.

And can you tell us about the upcoming split? Who are the other bands involved and what label is to release it? Music-wise, how different are the songs on the split from your demo?
We are putting out a 3-way split 7" with our good friends in FOCUSEDXMINDS and ANOTHER MISTAKE. It will be released by 6131 Records in Spring, and we couldn't be more excited about it. As far as new songs go, the new jams are the best we've written yet. We're definitely starting to come into our own with these new tracks, and I'm very excited to let everyone hear.

You seem to be real hard working band, with all release plans and number of shows you do. What is your main source of motivation? And what are some of the toughest challenges you face running a hardcore band?
Honestly, the thing that keeps this band going is our mutual love for hardcore and touring. Hardcore is one of the few things in my life that makes sense to me. I remember going to shows when i was younger and seeing some of my first hardcore shows. I remember thinking "maybe someday my band will be someone's first experience of hardcore". Hardcore has given me a place to call home and has allowed me to do more with my life than i ever thought imaginable at age 19. The least we can do is try and leave our mark on it.

What are the records or bands that made the biggest impression on you in 2011?
I'm probably the worst person to ask this question to, seeing as I'm not always the most up to date on newer releases. New Naysayer, Rotting Out, and Dead End Path full lengths were all awesome for sure. 2012 has me really excited for new releases. Bent Life are doing a 7" on 6131 that I cannot wait for. Renegades is also putting out a new 7" on Lost Time. That band and that label both are extremely underrated.

Do you guys listen to any bands from Europe?
I always have and always will love Justice. Forever bummed I never got to see them. Wardogs had one of the coolest demos I've heard in a while. Sucks they called it quits. Lost Time is putting out a Bang Bros demo on cassette. That band is awesome. Our good friends in Expire just had a stint over in Europe too. Shout outs to those guys.

Ok, thanks a lot for doing it. If you want to share any future plans or any final thoughts before we wrap up, now is your chance.
Check us out on our Midwest Weekend with Another Mistake or our West Coast tour this January! Midwest on Top!

Earth Crisis - Total War