'With Or Without You' by Strenght Approach to be released March 19th
Strenght Approach "With Or Without You 12" full length will hit the streets on the 19th of March. "This new record will be a new chapter in the SA history and definitely harder than our previous stuff. DRA will take care of an amazing vinyl version.A freedigital version will be available online with our merch right after the store dates will be announced and be sure to take a listen to this new effort if you dig real hardcore in the veins of Sick Of It All, Madball and the godfathers of hc, Agnostic Front," Alex SA. Vinyl Version will be available in different wax: 100 in Red, 100 in Orange & 300 in Black! Order it at the DRA Webstore – – or buy it at one of those great record dealers worldwide!
Interview: Raph, Body Seasons Authentik Tattoo Studio
As cliché as it might sound, hardcore is much more than music. It might be a lifestyle centered around music, but it goes deeper than that. Started by a bunch of angry kids, the culture has spread to so many things over the years. Important ideas and politics of all kind have been introduced to the scene, but also more down to earth stuff like fanzines, dance, books, tattoos help to preserve the spirit and identity of the movement. We’re going to focus on the tattoo aspect right now. Here’s interview with Raph, French tattoo artist working for Body Seasons Authentik studio whose style and vision is deeply rooted in old school tattoo fashion.
As cliché as it might sound, hardcore is much more than music. It might be a lifestyle centered around music, but it goes deeper than that. Started by a bunch of angry kids, the culture has spread to so many things over the years. Important ideas and politics of all kind have been introduced to the scene, but also more down to earth stuff like fanzines, dance, books, tattoos help to preserve the spirit and identity of the movement. We’re going to focus on the tattoo aspect right now. Here’s interview with Raph, French tattoo artist working for Body Seasons Authentik studio whose style and vision is deeply rooted in old school tattoo fashion.Hello Raph, well first of all can you quickly introduce yourself ?
Well my name is Raph (Raph M. not to be confused with another French tattoo-artist), and I've been tattooing at the BSA (Body Seasons Authentik) studio in Aix-en-provence for five years now, I had been doing it for a few years at home before that but I really started my formation here, with Mr.Biz.
How did you come to the tattoo world ? What motivated you to go this way ?
I've always drawn, and I've always liked tattoos, and since I graduated in art studies, at one point I thought “why not combining the two and make it my job ?” so I started looking into it and basically that's how it happened ...
Any artist that influenced you maybe ? Not necessarily tattoo artists, people who inspired you ?
Well to say the truth, what kind of drew me to in the first place is music. Originally I didn't really have any tattoo culture, but when I was a kid I listened to quite a lot of hard-rock and metal, and every guy in every band was tattooed, and I liked it so much, that's what got me hooked up on it. So I have plenty of memories of the old shitty tattoos of Slash and Axl Rose that I liked at the time, then Kerry King, Phil Anselmo were pretty inked too, yeah that's how it started.
Any style of predilection ? Themes maybe, what do you like tattooing ?
I love old-school, I also like the chicano style a lot, but yeah I just love working on old-school pieces.
Musically, I know you're a major hardcore fan, how did you encounter this style ?
I come from hard-rock, when I was really a kid, and metal too, I'm from 83, when I started listening to hard-rock I must have been about six, because of my big sister, my friends' big brothers and everything. In secondary I started listening to stuff like Testament, Obituary, a bit of Deicide and Cannibal Corpse and all these things, but mainly I was really into the Guns'n Roses and Metallica, it was all through the big brothers actually, we would get the tapes from them, it was a bunch of old school metalheads, with patch-jackets and stuff. Then when I got to high-school I met a guy who was from a punk background, listening to a lot of skatecore and punk-rock, Pennywise, NOFX … and he was the one who introduced me to hardcore, he gave me my first tapes, Backfire, Discipline, the firsts Hatebreed … I immediately got hooked up on it, I really thought I was corresponding me perfectly, the brutal aspect of metal with this little kind of “ghetto” touch, it was perfect. Then the firsts shows, fucking shit up …
What link do you think exists between the two cultures of hardcore and tattoo ?
Well the two have always been linked I think, it is part of the culture, with origins in punk and metal, both always had been linked with tattoos so guess it's quite logical.
What does it represent to you, hardcore music ?
To me, it's all about the music, at least before anything else. I've always been deep into music. Today it's way more shared and many people, I mean I don't want to be an old cunt, but they discover this and they dig the looks, the ink, all that, but the music goes after that. For me, hardcore is music, it's passionate music. Passion before trend, that's the main value I think.
Check out: http://bsatattoo.com/
New Blood: Tirade
London has for long been a breeding ground to some of the hardest bands in Europe. Not only big city life creates a need for creative release of everyday anger, stress and frustration, but also the presence of notorious bands like Knuckledust, Ninebar or TRC creates a good environment for this type of sound. Tirade is one of the newest addition to London scene having been around since 2010, although the guys involved in the project have been active in number of household bands like Injury Time and Ninebar. Here’s what Tom, who does vocals for the Tirade, had to say in an interview we did recently.
London has for long been a breeding ground to some of the hardest bands in Europe. Not only big city life creates a need for creative release of everyday anger, stress and frustration, but also the presence of notorious bands like Knuckledust, Ninebar or TRC creates a good environment for this type of sound. Tirade is one of the newest addition to London scene having been around since 2010, although the guys involved in the project have been active in number of household bands like Injury Time and Ninebar. Here’s what Tom, who does vocals for the Tirade, had to say in an interview we did recently.Listening to the demo it sounds like the band was born out of a fascination with the raw and heavy side of hardcore music – can you tell me about that?
Well we originally came together with the aim of playing heavy mid tempo hardcore. Over the course of writing our first 6 songs our sound has strayed a bit from that, but as you can tell we definitely are influenced by some of the older dark and heavy bands eg Sheer Terror, Breakdown, Merauder.
This is some of the stuff that really got me deep into HC back in the 90s. Of course as you can probably hear we have some elements of more typical straight up HC and maybe a couple of beatdown type moments too, that definitely describes what we are into as a band.
How would you describe the lyrical content of the first demo? Is there any advice or knowledge that you would like to get across to the listeners?
The first demo lyrics are all quite personal, dealing with topics such as overcoming everyday struggles, people who are all talk and image but no action, growing older and more disillusioned, fighting against whatever holds you back. So not really looking to put across too much of a specific message with my lyrics, they are a vent for the experiences, frustrations and realities of everyday life and about getting beyond them, something I think everyone can relate to.
London hardcore has always been a breeding ground for heavy, tight sounding bands. What do you attribute it to?
Don't know really, some pretty diverse bands have come from London and continue to emerge, but I guess acts like 50 Caliber, BDF and in more recent years Prowler have been instrumental in exposing the metallic beatdown style that our city became notorious for. Newer bands like Crippler seem to be keeping this sound going for the next generation. You are definitely right in thinking there is an affection for the heavier end of things here!
The other thing about London based bands is the longevity of the bands, something not that common among other scenes. You have Knuckledust as a good example. It deserves respect, especially taking under consideration the high cost of living in London. What’s your opinion about it?
We have a core of older heads in London, of which I am proud to say I am one, who have been going to shows and playing in at least one if not more bands for well over a decade with no sign of quitting, that's what I would attribute the longevity of many London bands to.
Knuckledust are definitely an inspiration and I am proud to say Tirade's first show was their 15 year anniversary show, an amazing night for many reasons. I guess their consistency and dedication as well as that of other bands helps to keep the spotlight on London.
Can you recall any challenges you faced while balancing the personal life with being part of hardcore?
Its an ongoing challenge, balancing life, work and relationships with rehearsing, recording and playing shows, obviously I spend a lot of time looking at schedules so that we can book practices as we are still writing new material. We are all older guys who still devote lots of time to HC so we have outside pressures like work or looking for work, and our guitarist Si will be getting married in a few months.
So everything we do has an element of challenge in it, we are all fully committed to Tirade though so all these outside pressures are just something we have to deal with in order to further ourselves as a band, we will never let them get in the way of something we love.
Have you ever felt like giving up? What kept you going?
Not sure if you mean giving up on life in general or HC? I guess the two are linked very closely in my case, hardcore really has always kept me going and given me something to look forward to. I love to play, write or just go to shows and this has stayed constant with age, continuing to inspire me along with the obvious things like family and friends.
Do you remember what stirred the desire to be in hardcore band in you?
That is going back a while, I guess it was the mid 90s when everyone in London was quite new to hardcore, first getting to know each other, realising what was possible and making connections. The whole 'support your scene, Do it yourself' aspect of hardcore was fresh in everyones minds and it was a very different time to now.
As for nowadays and what started Tirade, we are all good friends and longtime hardcore fans who spend plenty of time together anyway, our bassist Paulie, drummer Ammo and guitarist Si had been jamming together in one way or another for a while, I was looking for something else to get involved in having finished the new Nine Bar album, and we first got together and started writing in November 2010.
Do you still follow any new bands in the scene? What are some UK bands we should check out?
Yes of course, both on a UK level and also worldwide I am always keen to hear new bands.
In the UK I would urge people to check out all the Rucktion Records acts such as my other band Nine Bar, also Kartel and Diction who both have new releases in the works, Chains of Hate who have a split CD with Surge of Fury about to drop, as well as True valliance, Deathskulls, Prowler, Injury Time.
Cold hard truth and Pay the Price are some other bands from around the UK I would definitely recommend.
What are the plans for the band? What should we except from Tirade in the future?
We plan to keep on writing, we already have a couple of new songs well on the way to being ready so we are at the early stages of thinking about a followup release. Also hoping to play as many shows as possible in 2012. I'm also gonna be designing shirts in the next few weeks.
Look My Way - Tension Building
First official video of this German band. Filmed and edited by Toni BDHW.
Jungle Fever - Winning Mentality
Jungle Fever hails from Italy and delivers some seriously energy-driven hardcore. They formed just in 2011 and already got this Ep out which brings some NYHC-flavored tunes. They name bands like Breakdown, Dmize, Rest in Pieces or Leeway as their main source of influences and it can be heard. The band got all the musical elements locked down tight and everything just flows so naturally from fast parts to slick breakdowns. The vocals are strong and have a good vibe which fits perfectly with the music. Good stuff, I look forward to hear more from these guys! Download it!
Ten of Swords - Wages Of Sin
Ten Of Swords was brought to existence when Enemymind’s frontman Mike McGuire and Sanctify Her Death guitarist Derek Kovacs decided to start a band with a mission to “become one of the heaviest, most negative bands to ever hit the underground”. The band’s style brings to mind some classic 90’ metallic hardcore sound but is updated with some modern licks and kicks. Hardcore at the base, lots of thrash riffing on top of it and a good deal of mosh to round it out. You can hear those guys know how to handle their shit, but even though they don’t overdo any technical tricks and that type of boring shit. Instead, each song is focused and goes hard and heavy driven by the urge for revenge and destruction.The band is a proof that sometimes it’s all about the feel. The vocals get the job done as well, I guess if the guy didn’t sound as vicious and angry as he does the record would be wholly lacking much of its energy. The bottom line is that this is very solid release if you’re in search for some heavy, metallic hardcore. Yes, it’s generic in many parts, but it doesn’t change that Wages Of Sin is a monster of an album. In tarot, Ten Of Swords means complete destruction, suffering and being stuck in a hopeless situation. Listening to these tunes makes you think about fucked up shit like this.
Review by Dloogi
Label: Fight for the Cause Records
Year:2010
Two Classic Vietnom Releases Available on Vinyl and Single CD
Year 2012 will be very busy for Spook Records, lots of hardwork and many new releases. The latest news is that New York's own Vietnom has joined to SR family and confirmed special vinyl releases. Limited "Thru My Eyes" as 7 inch and maybe also in this year "Death Is The Outcome" 12'. If you want to grab both albums on one CD, head on to Skinflint Music. Also, band's brand new album, 'Weapons Of Mass Destruction', will be released by Goodlife sometime this year.
La Dispute announce 'Wildlife' tour
La Dispute, based out of Grand Rapids, MI, have announced the details on their Wildlife tour. They will be joined by Balance and Composure, Sainthood Reps, and All Get Out.
Dates:
03/24 Minneapolis, MN Varsity Theater
03/25 Omaha, NE The Waiting Room
03/26 Iowa City, IA Gabe's
03/27 Lawrence, KS Jackpot Music Hall
03/28 Denver, CO Marquis Theatre
03/29 Ogden, UT The Basement
03/30 Boise, ID The Venue
03/31 Seattle, WA Vera Project
04/01 Portland, OR Branx
04/03 Oakland, CA Oakland Metro Operahouse
04/04 San Francisco, CA Sub-mission Art Space
04/05 Anaheim, CA Chain Reaction
04/06 Los Angeles, CA Center For The Arts, Eagle
04/07 Camarillo, CA Rock City
04/08 San Diego, CA Che Cafe
04/09 Phoenix, AZ The Underground
04/11 Midland, TX The Pine Box
04/12 Austin, TX Red 7
04/13 Houston, TX Warehouse Live
04/14 Dallas, TX Rubbergloves Rehearsal
04/15 Oklahoma City, OK Conservatory
04/16 St. Louis, MO Firebird
04/17 Nashville, TN The End
04/18 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
04/19 Tampa, FL The Orpheum
04/20 Pembroke Pines, FL The Talent Farm
04/21 Jacksonville, FL The Pit
04/22 Columbia, SC New Brookland Tavern
04/24 Raleigh, NC Southland Ballroom
04/25 Richmond, VA Kingdom
04/26 Baltimore, MD Otto Bar
04/27 Syracuse, NY Lost Horizon
04/28 Philadelphia, PA Union Transfer
04/29 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
04/30 Boston, MA The Middle East Downstairs
05/02 Montreal, QC La Sala Rosa
05/03 Toronto, ON Mod Club
05/04 Buffalo, NY Mohawk Place
05/05 Detroit, MI Magic Stick
05/06 Chicago, IL Metro
Recommended Songs:
La Dispute - Harder Harmonies (off Wildlife)
Balance and Composure - I Tore You Apart In My Head (off Separation)
By: Andrew Wedge
Dates:
03/24 Minneapolis, MN Varsity Theater
03/25 Omaha, NE The Waiting Room
03/26 Iowa City, IA Gabe's
03/27 Lawrence, KS Jackpot Music Hall
03/28 Denver, CO Marquis Theatre
03/29 Ogden, UT The Basement
03/30 Boise, ID The Venue
03/31 Seattle, WA Vera Project
04/01 Portland, OR Branx
04/03 Oakland, CA Oakland Metro Operahouse
04/04 San Francisco, CA Sub-mission Art Space
04/05 Anaheim, CA Chain Reaction
04/06 Los Angeles, CA Center For The Arts, Eagle
04/07 Camarillo, CA Rock City
04/08 San Diego, CA Che Cafe
04/09 Phoenix, AZ The Underground
04/11 Midland, TX The Pine Box
04/12 Austin, TX Red 7
04/13 Houston, TX Warehouse Live
04/14 Dallas, TX Rubbergloves Rehearsal
04/15 Oklahoma City, OK Conservatory
04/16 St. Louis, MO Firebird
04/17 Nashville, TN The End
04/18 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
04/19 Tampa, FL The Orpheum
04/20 Pembroke Pines, FL The Talent Farm
04/21 Jacksonville, FL The Pit
04/22 Columbia, SC New Brookland Tavern
04/24 Raleigh, NC Southland Ballroom
04/25 Richmond, VA Kingdom
04/26 Baltimore, MD Otto Bar
04/27 Syracuse, NY Lost Horizon
04/28 Philadelphia, PA Union Transfer
04/29 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
04/30 Boston, MA The Middle East Downstairs
05/02 Montreal, QC La Sala Rosa
05/03 Toronto, ON Mod Club
05/04 Buffalo, NY Mohawk Place
05/05 Detroit, MI Magic Stick
05/06 Chicago, IL Metro
Recommended Songs:
La Dispute - Harder Harmonies (off Wildlife)
Balance and Composure - I Tore You Apart In My Head (off Separation)
By: Andrew Wedge
Cancer Bats announce Canadian tour
Toronto, ON's Hardcore/Metal quartet Cancer Bats have announced a Canadian tour with Touche Amore and A Sight For Sewn Eyes. This tour is particularly awesome to me. A Sight For Sewn Eyes hails from Halifax, Nova Scotia. They're part of the East Coast (Canada) music scene that I've grown up around my entire life. They recently (as in two or three days ago) signed to the Canadian based label, Distort Entertainment. Anyone in the East Coast scene knows this is a huge deal. It's an extremely rare thing to have a band from such a small area get signed. They will always have all of our support. They are fantastic musically and everyone should check out their latest release '(nonsense)', a self-released, four-track, EP.If you don't know who Touche Amore are yet, then you should give your head a shake. They play a fast-paced, hard-hitting, style of melodic hardcore and right now are going nowhere but up. Their most recent release is their sophomore album 'Parting the Sea Between Brightness and Me'. Check it out. They are a must heard band by any hardcore music enthusiast.
As for Cancer Bats, this tour will be in support of their forth-coming album 'Dead Set On Living' via Distort. Check out the dates below:
3/30 Winnipeg, MB - Pyramid Cabaret
3/31 Brandon, MB - North Hill Inn
4/2 Fernie, BC - Northern Bar & Stage
4/3 Nelson, BC - Hume Hotel Spirit Bar
4/4 Vancouver, BC - The Biltmore Cabaret
4/5 Prince George, BC - The Generator
4/6 Edmonton, AB - The Pawnshop
4/7 Calgary, AB - Broken City
4/8 Saskatoon, SK - Sutherland Memorial Hall
4/10 Thunder Bay, ON - Black Pirates Pub
4/11 Sudbury, ON - Jubilee Hall
4/12 Kitchener, ON - Club Wax
4/13 Ottawa, ON - Mavericks Bar
4/14 Toronto, ON - The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern
4/15 St. Catharines, ON - L3 Nightclub
Recommended Songs by mentioned bands:
A Sight For Sewn Eyes - Dead'd (from (nonsense))
Touche Amore - Home Away From Here (from Parting the Sea Between Brightness and Me)
Cancer Bats - Old Blood (from upcoming Dead Set On Living)
By: Andrew Wedge
Reality Check - No Love For The Underdogs
Reality Check is considerably young band out of Warsaw, Poland but made of folks who have been active in local scene for some time. They take some influences from bands like Terror, Death Threat or Hoods, I guess you know the deal. The songs are fast and no bullshit, they get the job done fast with no fancy technical wankery and that's what I like it the most. The lyrics are 100% hardcore, dealing with topics like scene unity, friends and usual everyday bullshit. Honest, but not cliche. I suggest all of you download this shit, and not because they rep my hometown, but because this is just solid piece of hardcore. Download it!
New Blood: Risk
Risk has been around for over two years now, having released quite decent 2011 demo EP and more recently split with their folks Weightlifter. The band has intensive, thrashy sound which mixed with pissed-off lyrics makes for some decent tunes which must make crowd go crazy at their shows. Here’s a short interview with Brendan who handles vocal.
Risk has been around for over two years now, having released quite decent 2011 demo EP and more recently split with their folks Weightlifter. The band has intensive, thrashy sound which mixed with pissed-off lyrics makes for some decent tunes which must make crowd go crazy at their shows. Here’s a short interview with Brendan who handles vocal.Give us some background on what Risk is about?
We started a band as 4 best friends just trying to have fun, and it took off, at the end of the day it’s all about having fun with your best homies for us
Who is who and how did you start as a band?
I(Brendan) do vocals, Reeses shreds the guitar, Kaweh does bass, and Marky's our drummer. We were all over marks house on new year’s eve in 2009 and decided to start a band out of fun
Where you from and how is the scene over there?
We're from Billerica, Massachusetts. The scene out here is great, there's so many kids into hardcore and everyone is wicked supportive. Anchors Up is the best venue in the world, MVHC
Can you tell us a little about your releases - the 2011 EP and the split with Weightlifter?
With 2011, we wanted to change our sound completely and mature as a band, I gotta say I listen to 2011 at least once a week. The Split with Weightlifter, we decided we were going to put out a full length and wanted to drop a early teaser.
What are some of your main musical influences?
Literally every corner of hardcore, we take things from all the bands we listen to and switch it up into our style
And where do you get ideas for the lyrics from?
Random poetry, grand theft auto dialogue.
You played couple of fests last year, such as SkateFest or Deep Infest. How was it?
Skatefest 3 and 4 were great. I love playing in our hometown, especially for a great cause. Keep your eyes peeled for Skatefest 5! As for Deep In Fest, we actually had to drop that, reeses decided to get his wisdom teeth out and be a debby downer.
Best places to play shows? Worst?
The best venues we've played at are McGee’s Barnyard (RIP), Anchor's Up, The TUMC in Tewksbury, and The Kave in Maine. The worst venue is the Black Pearl, good riddance
How did you get into hardcore?
I started skating with some kids in Billerica who were into hardcore, and I got into from them. SHOT ON SIGHT CREW
What are your picks for best releases in 2011?
The Grift by Dry Heave, Isolation by Harm's Way What else can we expect from Risk in the future? We're dropping a full length sometime in 2012, along with new merch, summer tour, and big shows in the works
Any last words or shout outs?
97h8, sn, roadrunner, down and out, all i am, MVHC, featherweight, cerce, reset, and anyone who's supported us. Hardcore forever!
New Blood: Death Grip
I have a lot of respect for bands that take matters in their own hands, taking complete responsibility about every aspect of their existence from booking shows to releasing music. One example of such bands is Death Grip, brand new hardcore posse out of Pennsylvania that sticks to DIY ethics when it comes to handling their business. This interview was done some time ago so the biggest update is that Death Grip has put the "Forever In Doubt" album together and will release it in couple of days. If you’re into aggression and anger in hardcore, there’s no better way of spending couple of bucks than on supporting hard-working bands like this.
I have a lot of respect for bands that take matters in their own hands, taking complete responsibility about every aspect of their existence from booking shows to releasing music. One example of such bands is Death Grip, brand new hardcore posse out of Pennsylvania that sticks to DIY ethics when it comes to handling their business. This interview was done some time ago so the biggest update is that Death Grip has put the "Forever In Doubt" album together and will release it in couple of days. If you’re into aggression and anger in hardcore, there’s no better way of spending couple of bucks than on supporting hard-working bands like this.How would you describe the music on your first demo? How do you define your overall style?
It was more of a heavy style, and it was straight forward and to the point. Aggressive, anger-filled, and heartwarming. Focusing on the problems of society and exploiting them.
With the name of the band like Death Grip, do you try to put a positive message across in your music or do you prefer to rant about brutal side of life?
A little bit of both. We try to combine life situations and make a positive outcome out of it.
Undisputed is hell of a song! What’s the story behind the lyrics for that one?
Thanks! Undisputed is about the brotherhood of the PA hardcore scene, how strong our scene is, and that noone could take our love that we have for it away from us.
Before you write a song, where do you find inspiration? What's the first thing that comes to your mind?
Past and present experiences, Fucked up shit that’s happening throughout the world every day. It fuels the fire to our music.
You mentioned there are plans for full length in December. Give us some insight what should we expect from the new songs?
A more matured side of our music, We took a bunch of our influences and combined them into one, These songs are going to give people a new impression on Death Grip.
Have you already found a label interested in putting out the album?
We have been searching and have been talking to a few, But due to the lack of touring we unfortunately are still searching.
What’s the hardcore scene like in PA nowadays? What are some new bands from over there you feel everybody should give a try?
It's starting to rebuild to how it use to be. You could thank bands like Strength For a Reason, Wisdom In Chains, Not Til Death, Concrete Reality, CDC, Hold Me Back, Dead End Path, Unite Resist, and many more.
What is the craziest thing that ever happened at one of your shows?
Our first real show, We played Heart-On Fest last February at Eleanor Rigby's in Jermyn, PA with a ton of bands, And during Strength For A Reason's set, Some kid got hit and fell to the ground, cracked his head open. There was a pool of blood around head, Hopefully the kid is alright.
What are some other future plans for Death Grip? When can we expect a full length album?
We plan on doing touring during the spring/summer to promote our full length as much as we can. We will be releasing it sometime late February 2012, Stay posted!
Shout outs and/or last comments?
We would like to thank you for giving us this interview! It's much appreciated. Keep the scene alive, Don't follow it because it might be the latest trend or the cool thing to do. Feel the passion in your heart. And check out our good friends in: Murder Death Kill, Strength For A Reason, Not Til Death, Hold Me Back, Vice, and Unite Resist. Thanks!
Hardway Interview
Towards The Light, recently released output by Italy-based Hardway, showcases the band at its best. Fast, intense hardcore executed with a solid flow and great musical production. There’s a lot of energy to these songs, but you can’t help sensing the feeling of anger, dirt and pain creeping through. Almost five years into its existence, the band seems to finally have found its playing sound. Here’s the short interview with the band about the new EP.
Towards The Light, recently released output by Italy-based Hardway, showcases the band at its best. Fast, intense hardcore executed with a solid flow and great musical production. There’s a lot of energy to these songs, but you can’t help sensing the feeling of anger, dirt and pain creeping through. Almost five years into its existence, the band seems to finally have found its playing sound. Here’s the short interview with the band about the new EP.Tell us something about the upcoming EP, "Towards The Light"? Is there any major difference compared to your last album?
Towards The Light is the new EP coming out really soon on StrikeDown Records, it contains 5 tracks we've written and arranged during the last 2 years. Compared to our last album (Hold Out To The Last) is more intense and visceral, we've tried to search a raw sound, less metallic without the drum trigger and other studio effects. It's definitely more mature, the gloomy lyrics describing anger, hope, pain and dreams in drastic visions. We're really satisfied about it.
Towards The Light - what does this title mean to you?
It means to always follow what you’re looking for, if you got a target, do all what you need to find and reach it. The Light suggests you the way to carry on and don't lost during the route.
When do you think the EP will be released?
In the first months of 2012.
Have the recent political and economical issues in Italy affected you personally or how you run the band in any way?
It will touch all of us indirectly, causes the increase of property taxes, on market prices, retirement prospects, we are all involved.
Do you have any opinion about the ongoing crisis in Italy, and Europe in general? How do you think it will evolve?
The crisis of 2008 was umpteenth time equation gone badly because of political speculation of banks and the average citizen who was addressing them as if it was an information door not considering the possible implications of their maneuvers debt.
Said that, in the near future we think that there will be a more significant gap between rich and poor even with current measures, if they can contribute to limit the stock of public debt does not facilitate the recovery and not even the development necessary to restart the economy.
What’s next after the EP is released? Do you have any other tours planned?
We're planning some shows to promote the new Ep, but most importantly we're working on new songs that blow your mind and we'll record them soon.
Is there anything else you want to say?
Thank you for interest in Hardway, follow us on facebook and our tumblr because more news are coming with new good tunes! Peace on earth war on stage!
Defiant Youth launched webstore. Merch from Terror, Suburban Scum and more!
Defiant Youth has recently launched its webstore with some decent-looking stuff from bands such as Terror, Suburban Scum, Downpresser and Alpha & Omega. All tees are limited to 50 pieces and hats to 24. All orders start shipping February 19th.
Chains Of Hate vs. Surge Of Fury split out now on Rucktion
New split between South Wales heavyweights Chains Of Hate and Belgium's hardest Surge Of Fury is out on Rucktion! Each band delivers three brand new songs plus one cover each; Surge Of Fury plays District 9's "Live Life" and Chains Of Hate does Cold As Life's "Cold As Life".
Death Grip to release "Forever In Doubt" in late February
Pennsylvania-based Death Grip plans to drop new album at February, 20th. "Forever In Doubt" will contain 8 tracks of heavy, hard-hitting hardcore combining old school sound with fast parts and heavy breakdowns. You can order the CD here.
HHF Benefit Show in London - Knuckledust, Cold Hard Truth and more!
The UK benefit show for The Hardcore Help Foundation (The HHF) will take place March, 24th at The Purple Turtle. Admission is £10 and everything goes to HHF. If you can, go and support a good cause! About HHF: hese shows have been happening all over Europe as a way of raising money towards a great cause and now it's London's turn to help - The HHF amongst other ventures recently have been providing support and funding to the victims and communities of the Japanese Tsunami disaster.It's about Friendship, Loyalty & helping each other out, when you're in a bad situation.
That's why The Hardcore Help Foundation was put in place. The HHF is a collaboration of friends and volunteers from all over the world to support (hardcore) kids and people who need serious help. We are collecting merch on hardcore shows and accept donations. We also have some own merch in our onlineshop for sale. All profit goes to people worldwide who need help. The Hardcore Help Foundation is a non profit project and part of an registered social association, Die Flotte e.V. in Bochum (Germany). A social club that helps people.
The London show line-up includes:
Knuckledust (UK)
Awoken (UK - REUNION!)
Cold Hard Truth (UK)
No Second Chance (UK)
Back To Square One (France)
Blade (Belgium)
Embrace Destruction (Italy)
Fort Vallance (UK)
United Blood (Belgium)
No Sense Of Decency (Germany)
Stand For Truth (Belgium)
No Direction (UK)
Go For It! posted new song Arbitrary Law
German-based Go For It! has posted new song, Arbitrary Law, which serves as a teaser for band's upcoming album Misantrophy. The album will contain 14 songs and come with couple of features. Internet rumors talk about Settle the Score and Cindy from All for Nothing.
Pre-order for the upcoming Take Offense EP are up at Reaper Records
Reaper has launched pre-orders for the new Take Offense four song 12″ EP “Under The Same Shadow." The EP is to be released in three color options: clean, black and gold vinyl. T-shirt plus vinyl packages are also available. Listen to the title track here.
United Riot to release NY Hoods' Neutral 86 Demo on 7"
United Riot plans to bring official re-release of classic 1986 Demo by NY Hoods. This is first time Neutral is released on vinyl! NY Hoods is classic NYHC with members who later went on to play in Side By Side, Absolution, Burn and Breakdown among others. The songs have been re-Mixed and remasted to top quality. You can order the vinyl here. Everyone who Pre-Orders gets a Digital Download and Exclusive Color Vinyl.
Brawl to drop new album via Westcoast Worldwide. 7" to be released by Irish Voodoo
Westcoast Worldwide Records has recently announced the signing of Boise, Idaho-based Brawl. The band recently completed its latest offering, “Punishment” at Pittbull Farms in Victorville, California with producer/engineer “Pitbull” Dan Banura (Murder Death Kill, Blood Stands Still, Donnybrook). The New album is set to drop March 6th, 2012. Irish Voodoo Records will handle 7″ duties for the release.“We couldn’t be more excited to join the WCWW family” states vocalist Eric Muniz. A lot of what we are about is old school ethics, hardcore pride, and hard work. Westcoast is totally about that too. It seems to be a great fit and we couldn’t be more in to it”.
“We love Brawls old school approach to hardcore”, comments Westcoast Worldwide founder Mikey Hood. “Friends, family, good times, and hardcore. That for us is really what it’s all about. These guys are rad. We love bands that play, and book tons of shows, and open venues, and really keep their scenes going. As for the sound, If you like bands like Death Before Dishonor, Propain, North Side Kings, or Breakdown you will love Brawl.”
Founded in 2010, Brawl has been pummeling the Northwest with two DIY releases under their belts, in addition to several tours. “Being a hardcore band from Boise is tough”, says Muniz. “There wasn’t a ton of opportunities for a band like us, so we had to make our own. We’re just four guys that really love this music and this scene, and we feel very fortunate that we get to play it, book it, be so involved in it, and enjoy it so much. Not only in our home state, but in other places as well. This really is our way of life.”
“Punishment” by Brawl will be available March 6th, 2012 on Westcoast Worldwide Records
Look for Brawl on tour with Murder Death Kill in Spring 2012
Terror - The New Blood
New Terror video pays respect to the true hardcore tradition. Keepers of the faith!
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.
Strikedown Records has launched pre-orders for new Hardway CDEP
Towards The Light, new EP from Italy-owned Hardway, will contain five songs of heavy and reckless hardcore. "More intense, visceral and relentless compared to the debut album, such as the lyrics more gloomy, describing anger, hope, pain and dreams in drastic vision," as described in the press release. The songs were recorder in February/March last year and mastered at Swift Mastering (London - UK). You can place your order, as well as check out one of the new songs, here.
Six Feet Under releases new music from Current, Gypsy, Wrong Answer and Guilty
Six Feet Under has started 2012 strong with new releases from Current, Gypsy, Wrong Answer and Guilty. Apart from Wrong Answer, I haven't heard any of these bands but they all seem interesting. Continue reading for official description of each release from the label.
GYPSY - Giant's Despair 12"/CD
This was a long time in the making. Finally seeing the light of day is the debut full length from GYPSY. "Giant's Despair" is 10 tracks that have been well worth the wait. Sounding even more now like Knapsack, Jawbeaker and Dinosaur Jr than the 7" did, the LP features top notch production from Will Yip (Blacklisted, Mother Of Mercy, War Hungry). Oh and they feature members of Cold World, Mother Of Mercy, Stick Together, and the dude who books United Blood, if you're into that sort of thing. The track Sleep Well can be heard on the SFU Homepage. The LP will be available in 3 colors on a first come first serve basis. There will also be a deluxe edition out of 50 with a special color limited to 50 and containing one of the dreamcatchers used in the cover photo shoot, along with a few other extras.
CURRENT - Peace, Love 7"
Another new band on the roster, CURRENT hails from Syracuse, NY and came to our attention after we heard their impressive demo earlier this year. After several sporadic gigs in upstate NY opening for Polar Bear Club, Harvest and some others they got it together to write this 7" for SFU and despite us taking forever to get it out its finally ready for preorder. 6 songs clocking in at almost 13 minutes, sonically appealing to fans of everything from Burn to Quicksand to Bane to Modern Life Is War with ex members of Meltdown, Forfeit and Unholy and current members of Reign Supreme.
GUILTY - s/t 7"
We are pleased to bring you Sweden's finest export, GUILTY. Their demo also caught our eye earlier this year after our friends at Control Records told us to check it out. The demo is great and the new 7" is even better, featuring 4 new tracks drawing influences from the Cro Mags, Madball and a healthy does of Master Of Puppets era Metallica. Don't sleep on this 7", it's one of the best we've heard here in a while.
Being released in conjunction with in Sweden and Carry The Weight Records in the UK. SFU will have 2 colors of vinyl available, 400 pressed total, and the other labels will have 1 color each.
WRONG ANSWER - Cross A Black Cat's Path 7"
Philadelphia's premier naughty youth crew band, WRONG ANSWER are back with their new 7" and first for SFU. After 2 records on Harvcore and tours of Europe and the US, Wrong Answer is a welcome addition to the SFU Family and we are pleased to be working with Ogden again (i think?).
GYPSY - Giant's Despair 12"/CD
This was a long time in the making. Finally seeing the light of day is the debut full length from GYPSY. "Giant's Despair" is 10 tracks that have been well worth the wait. Sounding even more now like Knapsack, Jawbeaker and Dinosaur Jr than the 7" did, the LP features top notch production from Will Yip (Blacklisted, Mother Of Mercy, War Hungry). Oh and they feature members of Cold World, Mother Of Mercy, Stick Together, and the dude who books United Blood, if you're into that sort of thing. The track Sleep Well can be heard on the SFU Homepage. The LP will be available in 3 colors on a first come first serve basis. There will also be a deluxe edition out of 50 with a special color limited to 50 and containing one of the dreamcatchers used in the cover photo shoot, along with a few other extras.
CURRENT - Peace, Love 7"
Another new band on the roster, CURRENT hails from Syracuse, NY and came to our attention after we heard their impressive demo earlier this year. After several sporadic gigs in upstate NY opening for Polar Bear Club, Harvest and some others they got it together to write this 7" for SFU and despite us taking forever to get it out its finally ready for preorder. 6 songs clocking in at almost 13 minutes, sonically appealing to fans of everything from Burn to Quicksand to Bane to Modern Life Is War with ex members of Meltdown, Forfeit and Unholy and current members of Reign Supreme.
GUILTY - s/t 7"
We are pleased to bring you Sweden's finest export, GUILTY. Their demo also caught our eye earlier this year after our friends at Control Records told us to check it out. The demo is great and the new 7" is even better, featuring 4 new tracks drawing influences from the Cro Mags, Madball and a healthy does of Master Of Puppets era Metallica. Don't sleep on this 7", it's one of the best we've heard here in a while.
Being released in conjunction with in Sweden and Carry The Weight Records in the UK. SFU will have 2 colors of vinyl available, 400 pressed total, and the other labels will have 1 color each.
WRONG ANSWER - Cross A Black Cat's Path 7"
Philadelphia's premier naughty youth crew band, WRONG ANSWER are back with their new 7" and first for SFU. After 2 records on Harvcore and tours of Europe and the US, Wrong Answer is a welcome addition to the SFU Family and we are pleased to be working with Ogden again (i think?).
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
Death Row and Power Play pre-orders launched in Ratel Webstore
Ratel Records has launcher pre-orders for upcoming Death Row and Power Play 7"s. Death Row plays reckless, honest and in your face hardcore and they proudly represent Warsaw, Poland. Power Play is a Kiev, Ukraine-based hate machine which is sure to make heads roll with their debut EP - Roar of the Street Dogz. All orders ship early February 2012.
New album from Lionheart is coming soon
[Official info]: Mediaskare Records is proud to announce that California’s own Lionheart will be entering the studio in January with producers Matt Hyde (Hatebreed, Slayer, Terror) and Nick Jett (Terror). They will be recording at The Sunset Lodge in Silverlake, CA. The follow up to 2011’s Built On Struggle is slated for an early 2012 release. “It’s an exciting opportunity to be able to work with Matt Hyde and Nick Jett on this album,” says Lionheart vocalist Rob Watson. “Matt Hyde’s resume speaks for itself, and we know Nick from previous tours done together so it will be awesome to work together on something like this. We’ve been working on this record since the release of Built On Struggle, and we can’t wait to start recording it. It’s heavier, harder, and more pissed than anything we’ve done to date.” You can catch the band on the upcoming Persistence Tour in Europe with Suicidal Tendencies, Biohazard, Terror, etc. and on the first day of this year’s New England Metal and Hardcore Festival with The Black Dahlia Murder.
Face Your Enemy - Losing Control
Latest Face Your Enemy video for Losing Control from the "Message in a Bomb" album.
Bridge Nine Signs The Alligators (members of AF and Insted)bers)
[Official info] Four of some of hardcore’s most important names from both coasts got together to finally bring back that early 80′s hardcore sound; this sound is called The Alligators, and they will be releasing a new record on Bridge Nine in 2012. Featuring members Roger Miret (Agnostic Front), Rich Labbate (Insted), Steve Larson (Insted) and Barret Burt (Insted), The Alligators sound a bit like something that might’ve been filed in between Miret’s primary band, Agnostic Front’s, landmark albums United Blood and Victim In Pain and is undoubtedly an old school hardcore band. The Alligators wear their influences on their sleeve – tipping their hat to bands like SSD, Antidote, Negative Approach, Poison Idea, Scream and more. Vocalist Roger Miret commented, “The Alligators has been a fun side project i’ve been doing with the guys from Insted(California Hardcore band from the 80’s) – an odd fit you might think, but make no mistake: those guys are hard. Rich and I have been friends since the early 80’s and periodically talked about doing music together, so this is a record I’ve been meaning to do for a long time coming. With the addition of DYS and Antidote to B9 roster and the re-release of Agnostic Front’s ‘VIP/United Blood’, we are happy to add this to the Bridge Nine family.”
The Alligators’ debut full-length for Bridge Nine Records, titled Time’s Up, You’re Dead, is slated to hit stores on March 27th, 2012 and more information regarding album details, new song premieres and upcoming shows will surface soon.
The Alligators’ debut full-length for Bridge Nine Records, titled Time’s Up, You’re Dead, is slated to hit stores on March 27th, 2012 and more information regarding album details, new song premieres and upcoming shows will surface soon.
Far Beyond Our Depth, debut EP by Providence, re-released at Rucktion
Since the beginning of December you can order a re-release of 'Far Beyond Our Depth', first EP by French war machine Providence at Rucktion webstore. The album has been sold out since 2010, so if you still don't own it here's your chance. The new version includes newly improved artwork! The other news from the band are that there's a new line-up: xReggiex of the 90' legendary Parisian band Drowning (BTB, RPP) joined as guitarist and Mika168 from Third Man Down( Hellsinki, Finland Hardcore) joined as bass player. Drowning is one of my favorite bands ever so can't wait to see the band live! And while you at Rucktion webstore, check out the CD version of King Of Clubz/Providence split! Other Rucktion news: South Wales heavyweights Chains Of Hate are teaming up with Belgium's hardcore veterans Surge Of Fury for a new split CD coming out on Rucktion very soon! Watch this space.
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
Bitter End video for “The Hand That Feeds” off their last album Guilty As Charged.
New 7" from Wolf City to be released on Irish Voodoo Records
Irish Voodoo Records have started pre orders for the new Wolf City 7" called "Better Days". The label is also selling 25 test pressings, hand stamped and numbered. If you're not familiar with the band: Named after the University of Nevada Wolf Pack, Wolf City was born in 2009. Calling Reno home, their sound is fast, mean, in your face, but not watered down.
