(no subject)
Here we are: nearly 5 months later with something to piss and moan about. I read my previous post, and the only thing that has changed since June is that I'm in ZERO bands at the moment, and I finally have a functioning, breathing, living, beautiful girlfriend. You WIN some, you lose some.
Since the last time I wrote in June, I was able to tour the western United States with the old band I joined in April this year, BANKROBBER. It was easily the best time of my entire life, and I did it on my own terms. Had fun by myself in most instances. On August 25th, 2008 I had the most incredible day of my entire life. This is no exaggeration. I will remember this day for the rest of my life. We crossed the border into Vancouver, British Columbia, and prior to this, I had no birth certificate or social security card with me. My hopes for experiencing all Canada has to offer were looking not so great. I was able to spend the day with a buddy that lives up north named KC. He sings in a badass band called A Crow’s Glory, who we were supposed to do the tour with, but they had to unfortunately drop off. Anyways, the plan was to go with him separately through the border, instead of going with the bands in the van. It would look less sketchy and the chance of me being accepted through were much more likely. It all worked out, and I was granted access. The weight lifted off my shoulders that day was enormous to say the least. Not only would I have had to make BANKROBBER miss the chance to play a show in Canada, I would have had to hang out by myself in a small town called Blaine, Washington. There was NOTHING in that town. I would have wound up dead or raped, I’m sure. We walked around downtown Van, shopped at some sweet shoe and clothing boutiques. I went into one of the various Marijuana bars on the streets and looked around. It was incredible. Vancouver does have a pretty bad drug problem, however. And the homeless population there is immense. There are blue needle packages lining the streets from heroin users. Definitely a surreal site. Canada’s health care systems provide Vancouver drug users with safe, clean, in-clinic injections because it is much easier and less expensive to treat the patients and get them to kick the habit. Unbelievable. Later in the day we loaded in around six or so, after picking up Dan Don from Horizons/Daggermouth and a couple friends. All were cool dudes. The show went very well. After the show, I went to a bar and downed two brews without being I.D’d (legal drinking age is 19), went to Dan’s place and smoked more than anyone should in one given night, and crossed the border being very nervous, ha! This is way lame, but I’d never felt so alive in my entire life. I had absolutely no worries, no fears, no bullshit to deal with. I felt like I could do anything that day. It was truly an amazing feeling and I hope one day to encounter it again. I’m sure I could write more about the tour, but that was the day that was really worth talking about. I hope I can tour again next year. It’s still all I want to do with my life. The picture below is in downtown Vancouver. Good times!
I currently am holding two jobs at the moment, Target and Petsmart. It's almost as frustrating as getting punched in the face by a large, 250 lb. ego. At this state, I am more of a corporate bitch than any human being should subject themselves to. I make absolutely no money, and plans of college are in the works. I never thought it would come down to this, unfortunately. College is the last thing I want to do with my life right now. However, I put off college in order to play shows, tour, and act like an idiot. Look where that ended up. It became such an obssessed, ridiculous dream of mine that it just imploded and ended up having to take a hault for awhile. On that note, Viper : Viper has tentative plans to re-form early next year. The original lineup before the eventual break-up earlier this year included. It's going to be much less serious, with shows only every 2 months or so, and a couple out of state shows if possible only during school breaks. It was real nice having a break from being in a band for about the first three weeks, and then it started to get on my nerves. On the other hand, I have way more time to do other shit, which is pretty awesome. I think I'm getting ready to play hockey regularly again, and get in shape. My enthusiasm recently remains to be seen, but i'm hopeful for next year. Quitting hockey for so long was definitely a mistake. Playing NHL '09 all the time is motivation in itself to get on the ice and skate, as opposed to just using my thumbs a lot.
For the first time in my life, I've attained a pretty concrete sense of nationalism. I am finally proud to be a part of the United States after this recent election. Call me 'trendy', but millions and millions of other citizens have been severely impacted by it as well. There's a clear reason for the madness. President-elect Obama, in my opinion, ran a near flawless campaign that was obviously well-funded by its wealth of supporters. The campaign was also more focused, less-negative, and much more believable than McCain's camp. In addition, Obama was able to reach every demographic in the US. If you want to win an election, you better do everything in your power to reach out to the less fortunate citizens: the ones that need help the most. The fact that Obama picked a VP, Joe Biden, with experience and legitimacy seemed to help too. McCain, from the beginning, criticized Obama for his lack of experience. He then went out and chose a VP by the name of Governor Palin, who is even less experienced. That choice alone was his biggest mistake in the campaign. I was not able to take their campaign seriously, as many others felt as well. At the start of this race, I made a personal choice to see both sides with no distraction; not listen to my parents, not watch televised election coverage, etc. Closer and closer to the end, I decided early to register as a Democrat, watch more Keith Olbermann, and find out why FOX news ruins everything. I still cannot believe I was a part of this major historical moment in history. We will see how these next four years go. Hopeful indeed.
For the last three and a half months, I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with an incredible little lady named Karina. We met at work (Target), and started dating about a month and a half after I started. It has been completely perfect so far. We have never argued about anything, or anyone. Relationships only seem to work if you just shut the fuck up and keep it real. Just support one another in everything you do, be understanding of certain situations, and don’t over do it. If you hang out every single day, all day, you will probably run into some problems. If you are controlling and jealous, you will probably run into some problems. If you have extremely low self-esteem, and seem to like me more than yourself, it just will not work. If you hate the fact that I love Marijuana, then problems will arise. This girl is everything you want in a person. Every girl I’ve been with has had one or all of those problems, and you can always tell if a relationship is going to last or not. After about three weeks with previous girlfriends, I wanted out immediately. In this case, I want to stay around for as long as possible. I want to never make a mistake. I always want to be there for her in every way.
I like my new Fall/Winter ‘08 life. It may not consist of being a part of the stagnant and dismal hardcore scene anymore. It may not include comfortable job security. It may not impress friends or family, but it’s what it is right now. This year has just been a huge “fuck you” to a lot of people, and it’s for the best. The less people you know, the happier you become. Find people you love, and just stick with them. By the end of next year, I will have a new car, a new job, a place to call home, and Viper : Viper will be playing a couple of shows. I am more than excited. Stay tuned.
Now, I leave you with my top 20 records of 2008 list:
1. Sigur Rós - 'Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust'
In reality, this is an impossible three way tie between the first three records, however 'Með suð' takes the first place victory. Seeing this band a couple months ago up close at Red Rocks was a very moving experience. Everything this band does is new, interesting, and unmatched. Smoke a tiny bit, listen to track 9, called Fljótavík, and find yourself on a journey to a new land. I will be getting a SR tattoo later this year.
2. Russian Circles - 'Enter'
Along the same lines as Sigur Rós, this band is unmatched and genre-bending. I saw them perform twice this year, and was blown away equally both times. I am also stoked that Brian Cook is a full-time member now. He is someone I look up to and highly respect for his beliefs, and his other amazing projects, Botch and These Arms. Check this record out. It will blow your mind.
3. Drag The River - 'You Can't Live This Way'
Hey, thanks for breaking up, making me incredibly sad, then getting back together, releasing all of these previously un-released tracks that were recorded before the break up, and then making me smile again. Best band ever. Shit. Tobacco Fields.
4. Grave Maker - 'Bury Me At Sea'
Hands down, the best band in hardcore right now, and probably will be next year too. Had the pleasure of sharing the stage with this band twice this year, and they are not only the hardest working band on the planet, they are the most down to earth, nice dudes. This is one of the only bands that makes me want to mosh like a madman. Busted my nose up during a circle pit last time. Bad bad idea. I really want to see this out on vinyl. Maybe I’ll finance its release one day on my own.
5. Thrice - 'The Alchemy Index: Earth & Air - Vol. 3 & 4
Thrice will always be my number one favorite band. These last two volumes of the Alchemy Index are amazing. This band takes progression to a new level. I envy and respect them for everything they have created. Oh, and thanks for playing the Black Sheep this year. Best show of the year. Every time you come through and play the Fillmore with fucking shitty bands, I never go.
6. Devin The Dude - 'Landing Gear'
Where da shwishaz at? I love this dude. His songs not only keep it real as fuck, the musical aspects to his songs are incredible. Devin creates the most chill, mood enhancing beats and flows known to man. His songs are clever and hilarious. Sometimes, you can even relate to what he is saying. Best hip-hop ever. This record rules. More of an R&B feel to this record. Very very smooth and relaxing.
7. Ace Enders And A Million Different People - 'The Secret Wars'
I’m not sure if this was an actual official release, but damn it’s good! I love Ace from his work in the Early November, so it’s no surprise that I would check this out. He writes great pop anthems, hooks, lines, choruses, you name it.
8. Torche - 'Meanderthal'
Just recently got super into this record. I just saw them a couple weeks ago with Coliseum at the Larimer Lounge. One of the best shows I have ever seen. My ears were ringing afterwards for a few days due to the extreme amount of noise that both bands create. Full stacks, full stacks, full stacks. This record is absolutely great. They have created their own sound, and I respect that a lot. They sound so full, driving, catchy and perfect. Excited to see what else this band does in the future. Stoner pop!
9. Have Heart - 'Songs To Scream At The Sun'
Kurt Ballou did a fantastic job tracking this record at Godcity. It sounds raw, powerful, and the bass tones throughout the ten well-constructed songs blow me away. Lots of haters on this release. Don’t really understand why quite yet.
10. Killing The Dream - 'Fractures'
(re)acquaintance carrying over to the second track, Part II (Motel Art) grabs you and throws you against a wall. It instantly forces you to take interest in this band, and finish out the rest of the songs. Such an amazing band, and awesome guys. I was able to play with them twice this year, once in Denver, and again in Albuquerque, NM. Both shows were absolutely insane. Never had such a good time playing with the same band twice in two weeks.
11. M83 - 'Saturdays = Youth'
If only I could drive to Chicago to go see them later this month. Anthony Gonzalez is amazing. Best sounding synthesizers on the planet. Every melody, every sound fits together flawlessly.
12. Bleeding Through - 'Declaration'
Took awhile for this release to come out because of stupid Trustkill, but it was well worth the wait. This is the best Bleeding Through record. It’s heavier than anything they’ve done, and the amount of black metal influence present really solidifies it.
13. These Arms Are Snakes - 'Tail, Swallower & Dove'
Haven’t had quite as much time to spend with this record lately, otherwise it would have been bumped up in the list. But, such a solid record. TAAS are still a re-defining band with a unique sound that cannot be duplicated. Please go out and buy this. Very talented musicians.
14. Nas - 's/t'
Nasty Nas is back. Great record. A little too political in parts, but at least I can agree with all or most of his viewpoints. I will always love Nas, and Illmatic is still the greatest shit ever made. This year I got more into hip-hop than I’ve ever been. It’s refreshing. Queens Get The Money. Get dat.
15. Matt Pryor - 'Confidence Man'
The Get Up Kids lead singer shows his acoustic side, and I love it. Every song is beautiful and relaxing. His voice is one of a kind, as you can always tell when Mr. Pryor is singing. Do yourself a tremendous favor and listen to “I Wouldn’t Change A Thing.” Amazing tune. Hope this gets pressed on vinyl soon. I will snag it right up.
16. Cruel Hand - 'Prying Eyes'
Heavy as fuck. Love this band. This is definitely a great release, and I feel that it has brought a new sound to hardcore: a very refreshing, new sound that puts shitty bands like Trapped Under Ice to shame. Cruel Hand is fast, mean, and unpredictable. You assume a typical breakdown will follow an intense build up, however they will change it up and throw something heavier and faster at you. Might end up going to stupid H20 next week just to see these guys tear all of those other bands apart.
17. Tim Barry - 'Manchester'
The lead singer of Avail is back with another solo record. This time, much more musically advanced than ‘Rivanna Junction.’ You see many more instrumentations being utilized on this new shit. I come across much more percussion it seems like. Very catchy songs. His voice compliments the music perfectly. I can see people hating his vox, but I enjoy the slight monotony of it sometimes. I really regret not going to the Revival Tour this year, because I still have yet to see Tim perform.
18. Disfear - 'Live The Storm'
The defenders of the d-beat kill it yet again with ‘Live The Storm.’ Fuck, this band is so rad. Seeing Tomas perform with At The Gates earlier this year made me even more excited to see Disfear if and when they come through the states. This band influences me musically in almost every way. A lot of the newer songs I have been a part of while writing have had Disfear-like arrangements. Disfear’s sound is powerful, unique and it makes me want to circle pit til I pass out.
19. Transistor Transistor - 'Ruined Lives'
No one has heard of this band, and I’m not sure why. I fucking love these guys although they tour rarely, and if they do, they never come to CO. The only time they were in town, I was about 16 and they were playing a 21+ show at 15th St. Tavern. I was not happy. This band is rock and roll in every sense of the term. Dirty, grungy and loud. I love it.
20. Trash Talk - 's/t'
TT are a highly respected, yet hated band in hardcore due to their decision to drop Deathwish/Malfunction and press their own record, and release it on their own label. Me personally... I respect the shit out of that, although I am a huge DW fan. It took me a good month or so to get into this record. The production of Steve Albini took me a little of course, but I learned to love the live, raw aspect of this 's/t' effort. Trash Talk do it right, and they will continue to do it right: tour the shit out of the world, and release solid records. DIY. I just read an interview from Lee, and I quote, "I personally enjoy the feeling of being on the road. Tour almost feels like being aboard an asteroid hurtling towards earth with a whole lotta alcohol and weed thrown on board landing in every city that houses a club and a few kids." Badass.
Honorable Mention:
The Bronx - 'The Bronx III' & Trap Them - 'Seizures In Barren Praise' - Both records JUST hit stores, so I haven’t had a ton of time to fully digest these two releases, but I’ve heard them enough to a point where they are equally mindblowing. The Bronx is one of my favorite bands of all time, and this release is fucking great. So catchy and chorusy. Trap Them is as raw as ever with their new drummer, Mike Justian. So heavy and complex. Such great musicians.
Intronaut - 'Prehistoricisms' - Very intricate and beautiful. Think a heavier and more complex Isis. I want to get this on vinyl. The artwork is rad.
Victims - 'Killer' - Just got signed to DW earlier last month. Couldn’t be more happy for these three guys. D-beat all the way, motherfuckers.
Since the last time I wrote in June, I was able to tour the western United States with the old band I joined in April this year, BANKROBBER. It was easily the best time of my entire life, and I did it on my own terms. Had fun by myself in most instances. On August 25th, 2008 I had the most incredible day of my entire life. This is no exaggeration. I will remember this day for the rest of my life. We crossed the border into Vancouver, British Columbia, and prior to this, I had no birth certificate or social security card with me. My hopes for experiencing all Canada has to offer were looking not so great. I was able to spend the day with a buddy that lives up north named KC. He sings in a badass band called A Crow’s Glory, who we were supposed to do the tour with, but they had to unfortunately drop off. Anyways, the plan was to go with him separately through the border, instead of going with the bands in the van. It would look less sketchy and the chance of me being accepted through were much more likely. It all worked out, and I was granted access. The weight lifted off my shoulders that day was enormous to say the least. Not only would I have had to make BANKROBBER miss the chance to play a show in Canada, I would have had to hang out by myself in a small town called Blaine, Washington. There was NOTHING in that town. I would have wound up dead or raped, I’m sure. We walked around downtown Van, shopped at some sweet shoe and clothing boutiques. I went into one of the various Marijuana bars on the streets and looked around. It was incredible. Vancouver does have a pretty bad drug problem, however. And the homeless population there is immense. There are blue needle packages lining the streets from heroin users. Definitely a surreal site. Canada’s health care systems provide Vancouver drug users with safe, clean, in-clinic injections because it is much easier and less expensive to treat the patients and get them to kick the habit. Unbelievable. Later in the day we loaded in around six or so, after picking up Dan Don from Horizons/Daggermouth and a couple friends. All were cool dudes. The show went very well. After the show, I went to a bar and downed two brews without being I.D’d (legal drinking age is 19), went to Dan’s place and smoked more than anyone should in one given night, and crossed the border being very nervous, ha! This is way lame, but I’d never felt so alive in my entire life. I had absolutely no worries, no fears, no bullshit to deal with. I felt like I could do anything that day. It was truly an amazing feeling and I hope one day to encounter it again. I’m sure I could write more about the tour, but that was the day that was really worth talking about. I hope I can tour again next year. It’s still all I want to do with my life. The picture below is in downtown Vancouver. Good times!
I currently am holding two jobs at the moment, Target and Petsmart. It's almost as frustrating as getting punched in the face by a large, 250 lb. ego. At this state, I am more of a corporate bitch than any human being should subject themselves to. I make absolutely no money, and plans of college are in the works. I never thought it would come down to this, unfortunately. College is the last thing I want to do with my life right now. However, I put off college in order to play shows, tour, and act like an idiot. Look where that ended up. It became such an obssessed, ridiculous dream of mine that it just imploded and ended up having to take a hault for awhile. On that note, Viper : Viper has tentative plans to re-form early next year. The original lineup before the eventual break-up earlier this year included. It's going to be much less serious, with shows only every 2 months or so, and a couple out of state shows if possible only during school breaks. It was real nice having a break from being in a band for about the first three weeks, and then it started to get on my nerves. On the other hand, I have way more time to do other shit, which is pretty awesome. I think I'm getting ready to play hockey regularly again, and get in shape. My enthusiasm recently remains to be seen, but i'm hopeful for next year. Quitting hockey for so long was definitely a mistake. Playing NHL '09 all the time is motivation in itself to get on the ice and skate, as opposed to just using my thumbs a lot.
For the first time in my life, I've attained a pretty concrete sense of nationalism. I am finally proud to be a part of the United States after this recent election. Call me 'trendy', but millions and millions of other citizens have been severely impacted by it as well. There's a clear reason for the madness. President-elect Obama, in my opinion, ran a near flawless campaign that was obviously well-funded by its wealth of supporters. The campaign was also more focused, less-negative, and much more believable than McCain's camp. In addition, Obama was able to reach every demographic in the US. If you want to win an election, you better do everything in your power to reach out to the less fortunate citizens: the ones that need help the most. The fact that Obama picked a VP, Joe Biden, with experience and legitimacy seemed to help too. McCain, from the beginning, criticized Obama for his lack of experience. He then went out and chose a VP by the name of Governor Palin, who is even less experienced. That choice alone was his biggest mistake in the campaign. I was not able to take their campaign seriously, as many others felt as well. At the start of this race, I made a personal choice to see both sides with no distraction; not listen to my parents, not watch televised election coverage, etc. Closer and closer to the end, I decided early to register as a Democrat, watch more Keith Olbermann, and find out why FOX news ruins everything. I still cannot believe I was a part of this major historical moment in history. We will see how these next four years go. Hopeful indeed.
For the last three and a half months, I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with an incredible little lady named Karina. We met at work (Target), and started dating about a month and a half after I started. It has been completely perfect so far. We have never argued about anything, or anyone. Relationships only seem to work if you just shut the fuck up and keep it real. Just support one another in everything you do, be understanding of certain situations, and don’t over do it. If you hang out every single day, all day, you will probably run into some problems. If you are controlling and jealous, you will probably run into some problems. If you have extremely low self-esteem, and seem to like me more than yourself, it just will not work. If you hate the fact that I love Marijuana, then problems will arise. This girl is everything you want in a person. Every girl I’ve been with has had one or all of those problems, and you can always tell if a relationship is going to last or not. After about three weeks with previous girlfriends, I wanted out immediately. In this case, I want to stay around for as long as possible. I want to never make a mistake. I always want to be there for her in every way.
I like my new Fall/Winter ‘08 life. It may not consist of being a part of the stagnant and dismal hardcore scene anymore. It may not include comfortable job security. It may not impress friends or family, but it’s what it is right now. This year has just been a huge “fuck you” to a lot of people, and it’s for the best. The less people you know, the happier you become. Find people you love, and just stick with them. By the end of next year, I will have a new car, a new job, a place to call home, and Viper : Viper will be playing a couple of shows. I am more than excited. Stay tuned.
Now, I leave you with my top 20 records of 2008 list:
1. Sigur Rós - 'Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust'
In reality, this is an impossible three way tie between the first three records, however 'Með suð' takes the first place victory. Seeing this band a couple months ago up close at Red Rocks was a very moving experience. Everything this band does is new, interesting, and unmatched. Smoke a tiny bit, listen to track 9, called Fljótavík, and find yourself on a journey to a new land. I will be getting a SR tattoo later this year.
2. Russian Circles - 'Enter'
Along the same lines as Sigur Rós, this band is unmatched and genre-bending. I saw them perform twice this year, and was blown away equally both times. I am also stoked that Brian Cook is a full-time member now. He is someone I look up to and highly respect for his beliefs, and his other amazing projects, Botch and These Arms. Check this record out. It will blow your mind.
3. Drag The River - 'You Can't Live This Way'
Hey, thanks for breaking up, making me incredibly sad, then getting back together, releasing all of these previously un-released tracks that were recorded before the break up, and then making me smile again. Best band ever. Shit. Tobacco Fields.
4. Grave Maker - 'Bury Me At Sea'
Hands down, the best band in hardcore right now, and probably will be next year too. Had the pleasure of sharing the stage with this band twice this year, and they are not only the hardest working band on the planet, they are the most down to earth, nice dudes. This is one of the only bands that makes me want to mosh like a madman. Busted my nose up during a circle pit last time. Bad bad idea. I really want to see this out on vinyl. Maybe I’ll finance its release one day on my own.
5. Thrice - 'The Alchemy Index: Earth & Air - Vol. 3 & 4
Thrice will always be my number one favorite band. These last two volumes of the Alchemy Index are amazing. This band takes progression to a new level. I envy and respect them for everything they have created. Oh, and thanks for playing the Black Sheep this year. Best show of the year. Every time you come through and play the Fillmore with fucking shitty bands, I never go.
6. Devin The Dude - 'Landing Gear'
Where da shwishaz at? I love this dude. His songs not only keep it real as fuck, the musical aspects to his songs are incredible. Devin creates the most chill, mood enhancing beats and flows known to man. His songs are clever and hilarious. Sometimes, you can even relate to what he is saying. Best hip-hop ever. This record rules. More of an R&B feel to this record. Very very smooth and relaxing.
7. Ace Enders And A Million Different People - 'The Secret Wars'
I’m not sure if this was an actual official release, but damn it’s good! I love Ace from his work in the Early November, so it’s no surprise that I would check this out. He writes great pop anthems, hooks, lines, choruses, you name it.
8. Torche - 'Meanderthal'
Just recently got super into this record. I just saw them a couple weeks ago with Coliseum at the Larimer Lounge. One of the best shows I have ever seen. My ears were ringing afterwards for a few days due to the extreme amount of noise that both bands create. Full stacks, full stacks, full stacks. This record is absolutely great. They have created their own sound, and I respect that a lot. They sound so full, driving, catchy and perfect. Excited to see what else this band does in the future. Stoner pop!
9. Have Heart - 'Songs To Scream At The Sun'
Kurt Ballou did a fantastic job tracking this record at Godcity. It sounds raw, powerful, and the bass tones throughout the ten well-constructed songs blow me away. Lots of haters on this release. Don’t really understand why quite yet.
10. Killing The Dream - 'Fractures'
(re)acquaintance carrying over to the second track, Part II (Motel Art) grabs you and throws you against a wall. It instantly forces you to take interest in this band, and finish out the rest of the songs. Such an amazing band, and awesome guys. I was able to play with them twice this year, once in Denver, and again in Albuquerque, NM. Both shows were absolutely insane. Never had such a good time playing with the same band twice in two weeks.
11. M83 - 'Saturdays = Youth'
If only I could drive to Chicago to go see them later this month. Anthony Gonzalez is amazing. Best sounding synthesizers on the planet. Every melody, every sound fits together flawlessly.
12. Bleeding Through - 'Declaration'
Took awhile for this release to come out because of stupid Trustkill, but it was well worth the wait. This is the best Bleeding Through record. It’s heavier than anything they’ve done, and the amount of black metal influence present really solidifies it.
13. These Arms Are Snakes - 'Tail, Swallower & Dove'
Haven’t had quite as much time to spend with this record lately, otherwise it would have been bumped up in the list. But, such a solid record. TAAS are still a re-defining band with a unique sound that cannot be duplicated. Please go out and buy this. Very talented musicians.
14. Nas - 's/t'
Nasty Nas is back. Great record. A little too political in parts, but at least I can agree with all or most of his viewpoints. I will always love Nas, and Illmatic is still the greatest shit ever made. This year I got more into hip-hop than I’ve ever been. It’s refreshing. Queens Get The Money. Get dat.
15. Matt Pryor - 'Confidence Man'
The Get Up Kids lead singer shows his acoustic side, and I love it. Every song is beautiful and relaxing. His voice is one of a kind, as you can always tell when Mr. Pryor is singing. Do yourself a tremendous favor and listen to “I Wouldn’t Change A Thing.” Amazing tune. Hope this gets pressed on vinyl soon. I will snag it right up.
16. Cruel Hand - 'Prying Eyes'
Heavy as fuck. Love this band. This is definitely a great release, and I feel that it has brought a new sound to hardcore: a very refreshing, new sound that puts shitty bands like Trapped Under Ice to shame. Cruel Hand is fast, mean, and unpredictable. You assume a typical breakdown will follow an intense build up, however they will change it up and throw something heavier and faster at you. Might end up going to stupid H20 next week just to see these guys tear all of those other bands apart.
17. Tim Barry - 'Manchester'
The lead singer of Avail is back with another solo record. This time, much more musically advanced than ‘Rivanna Junction.’ You see many more instrumentations being utilized on this new shit. I come across much more percussion it seems like. Very catchy songs. His voice compliments the music perfectly. I can see people hating his vox, but I enjoy the slight monotony of it sometimes. I really regret not going to the Revival Tour this year, because I still have yet to see Tim perform.
18. Disfear - 'Live The Storm'
The defenders of the d-beat kill it yet again with ‘Live The Storm.’ Fuck, this band is so rad. Seeing Tomas perform with At The Gates earlier this year made me even more excited to see Disfear if and when they come through the states. This band influences me musically in almost every way. A lot of the newer songs I have been a part of while writing have had Disfear-like arrangements. Disfear’s sound is powerful, unique and it makes me want to circle pit til I pass out.
19. Transistor Transistor - 'Ruined Lives'
No one has heard of this band, and I’m not sure why. I fucking love these guys although they tour rarely, and if they do, they never come to CO. The only time they were in town, I was about 16 and they were playing a 21+ show at 15th St. Tavern. I was not happy. This band is rock and roll in every sense of the term. Dirty, grungy and loud. I love it.
20. Trash Talk - 's/t'
TT are a highly respected, yet hated band in hardcore due to their decision to drop Deathwish/Malfunction and press their own record, and release it on their own label. Me personally... I respect the shit out of that, although I am a huge DW fan. It took me a good month or so to get into this record. The production of Steve Albini took me a little of course, but I learned to love the live, raw aspect of this 's/t' effort. Trash Talk do it right, and they will continue to do it right: tour the shit out of the world, and release solid records. DIY. I just read an interview from Lee, and I quote, "I personally enjoy the feeling of being on the road. Tour almost feels like being aboard an asteroid hurtling towards earth with a whole lotta alcohol and weed thrown on board landing in every city that houses a club and a few kids." Badass.
Honorable Mention:
The Bronx - 'The Bronx III' & Trap Them - 'Seizures In Barren Praise' - Both records JUST hit stores, so I haven’t had a ton of time to fully digest these two releases, but I’ve heard them enough to a point where they are equally mindblowing. The Bronx is one of my favorite bands of all time, and this release is fucking great. So catchy and chorusy. Trap Them is as raw as ever with their new drummer, Mike Justian. So heavy and complex. Such great musicians.
Intronaut - 'Prehistoricisms' - Very intricate and beautiful. Think a heavier and more complex Isis. I want to get this on vinyl. The artwork is rad.
Victims - 'Killer' - Just got signed to DW earlier last month. Couldn’t be more happy for these three guys. D-beat all the way, motherfuckers.