Orders ought to start shipping before the end of the week.
If you're still dumb and haven't picked these records up go HERE
Monday, June 20, 2011
THEY'RE HEEERRREEEE......
* cue Poltergeist music.... no, wait... cue, AWESOMENESS! But yeah, the face-melting sounds here will conjure images from said creepy film. Feast your peepers at what rolled in today:
Orders ought to start shipping before the end of the week.
If you're still dumb and haven't picked these records up go HERE
Orders ought to start shipping before the end of the week.
If you're still dumb and haven't picked these records up go HERE
Friday, June 10, 2011
NEW RECORDS ALMOST READY!
So, take a look at what showed up today:
Just waiting on the actual vinyl to show up and then we will start sending out orders.
And if you didn't get them yet my only question to you is, 'what's your problem?'
BUY HERE
Just waiting on the actual vinyl to show up and then we will start sending out orders.
And if you didn't get them yet my only question to you is, 'what's your problem?'
BUY HERE
Monday, June 6, 2011
NEW REVIEWS!
So it has been awhile since you all saw of these huh?
Well, sorry if it took awhile, but I've had this little pre-order thing going on for a couple records I'm releasing. maybe you heard about it? Or saw about 500 facebook posts in regards to it? No matter, it's not a big deal (no, really, it is).
And then I got a bit sidetracked when I took off for Maine for a couple days and saw this band:
That's Mission Of Burma playing a pretty small place and they were great. I like them a lot. So yeah, now that that stuff is out of the way, here's some reviews for you.
DAMAGES, “Unrequited” 7”
When a band is described as ‘90’s Touch and Go style’ there is a good chance I will probably be into it. But to see that said band is releasing a record on the exceptionally posi youth crew React label I must admit that I’m a bit confused. No matter really. This group released a great initial 7”, “Scars”, basically on their own and has now followed it up with another two-song slab of wax continuing that same sound. And yes, it’s true that there is a degree of what many would identify as noise rock of the AmRep and Touch and Go variety. That basically equates to a really up front and thick bass sound with the guitars a bit more in the background playing some frantic and feedback-encrusted riffing, while hoarse and strained vocals carry over it all. Somehow, it all stays pretty catchy and rocks quite thoroughly. I think I liked the songs a bit more from “Scars”, but the quality and recording of this new 7” is a bit better. Heck, I’d say just get both and let this band do some damage of it’s own on your eardrums. See what I did there? (React)
“DIY ALBUM ART: PAPER BAGS AND OFFICE SUPPLIES”, by J. Namdev Hardisty
This really takes nerdy record collection shit to a whole new level for me. I’m not quite sure why I splurged on this book (it’s rather pricey for what it is, but then again, there is a level of handmade craftsmanship to this that a lot of work obviously went into constructing), but it’s cool to look at nonetheless. This book collects pictures of records made, mostly, in the early-to-mid nineties, by extremely crafty do-it-yourself’ers. There is some current stuff in there as well. These are the records that came packaged in silkscreened manilla envelopes, sewn patchwork sleeves, rubber stamped center labels, saddle-stitched insert booklets, and so forth. Many may not know this, but these DIY experiments in handcrafted packaging were commonplace in the 90’s and made for some very interesting records that also happened to deliver in terms of quality of band as well. Photos accompany explanations of everything from the initial Crudos releases to the Indian Summer chipboard covers, up to the screened plastic sleeves on Breather Resist’s “Full Of Tongues” 7”, and basically every weird record that Bloodlink (Chokehold, Impetus Inter, Frail, Groundwork) and Gravity (Angelhair, UOA, Unwound, Huggy Bear) ever released. Not only is it cool to see what people could do with their art, but also provides a link to some incredible music being made by some very creative and crafty people then and now. Some of these records showcased were certainly inspirations for some of the records I’ve put out over the years in terms of packaging. (Mark Batty Publisher)
LIEUTENANT, s/t LP
I should be able to write this review as quickly as this 13 song LP flies by. At barely 8 minutes per side this project band out of Buffalo, NY steamrolls through minute-long ragers of vitriolic hardcore. All these dues play in a multitude of bands around the Buffalo area, so it’s pointless to say who’s in what, especially since this was recorded some time ago and I think they may have only played a few songs. So this is basically a limited run posthumous release in a way. They did go all out though with a cool hand-painted chipboard package that has a neat silkscreen design over it. While the B-side (as well as the A-side’s “Instrumental” closer) offer a bit more in the way of hooks and melody coupled with the chaos to help this group stand out a bit more it’s the vocals that supply distinction... mostly because you’ll either love or hate them. Part Youth Of Today growls, part crow-cawing scream it’s a mixed bag. I’m not sure if I care for it, but they certainly do fit the wild nature of these short and fast songs. (Art Of the Underground/ Peterwalkee Records/ Warm Bath)
NOT SORRY, “Our Choices” 7”
The second seven inch from the Northwest Wyld Punx contingent. I’m not going to lie- there isn’t a whole lot that separates Not Sorry from tons of other youth crew/’88-inspired bands, and I am not the man to point out the subtle nuances between this band and others similar in sound of this style of hardcore. Still, I do enjoy what Not Sorry do, and they do it well. They play really fast and they actually have something relevant to say in their lyrics. Placing a strong emphasis on consumerism/over-consumption and it’s effects on the world and those living upon it this is a message I can applaud. With a style that can sometimes feel incredibly watered down it’s good to know bands like Not Sorry have something worthwhile to contribute... even if they do print ‘BUST!’ in their lyric sheet! Review bust! (React)
PRAYERS FOR ATHEISTS, “New Hymns For An Old War”
Here is a band that tours a lot, regularly plays to minimal crowds, survives (somehow) off of nothing, creates music that is not exactly the most popular thing going these days, and sings songs of political protest that often times is yelled at the most blank and apathetic text-messaging-while-standing-in-the-front-row entitled brats. And yet I have never seen a band with more positivity and genuine belief in what they do and what they stand for. It’s straight up awesome and inspirational. And it’s a good thing these songs on their full length are pretty damn good too because it makes me all the more psyched to write about it. For those not in the know, PFA started with national slam poet champ Jared Paul coming up with raspy and gravely verses expounding on social justice causes, environmentalism, and more set to the tune of rock music that mixed three-chord punk and some of the more rhythmic ideas of Rage Against the Machine and released on indie hip-hop label Strange Famous (Sage Francis, etc). Yes, most would call it rap rock, and that term is blasphemy to many. But the execution of the vocal delivery was so well-written, and the music incredibly catchy that any silly genre title just didn’t quite measure up. So that was the first EP. Now the band has self-released a full length, and has shifted gears (mostly) to really catchy anthemic punk songs. The lyrical prose is still just as strong as ever, but the band seems to have found it’s niche, whether it’s in the amazing face-ripping barn burner anthem “Guns Up”, or the could-have-been-a-Minor Threat B-side “Bouncers and Cops”, to the slower and more melodic “May 1st, 1886” there is a bit of variety on the record. Most of these songs have a very fun vibe, like “Keep Left” or the hometown rally cry of “Hope City Sky”, which I think is great. If you’re going to make serious music about serious subjects at least broach it with a sense of positivity and in such a way that is fresh. PFA have done an awesome job of both and this is why this is going to be one of my favorite things to listen to all year. (Prayers For Atheists)
REJOUISSANCE, "Scrudding Wounds" EP
Rather than going the physical release route Syracuse/Brooklyn group Rejouissance decided to showcase their three latest songs via digital-only “format”. It’s a good testing ground as they have re-tooled their style once again and this is the first batch of stuff they came up with in this formation. But it does make me wish I weren’t listening to this on a computer, and instead full blast on a turntable because these are some solid jams. Having started as a mostly acoustic project, they added a couple members and upp’ed the rock. Now they have added a third guitarist to the lineup and moved further into a heavy rock vibe. Yet the additional personnel hasn’t transformed the band into some steamroller of heavy metal destruction. They retain their gravely grizzled rock sound, noodley intricate melodies, and a bit of post-hardcore stop-start rhythms. It’s just laid on more thick now. And I like that. The strongest track of the bunch is “Stutterer”, a colossus of stop-start chugs interspersed with a serpentine melody winding through it. here’s hoping this lineup produces some more songs of this quality. (Rejouissance)
TIME UNDER EARTH demo
As simple as it may be to lump any instrumental band that plays rather long songs and has an affinity for metal into the NeurIsis glut of bands (that has seemingly dropped off- thankfully- since Isis called it a day). but the debut from Syracuse’s Time Under Earth is not so easy to classify into those simple parameters. They do share similar qualities- heavy and well thought-out long songs, various samples and limited- yet tasteful- use of synths. But they definitely have their own thing going on. Maybe it’s in the way this was recorded, which aims more for an analog kind of warmth, and not some over-processed musical clubbing to the skull. Also, various subgenres creep in and out, almost unnoticed, as they weave themselves into the songs. I like that they are a heavy band, but make it all sound even and not over-the-top in any way. Metalheads can enjoy, middle-of-the-road rock fans can rejoice, prog fans can take notes and analyze. Of the three songs, though, I like the third one best because, well, it is the heaviest of them all. (Time Under Earth)
YOUNG WIDOWS, “In and Out Of Youth and Lightness”
A lot of people appreciate their favorite bands growing with each release, but not too much because then they change too much. The resulting feelings of confusion and abandonment are common. Young Widows are one of those bands that never takes baby steps with their development from release to release, they grow by leaps and bounds. And somehow I’m definitely OK with that. It hasn’t always resulted in brilliance. I think between the end of Breather Resist and “Settle Down City” they were still figuring things out. Then “Old Wounds” came out and blew me the fuck away and solidified Young Widows as their own band- an unstoppable juggernaut of hefty rhythm and smart, angular guitar work. And now we have “In and Out...”, which once again shows the band taking a big leap into new territory. I’ll admit, it’s taken some time to grow on me. It’s overall a very slow, dark, and (at times) rather minimalist record. But between the jangly, effects-heavy guitar work of Evan Patterson, his dry crooning drawl, bassist Nick Thineman’s two-ton bass (quite possibly the best tone in underground rock), and drummer Jeremy McMonigle’s deft understanding of making the simple sound complex you know it is still Young Widows. This time around they put a lot of focus on a simple riff and building a whole song around it. Call it the Lungfish school of riffing, but YW have their sights on something a bit different- building vocal melodies, or the entire mood of a song around a simple beat and beat the shit out of it. “Lean On the Ghost” and “In and Out Of Lightness” pull this off wonderfully, while single “Future Heart” is the sole really upbeat track more or less. I will say I enjoy the meaty pounding of their last LP more, but “In and Out..” hits me pretty good in a different way. Give it some time, it will grow on you too. (Temporary Residence)
Well, sorry if it took awhile, but I've had this little pre-order thing going on for a couple records I'm releasing. maybe you heard about it? Or saw about 500 facebook posts in regards to it? No matter, it's not a big deal (no, really, it is).
And then I got a bit sidetracked when I took off for Maine for a couple days and saw this band:
That's Mission Of Burma playing a pretty small place and they were great. I like them a lot. So yeah, now that that stuff is out of the way, here's some reviews for you.
DAMAGES, “Unrequited” 7”
When a band is described as ‘90’s Touch and Go style’ there is a good chance I will probably be into it. But to see that said band is releasing a record on the exceptionally posi youth crew React label I must admit that I’m a bit confused. No matter really. This group released a great initial 7”, “Scars”, basically on their own and has now followed it up with another two-song slab of wax continuing that same sound. And yes, it’s true that there is a degree of what many would identify as noise rock of the AmRep and Touch and Go variety. That basically equates to a really up front and thick bass sound with the guitars a bit more in the background playing some frantic and feedback-encrusted riffing, while hoarse and strained vocals carry over it all. Somehow, it all stays pretty catchy and rocks quite thoroughly. I think I liked the songs a bit more from “Scars”, but the quality and recording of this new 7” is a bit better. Heck, I’d say just get both and let this band do some damage of it’s own on your eardrums. See what I did there? (React)
“DIY ALBUM ART: PAPER BAGS AND OFFICE SUPPLIES”, by J. Namdev Hardisty
This really takes nerdy record collection shit to a whole new level for me. I’m not quite sure why I splurged on this book (it’s rather pricey for what it is, but then again, there is a level of handmade craftsmanship to this that a lot of work obviously went into constructing), but it’s cool to look at nonetheless. This book collects pictures of records made, mostly, in the early-to-mid nineties, by extremely crafty do-it-yourself’ers. There is some current stuff in there as well. These are the records that came packaged in silkscreened manilla envelopes, sewn patchwork sleeves, rubber stamped center labels, saddle-stitched insert booklets, and so forth. Many may not know this, but these DIY experiments in handcrafted packaging were commonplace in the 90’s and made for some very interesting records that also happened to deliver in terms of quality of band as well. Photos accompany explanations of everything from the initial Crudos releases to the Indian Summer chipboard covers, up to the screened plastic sleeves on Breather Resist’s “Full Of Tongues” 7”, and basically every weird record that Bloodlink (Chokehold, Impetus Inter, Frail, Groundwork) and Gravity (Angelhair, UOA, Unwound, Huggy Bear) ever released. Not only is it cool to see what people could do with their art, but also provides a link to some incredible music being made by some very creative and crafty people then and now. Some of these records showcased were certainly inspirations for some of the records I’ve put out over the years in terms of packaging. (Mark Batty Publisher)
LIEUTENANT, s/t LP
I should be able to write this review as quickly as this 13 song LP flies by. At barely 8 minutes per side this project band out of Buffalo, NY steamrolls through minute-long ragers of vitriolic hardcore. All these dues play in a multitude of bands around the Buffalo area, so it’s pointless to say who’s in what, especially since this was recorded some time ago and I think they may have only played a few songs. So this is basically a limited run posthumous release in a way. They did go all out though with a cool hand-painted chipboard package that has a neat silkscreen design over it. While the B-side (as well as the A-side’s “Instrumental” closer) offer a bit more in the way of hooks and melody coupled with the chaos to help this group stand out a bit more it’s the vocals that supply distinction... mostly because you’ll either love or hate them. Part Youth Of Today growls, part crow-cawing scream it’s a mixed bag. I’m not sure if I care for it, but they certainly do fit the wild nature of these short and fast songs. (Art Of the Underground/ Peterwalkee Records/ Warm Bath)
NOT SORRY, “Our Choices” 7”
The second seven inch from the Northwest Wyld Punx contingent. I’m not going to lie- there isn’t a whole lot that separates Not Sorry from tons of other youth crew/’88-inspired bands, and I am not the man to point out the subtle nuances between this band and others similar in sound of this style of hardcore. Still, I do enjoy what Not Sorry do, and they do it well. They play really fast and they actually have something relevant to say in their lyrics. Placing a strong emphasis on consumerism/over-consumption and it’s effects on the world and those living upon it this is a message I can applaud. With a style that can sometimes feel incredibly watered down it’s good to know bands like Not Sorry have something worthwhile to contribute... even if they do print ‘BUST!’ in their lyric sheet! Review bust! (React)
PRAYERS FOR ATHEISTS, “New Hymns For An Old War”
Here is a band that tours a lot, regularly plays to minimal crowds, survives (somehow) off of nothing, creates music that is not exactly the most popular thing going these days, and sings songs of political protest that often times is yelled at the most blank and apathetic text-messaging-while-standing-in-the-front-row entitled brats. And yet I have never seen a band with more positivity and genuine belief in what they do and what they stand for. It’s straight up awesome and inspirational. And it’s a good thing these songs on their full length are pretty damn good too because it makes me all the more psyched to write about it. For those not in the know, PFA started with national slam poet champ Jared Paul coming up with raspy and gravely verses expounding on social justice causes, environmentalism, and more set to the tune of rock music that mixed three-chord punk and some of the more rhythmic ideas of Rage Against the Machine and released on indie hip-hop label Strange Famous (Sage Francis, etc). Yes, most would call it rap rock, and that term is blasphemy to many. But the execution of the vocal delivery was so well-written, and the music incredibly catchy that any silly genre title just didn’t quite measure up. So that was the first EP. Now the band has self-released a full length, and has shifted gears (mostly) to really catchy anthemic punk songs. The lyrical prose is still just as strong as ever, but the band seems to have found it’s niche, whether it’s in the amazing face-ripping barn burner anthem “Guns Up”, or the could-have-been-a-Minor Threat B-side “Bouncers and Cops”, to the slower and more melodic “May 1st, 1886” there is a bit of variety on the record. Most of these songs have a very fun vibe, like “Keep Left” or the hometown rally cry of “Hope City Sky”, which I think is great. If you’re going to make serious music about serious subjects at least broach it with a sense of positivity and in such a way that is fresh. PFA have done an awesome job of both and this is why this is going to be one of my favorite things to listen to all year. (Prayers For Atheists)
REJOUISSANCE, "Scrudding Wounds" EP
Rather than going the physical release route Syracuse/Brooklyn group Rejouissance decided to showcase their three latest songs via digital-only “format”. It’s a good testing ground as they have re-tooled their style once again and this is the first batch of stuff they came up with in this formation. But it does make me wish I weren’t listening to this on a computer, and instead full blast on a turntable because these are some solid jams. Having started as a mostly acoustic project, they added a couple members and upp’ed the rock. Now they have added a third guitarist to the lineup and moved further into a heavy rock vibe. Yet the additional personnel hasn’t transformed the band into some steamroller of heavy metal destruction. They retain their gravely grizzled rock sound, noodley intricate melodies, and a bit of post-hardcore stop-start rhythms. It’s just laid on more thick now. And I like that. The strongest track of the bunch is “Stutterer”, a colossus of stop-start chugs interspersed with a serpentine melody winding through it. here’s hoping this lineup produces some more songs of this quality. (Rejouissance)
TIME UNDER EARTH demo
As simple as it may be to lump any instrumental band that plays rather long songs and has an affinity for metal into the NeurIsis glut of bands (that has seemingly dropped off- thankfully- since Isis called it a day). but the debut from Syracuse’s Time Under Earth is not so easy to classify into those simple parameters. They do share similar qualities- heavy and well thought-out long songs, various samples and limited- yet tasteful- use of synths. But they definitely have their own thing going on. Maybe it’s in the way this was recorded, which aims more for an analog kind of warmth, and not some over-processed musical clubbing to the skull. Also, various subgenres creep in and out, almost unnoticed, as they weave themselves into the songs. I like that they are a heavy band, but make it all sound even and not over-the-top in any way. Metalheads can enjoy, middle-of-the-road rock fans can rejoice, prog fans can take notes and analyze. Of the three songs, though, I like the third one best because, well, it is the heaviest of them all. (Time Under Earth)
YOUNG WIDOWS, “In and Out Of Youth and Lightness”
A lot of people appreciate their favorite bands growing with each release, but not too much because then they change too much. The resulting feelings of confusion and abandonment are common. Young Widows are one of those bands that never takes baby steps with their development from release to release, they grow by leaps and bounds. And somehow I’m definitely OK with that. It hasn’t always resulted in brilliance. I think between the end of Breather Resist and “Settle Down City” they were still figuring things out. Then “Old Wounds” came out and blew me the fuck away and solidified Young Widows as their own band- an unstoppable juggernaut of hefty rhythm and smart, angular guitar work. And now we have “In and Out...”, which once again shows the band taking a big leap into new territory. I’ll admit, it’s taken some time to grow on me. It’s overall a very slow, dark, and (at times) rather minimalist record. But between the jangly, effects-heavy guitar work of Evan Patterson, his dry crooning drawl, bassist Nick Thineman’s two-ton bass (quite possibly the best tone in underground rock), and drummer Jeremy McMonigle’s deft understanding of making the simple sound complex you know it is still Young Widows. This time around they put a lot of focus on a simple riff and building a whole song around it. Call it the Lungfish school of riffing, but YW have their sights on something a bit different- building vocal melodies, or the entire mood of a song around a simple beat and beat the shit out of it. “Lean On the Ghost” and “In and Out Of Lightness” pull this off wonderfully, while single “Future Heart” is the sole really upbeat track more or less. I will say I enjoy the meaty pounding of their last LP more, but “In and Out..” hits me pretty good in a different way. Give it some time, it will grow on you too. (Temporary Residence)
Sunday, May 22, 2011
OAK & BONE/ LIKE WOLVES LP PRE-ORDERS UP!
Pre-orders are now up for both the LIKE WOLVES and OAK & BONE records.
http://www.hexrecords.bigcartel.com
There's also a bunch of new and old stuff added to the webstore to check out.
Additionally, there are a number of pre-order package deals I have going on with extra records for a cheap price, the BIG DAY IN (Ithaca) DVD, and more!
The debut LP from Syracuse crust/stoner metal warlords. Fans of Kyuss, KARP, and Eyehategod take note. These jams will wreck yr skull.
Debut LP from Rochester punk killers. Fast jams, nods to both the Louisville scene and Jehu/Hot Snakes riff mastery.
* Both records come with download coupons for those challenged by archaic music technology. The future is then.
And check this deal out too:
Get both LPs, as well as a 3rd LP from any other 12" Hex has released/co-released (The Helm, No Idols, Achilles, Ed Gein, Prize Country). Gotta clear some space on the shelves, so get something extra for cheap.
And if you still haven't hear new songs from both bands check here:
http://www.likewolves.bandcamp.com
http://soundcloud.com/oakandbone/poison-snow
http://www.hexrecords.bigcartel.com
http://www.hexrecords.bigcartel.com
There's also a bunch of new and old stuff added to the webstore to check out.
Additionally, there are a number of pre-order package deals I have going on with extra records for a cheap price, the BIG DAY IN (Ithaca) DVD, and more!
The debut LP from Syracuse crust/stoner metal warlords. Fans of Kyuss, KARP, and Eyehategod take note. These jams will wreck yr skull.
Debut LP from Rochester punk killers. Fast jams, nods to both the Louisville scene and Jehu/Hot Snakes riff mastery.
* Both records come with download coupons for those challenged by archaic music technology. The future is then.
And check this deal out too:
Get both LPs, as well as a 3rd LP from any other 12" Hex has released/co-released (The Helm, No Idols, Achilles, Ed Gein, Prize Country). Gotta clear some space on the shelves, so get something extra for cheap.
And if you still haven't hear new songs from both bands check here:
http://www.likewolves.bandcamp.com
http://soundcloud.com/oakandbone/poison-snow
http://www.hexrecords.bigcartel.com
Sunday, May 1, 2011
OAK & BONE- NEW SONG AND RECORD COVER
OK, so it's about damn time, right?
Above you will see the cover artwork for the new OAK & BONE full length LP. Looks nice, doesn't it? Looks weird, huh? Yeah.
The official release date for this (and the LIKE WOLVES LP)is July 12th, but providing all goes smoothly I ought to have them ready to sell by mid-June.
I'll be setting up a pre-order as soon as the test presses come in and are approved.
In the meantime, prepare your neck for maximum bangover with this new track, "Poison Snow":
CHECK THE NEW TRACK HERE
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
THE HITCHED: GRIM HONEYMOON
That headline is courtesy of Jeffry Poso, The Helm drummer and smooth dude extraordinaire. So as you can see from the photo, my man Bob Swift (he's the one on the right) got married. He's the tall glass of water that shouts for that band The Helm that three of you are familiar with and whose records I put out.
It seems lately that I'm putting up more posts of people whom I've released records for getting hitched than actual announcements about records I'm releasing. And I'm OK with that. This label has always been about helping my friends out and doing cool things with/for them, and weddings are also cool things (especially when they last!) so it's fitting that I post about it I think.
So with that I just wanted to give a hearty congratulations and was stoked to be a part of the shindig, and also spend some quality time in the Northwest!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Yo! So I'm super busy with a million things and I wanted to try and get them into a concise little paragraph for you all while I have the time.
OK, first and foremost- I'll be gone all next week in the great town of Seattle. Why? Because the one and only Bob Swift (from The Helm) is getting married, by gum. Congrats to him! Yours truly is in the wedding party so it will no doubt be limos and many vegan cheese platters, right? So that means no updates for a bit.
Second- the OAK & BONE lp is done. yup, mastering went down last night and it's ready to be sent to press. Expect a new jam to be posted online once I return. I don't think the internet can handle the heaviness.
Third- LIKE WOLVES lp will also be going to press right about now as well. Sit tight.
So that means, finally, pre-orders and stuff will be happening soon. I'm thinking of some wacky package deals for this one, so keep checking back. I'll probably get pre-orders going around mid-May.
The official release dates for both records are July 12th, but mailorder will more than likely go out a few weeks ahead of that.
So that's that.
To stave you off til then, here's a bunch of reviews of records and stuff I've checked as of late.
BRIDGE UNDER FIRE, “The Night Court Sessions” ep
Local dudes make good with this new band that sprang up out of nowhere. I have to say, it really has a strong Hot Water Music vibe to it. I mean really a very similar vibe. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that, they do it well. Ya know the drill- gruff and melodic punk, but leaning more on an overall ‘rock’ vibe more than anything, and plenty of goofy song titles to go around (take, for example, “Midnight In the Olive Garden Of Good and Evil”). It’s melodic, fun, hits hard, and in the right spot. I can get down with that. (Bridge Under Fire)
JESUIT, discography
This came out awesome. Jesuit were easily one of the meanest bands around on stage- constantly belittling their audience with between-song shit talk, punishing their ears with horrid squalls of noise, not giving a rat’s ass if people liked them or not, and let’s not forget doing something musically that wasn’t too common at the time. I certainly was a fan and got to see them on many occasions. But I will definitely admit that they made me quite uncomfortable on a few occasions, what with all the berating and all. I eventually came to find they were awesome dudes when not on stage, which doesn’t really matter since we’re talking about the band here. So yeah, while not prolific (this discography has the two seven inches, a couple comp tracks, a Black Sabbath cover, and a few demo songs) Jesuit dealt a threatening whallop to late 90’s hardcore that was equal parts Eyehategod feedback-noise-sludge worship, bad ass blunt force hammering, and a dash of powerviolence. Their original recordings didn’t always get the justice they dealt out live, so Kurt Ballou came in to remaster this stuff and it sounds great. A kick ass package with all new artwork and a ton of stories and photos about the band round it out. Seriously, get this. Your ears will cry for help but your reptile brain will thank you. (Magic Bullet)
LALLY, JOE, “Why Should I Get Used To It?”
Admittedly, this is the first time I’ve heard Joe Lally’s solo material. This is already his third record. The dude stays productive, that’s for sure. As the bassist for Fugazi Joe laid down some of the best bass lines in all of punk music. He never got too showy, he always played what the song called for, but he was so present in all of their music as the component that got butts moving. I totally dig his style. So as a solo musician it appears he is writing most everything, but does have a couple people backing him to make it a full band. Musically, he does keep it fairly simple, even though these feel like full songs. There is a weird, sort of eerie vibe going on through many of these tracks, but I can’t quite explain how. I’m reminded of another rather short-lived Dischord band from not too long ago when listening to this called Antelope simply because both bands do a great deal with simplicity in the songs and make them sound quite full. There is also this sort of post-punk, new wave kind of thing happening here and there akin to fellow DC group Trans Am, minus synth. It’s hard to describe what’s going here, which is good because it means it’s original. Nevertheless, I like it and you ought to give it a shot as well. (Dischord)
THE MEN, “Think” b/w “Gates Of Steel” 7”
I really don’t get this new trend of bands purposefully recording themselves to sound like absolute shit. You know how easy and cheap it is to record these days and sound at least halfway decent? The days of setting up a boombox in a practice room, pressing record, and hoping for the best really are over. And there’s this crop of bands springing up that seem to completely miss the boat on this. And they’re mostly good bands too! The Men, for example, are doing some cool things. Imagine My Bloody Valentine as a raging punk band. That’s kind of what’s happening here. I can only imagine live them blowing my goddamn ears out. This short 7” focuses more on the raging style and not so much the huge walls of noise they have displayed on other records. Oh, and they cover one of my favorite Devo songs ever too. But yeah, the whole affair sounds like it was recorded at a basement show or something... gotta work on that. (Karmic Swamp Records)
MIXTAPES, “A Short Collection Of Short Songs” 7”
Fuck, this band is just too happy. Seriously, I’m all for good moods. But punk (no matter how shallow this group flecks at the surface at that term) should have some degree of grit to them. This has absolutely no grit. It’s just happy pop music, happy girl vocals, happy little piano parts, and taking up a happy little corner at Gainesville Fest for people who just want to sit in the sun... ok, that doesn’t sound half bad. but it’s really just not for me at all. (Animal Style Records)
MONSTERS, by Ken Dahl
So I was in NYC for a show and it turns out the MOCCA festival was also happening. I’d been trying to hit this thing up for a few years now and miss it every year. But I dropped my plan of going to a museum and hit this up instead. What is it? Well, just basically the East Coast version of San Diego Comic Con, but for strictly indie comics only... which is, essentially, all I read these days. While there I noticed the newest book from Ken Dahl, and the man himself selling it. I was a big fan of his previous collection, which Microcosm released, and this new book is one big story, instead of many random ones. Ken not only has a quirky illustration style, but a great sense of humor and storytelling. I can only describe it as being grim depression that somehow is very hilarious as well. he typically mixes the ultra-personal and embarrassing to the point that it becomes quite funny. So this book deals with a long spell in which he thought he had herpes- all the terrible social encounters that came with it, the stigma of having it, and the resulting sad state of a personal life that left the dude pretty desperate for some time. Yeah, sounds strange and bleak... which it is. but it really comes off as a great and funny story. I thoroughly dig this and the dudes work. Check it out for shits and giggles (Secret Acres)
OBITS, “Moody, Standard, and Poor”
I’ve been waiting for this one basically since their first full length came out. I was so impressed with what these Brooklyn cats were doing, being a long time fan of basically anything Rick Froberg dips his creative pen into. “I Blame You”, the first LP, was an excellent collection of tunes. This new one... well... basically keeps things moving. I wouldn’t really say there is any serious development, just more Obits songs. That may sound bad, but when you already write great songs how can you really improve on them? This continues in the garage-y, but refined style they’re known for, along with Rick’s very distinctive voice and guitar work which falls somewhere between the loose punk-leaning style of his previous outfit Hot Snakes, and something classic rock sounding... like CCR. And I dig the shit out of that. Some of the standout here include the catchy melody of “No Fly List”, the quick urgency of “Killer”, and the hook in “I Want Results”. Once again, Froberg handles all art duties with a beautiful cover, but the interior is lacking a bit, it’s super simple design makes me wish for another bizarre pen and ink illustration he is well known for. (Sub Pop)
TIN HORN PRAYER, “Get Busy Dying”
Plan-It-X rejects? Ghost Mice-This Bike Is a Pipe Cleaner-Bat Shit- trainhopper punx? I have no idea. It’s somewhere along that blurred line of hippie crust panhandler and legitimate Americana type campfire songs. I can’t say it’s really my thing at all, but dudes with banjo, mandolin, harmonica, and your other regular rock band set up get down with some rock n’ twang. I’m thinking a bit of Scouts Honor, a a dash of Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band, and the aforementioned Plan-It-X stuff by gruff fellows drinking whiskey by a fire. Not too bad of a debut, but not my cup of tea. (Bermuda Mohawk Productions)
OK, first and foremost- I'll be gone all next week in the great town of Seattle. Why? Because the one and only Bob Swift (from The Helm) is getting married, by gum. Congrats to him! Yours truly is in the wedding party so it will no doubt be limos and many vegan cheese platters, right? So that means no updates for a bit.
Second- the OAK & BONE lp is done. yup, mastering went down last night and it's ready to be sent to press. Expect a new jam to be posted online once I return. I don't think the internet can handle the heaviness.
Third- LIKE WOLVES lp will also be going to press right about now as well. Sit tight.
So that means, finally, pre-orders and stuff will be happening soon. I'm thinking of some wacky package deals for this one, so keep checking back. I'll probably get pre-orders going around mid-May.
The official release dates for both records are July 12th, but mailorder will more than likely go out a few weeks ahead of that.
So that's that.
To stave you off til then, here's a bunch of reviews of records and stuff I've checked as of late.
BRIDGE UNDER FIRE, “The Night Court Sessions” ep
Local dudes make good with this new band that sprang up out of nowhere. I have to say, it really has a strong Hot Water Music vibe to it. I mean really a very similar vibe. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that, they do it well. Ya know the drill- gruff and melodic punk, but leaning more on an overall ‘rock’ vibe more than anything, and plenty of goofy song titles to go around (take, for example, “Midnight In the Olive Garden Of Good and Evil”). It’s melodic, fun, hits hard, and in the right spot. I can get down with that. (Bridge Under Fire)
JESUIT, discography
This came out awesome. Jesuit were easily one of the meanest bands around on stage- constantly belittling their audience with between-song shit talk, punishing their ears with horrid squalls of noise, not giving a rat’s ass if people liked them or not, and let’s not forget doing something musically that wasn’t too common at the time. I certainly was a fan and got to see them on many occasions. But I will definitely admit that they made me quite uncomfortable on a few occasions, what with all the berating and all. I eventually came to find they were awesome dudes when not on stage, which doesn’t really matter since we’re talking about the band here. So yeah, while not prolific (this discography has the two seven inches, a couple comp tracks, a Black Sabbath cover, and a few demo songs) Jesuit dealt a threatening whallop to late 90’s hardcore that was equal parts Eyehategod feedback-noise-sludge worship, bad ass blunt force hammering, and a dash of powerviolence. Their original recordings didn’t always get the justice they dealt out live, so Kurt Ballou came in to remaster this stuff and it sounds great. A kick ass package with all new artwork and a ton of stories and photos about the band round it out. Seriously, get this. Your ears will cry for help but your reptile brain will thank you. (Magic Bullet)
LALLY, JOE, “Why Should I Get Used To It?”
Admittedly, this is the first time I’ve heard Joe Lally’s solo material. This is already his third record. The dude stays productive, that’s for sure. As the bassist for Fugazi Joe laid down some of the best bass lines in all of punk music. He never got too showy, he always played what the song called for, but he was so present in all of their music as the component that got butts moving. I totally dig his style. So as a solo musician it appears he is writing most everything, but does have a couple people backing him to make it a full band. Musically, he does keep it fairly simple, even though these feel like full songs. There is a weird, sort of eerie vibe going on through many of these tracks, but I can’t quite explain how. I’m reminded of another rather short-lived Dischord band from not too long ago when listening to this called Antelope simply because both bands do a great deal with simplicity in the songs and make them sound quite full. There is also this sort of post-punk, new wave kind of thing happening here and there akin to fellow DC group Trans Am, minus synth. It’s hard to describe what’s going here, which is good because it means it’s original. Nevertheless, I like it and you ought to give it a shot as well. (Dischord)
THE MEN, “Think” b/w “Gates Of Steel” 7”
I really don’t get this new trend of bands purposefully recording themselves to sound like absolute shit. You know how easy and cheap it is to record these days and sound at least halfway decent? The days of setting up a boombox in a practice room, pressing record, and hoping for the best really are over. And there’s this crop of bands springing up that seem to completely miss the boat on this. And they’re mostly good bands too! The Men, for example, are doing some cool things. Imagine My Bloody Valentine as a raging punk band. That’s kind of what’s happening here. I can only imagine live them blowing my goddamn ears out. This short 7” focuses more on the raging style and not so much the huge walls of noise they have displayed on other records. Oh, and they cover one of my favorite Devo songs ever too. But yeah, the whole affair sounds like it was recorded at a basement show or something... gotta work on that. (Karmic Swamp Records)
MIXTAPES, “A Short Collection Of Short Songs” 7”
Fuck, this band is just too happy. Seriously, I’m all for good moods. But punk (no matter how shallow this group flecks at the surface at that term) should have some degree of grit to them. This has absolutely no grit. It’s just happy pop music, happy girl vocals, happy little piano parts, and taking up a happy little corner at Gainesville Fest for people who just want to sit in the sun... ok, that doesn’t sound half bad. but it’s really just not for me at all. (Animal Style Records)
MONSTERS, by Ken Dahl
So I was in NYC for a show and it turns out the MOCCA festival was also happening. I’d been trying to hit this thing up for a few years now and miss it every year. But I dropped my plan of going to a museum and hit this up instead. What is it? Well, just basically the East Coast version of San Diego Comic Con, but for strictly indie comics only... which is, essentially, all I read these days. While there I noticed the newest book from Ken Dahl, and the man himself selling it. I was a big fan of his previous collection, which Microcosm released, and this new book is one big story, instead of many random ones. Ken not only has a quirky illustration style, but a great sense of humor and storytelling. I can only describe it as being grim depression that somehow is very hilarious as well. he typically mixes the ultra-personal and embarrassing to the point that it becomes quite funny. So this book deals with a long spell in which he thought he had herpes- all the terrible social encounters that came with it, the stigma of having it, and the resulting sad state of a personal life that left the dude pretty desperate for some time. Yeah, sounds strange and bleak... which it is. but it really comes off as a great and funny story. I thoroughly dig this and the dudes work. Check it out for shits and giggles (Secret Acres)
OBITS, “Moody, Standard, and Poor”
I’ve been waiting for this one basically since their first full length came out. I was so impressed with what these Brooklyn cats were doing, being a long time fan of basically anything Rick Froberg dips his creative pen into. “I Blame You”, the first LP, was an excellent collection of tunes. This new one... well... basically keeps things moving. I wouldn’t really say there is any serious development, just more Obits songs. That may sound bad, but when you already write great songs how can you really improve on them? This continues in the garage-y, but refined style they’re known for, along with Rick’s very distinctive voice and guitar work which falls somewhere between the loose punk-leaning style of his previous outfit Hot Snakes, and something classic rock sounding... like CCR. And I dig the shit out of that. Some of the standout here include the catchy melody of “No Fly List”, the quick urgency of “Killer”, and the hook in “I Want Results”. Once again, Froberg handles all art duties with a beautiful cover, but the interior is lacking a bit, it’s super simple design makes me wish for another bizarre pen and ink illustration he is well known for. (Sub Pop)
TIN HORN PRAYER, “Get Busy Dying”
Plan-It-X rejects? Ghost Mice-This Bike Is a Pipe Cleaner-Bat Shit- trainhopper punx? I have no idea. It’s somewhere along that blurred line of hippie crust panhandler and legitimate Americana type campfire songs. I can’t say it’s really my thing at all, but dudes with banjo, mandolin, harmonica, and your other regular rock band set up get down with some rock n’ twang. I’m thinking a bit of Scouts Honor, a a dash of Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band, and the aforementioned Plan-It-X stuff by gruff fellows drinking whiskey by a fire. Not too bad of a debut, but not my cup of tea. (Bermuda Mohawk Productions)
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