August 24 - 31

August 24 - 31

So let me give a little introduction/apology for fickle on the updates. The tour took a toll on me and when I got back I hated music, the computer, and everything else. I didn't really want to deal with any band stuff or tour stuff or blog stuff or life stuff. So I apologize, it will probably happen again though. You might ask, "why did it take you so long to recoup?" Well the answer to your mysterious question is that shortly after tour I went to Alaska on a fishing trip. I also got a lot of records over the summer that I have yet to listen to. So that means I have plenty of TOP RECORDS that I have gotten in the mail or from tour that I will definitely be putting on here when I get around to spinning them. So yeah, party on.

LP'S OF THE WEEK/SUMMER:

Pisschrist - "Victims of Faith"



I could not find a picture of the new lp, EMF.

So this is my story about this band. Most people have heard it, so disregard this first paragraph to avoid some boring tale. On the Loser Life U.S. tour we played one of the most beautiful cities in all of the United States; the crust mecca of the Midwest, Minneapolis. We were playing a show on a Friday where the door price was 5 bones a person. Anyways, we get there and immediately when we see the promoter (Ryan, who is by far one of my all time favorite people who book shows) tells us, "so you guys are competing against a free show which entails Misery, Pisschrist, Wolfbrigade, etc.." That's like playing in Germany when Germany is playing against Spain in the world soccer championships (trust me, this happened too)!

So us of course being bummed out, we planned to get through the show as fast as we could and go and catch the show at the bowling alley. Our show actually went over very well and we got a lot of gas money and it was a shock that people actually came. After we played we went to the bowling alley (where the free show was) and I got to catch Pisschrist right when they went on. Man, I don't understand how that singer being as small and "gentle" to be such a monster on the microphone. Anyways, this is by far the best crust/d-beat band around right now. So lets talk about the "Victims of Faith" lp.

I picked this up from Yellow Dog the day this record came out and I cannot stop listening to it. They haven't changed a thing from their last lp; trust me, this is a good thing. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. They have kept the same formulas and tidbits that they always use. But unlike most bands who just classless[ly] recycle their songs, Pisschrist actually prevail in writing some of the most intense and brutal songs ever. Unlike most crust/d-beat shit that gets so fucking redundant, Pisschrist are able to bring color to a black and grey sound. The greatest thing about this band is that they are so much different from every other band that is currently doing this style, but they don't stray away from the"genre" at all. From the aesthetics to the song writing, everything fits like tetris or Lego's or some shit like that. That's what is so impressive to me. Pisschrist are so innovative and talented that they are able to take what almost all crust bands do, manipulate it, and then transform it to a masterpiece. This lp is unstoppable and not having it in your collection and being a fan of punk of all genres is a travesty. Don't fuck up, this lp rules to pick it up whenever you get the chance.

Australia does it again; Aussies 2 U.S. 0 (please regard to the STRAIGHT JACKET NATION post).

Favorite songs: Bullshit Media Attack, All Out War, and ShortSighted//Youth

INFORMATION:

Listen to the band here:

www.myspace.com/dbeatholocaust

Order the record here:
www.yellowdog.de (for the euros who haven't gotten this puppy yet)
of
Havoc Records: http://www.havocrex.com (I think Havoc has yet to see copies though, but he is primarily the U.S. distributor.


7" OF THE WEEK:

NO TALK - Both 7"s




FUCK! These records blew my mind. I mean, I liked Insect Warfare and when I heard that one of the members went on to do this band, I wasn't expecting much. I mean, usually when a dude goes astray from one band, he usually starts another band that sounds the exact same. So I really just figured it would be another grind band. And let me emphasize that there is nothing wrong with that, but being the melodic-only pussy that I am (my favorite bands include Samiam and Lemonheads) I was shocked how good these No Talks are.

First heard the songs on the mp3's, they sounded great but I like to really give my opinion with the vinyl. Some people were saying they sounded like some KILLED BY DEATH band or some fucking shitty comparison to a goddamn 80's hardcore band. Obviously it's bullshit, but here is my distorted take. I hear a lot of Rollins Band, but what do I know. The only band they really remind me of is Skrewdriver, which in my book is all that matters. I get that it's probably sounds nothing to you like Skrewdriver, but the vocal patterns are almost identical to Skrewdrivers... Anyways, I digress.

Nothing slags on the records. Guitars and vocals are definitely the best part...dude sounds rough and I like that. From the recording, to the song writing, to the little things like the stamp on the dust sleeve, these records are so well done it's disgusting. I think I really relate to these records is because they specifically single out their hometown and seem to have a love/hate relationship for it. Me, being from Bakersfield can back this mentality 100%. I am anxious for their new material and would love to see an LP by this band. I am positive it wouldn't disappoint. I really love their obsession with bondage and that they actually sound like they are from Texas. Don't fuck with Texas, don't fuck with No Talk.

Favorite songs: Invade Iran and Police Mafia

INFORMATION:

Listen to the songs here: http://www.myspace.com/notalktexas

Order the records here: http://www.myspace.com/arsegestapo1982

or Goingundergroundrecords.com


WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK:

NO BUNNY - LOVE VISIONS lp



Ok, let me just say this before I start. I was working at the record store when he came in (No Bunny guy) and he was a really nice, down to earth, and cool dude. I didn't talk to him much but he was nothing but nice, gave out great vibes, and seemed like a top notch dude. So my hate and disgruntled selection for his lp has nothing to do with him as a person (even though it may seem like that).

When I saw this dude play live I was so angry, I was pacing back and forth. It's retarded how angry it made me. I was upset because I heard so many good things about this guy from a few friends (Andrew and Ronald) and they told me how great he really was. Me mistakenly taking their opinions on music to be sound, I was eating my naivety by the end of the night. See, this is the thing, I really can't stand this sassy, frail, waste-of-man type shit. Seeing a bunch of grown ass men act like 4 year old girls in a boxing ring is disgusting to me. This bubble gum pop gets to be mistaken as garage just because it has a shitty recording sound to it. I just can't get into it and I really need to stop before I can be misinterpreted. I just really can't get into this record nor the live show and I encourage this dude to, well...man the fuck up. FTW.

A lot of people are into this guy, I can't stand it. Crucify me.

May 19 - 25

LP OF THE WEEK:

MEANWHILE - "REALITY OR NOTHING"



Man, I really have been enjoying this record. These guys never tour, but if they did I would have no problem screaming "ALL OF OUR FRIENDS REMAIN DEAD" live. Along with the simple art work, this record gets an A+. But lets start with a story before I talk about how good this lp is. I just got into this band when I got this and the other two re-issue lp's from my friend. Now it's always sort of difficult to know where to start, or to even distinguish which record is which when buying 3 lps of the same band at once. I knew about this band before but never bothered to pay to much attention, mainly because I never saw their records anywhere or knew how to get a hold of most of them. Anyways, I finally got my hand on this material and I think the newest lp is definetely the best.

This lp starts right off with so much intensity. I feel like a brand new punk kid listening to it. My head starts bobbing like a chicken....it's like I am 13 again. Unlike their other lps I picked up, this one stood out the most because of the guitars. They were a ton more catchier than the previous albums and musicianship all around was just better. I mean, it's not like they lacked muiscianship on their first two albums, I just haven't really spun them enough like I have this one. I am more than positive those lps are just as good, but there is something about this new one. Continuing with the song intensity, this isn't your average "d-beat" record. Most records of that style just all seem to imitate each other. There is nothing wrong with that and I think it's a great thing. But what MEANWHILE seems to do is have a uniqueness to every song. Now most people would be offended that I would expect something I call "d-beat" to sound different after every song. But whatever, I am into monotony, but sometimes it gets too generic for my liking. MEANWHILE does a great job at keeping it fresh and dirty. Also, how can you pass up song titles like, "BAY OF PIGS" or "PLAYGROUND OF BLOOD" or "SHIT FLOOD." I mean, song titles alone should sell someone on this record!!!

MEANWHILE has members of TOTALITAR I believe, and if you're a fan of that stuff I am positive you won't be let down by this record. It's highly recommended and encourage you all to check it out! I also hope that when I am old like these dudes I can be playing this good of music.

LISTEN TO THE BAND HERE:

http://www.myspace.com/meanwhilepunk

ORDER THE RECORD HERE:

WWW.FERALWARD.COM


EP OF THE WEEK:

MASSHYSTERI - "PARANOID"



So this 7" has to be good if I am going to spend 11 of my hard earned dollars on a one song 7". I mean, I understand it's an import and limited to 200, but it just sucks to have to spend so much money. Also, the way this record came packaged, I am positive the dude who packaged it has never packed a record before! With my complaints out of the way, let me talk about how awesome this 7" is.

The first 7" will probably make my top ep's of the year in January. The only reason why I never talked about the first one is because I didn't start this blog until after a few months I got the record. I really love this band. I think they are 10000x better than the Vicious and I can't wait for an lp. The first 7" had one flawless song after another. This new 7" doesn't disappoint either. "Paranoid" left off right where their first 7" left off, dark, sad, and consistent. I don't know how on earth both vocalists sound so phenomenal together while singing the same lyric at the same time. The male/female dual vocals blows my mind how on and on point it sounds. The song structures are jaw dropping as well. This band makes me want to quit playing music because how talented everything is. I have probably re-played this same song over again about 20 times since I have heard it and will probably do it another 20.

So obviously my only complaint is that it is only one song. I want more, so maybe they know what they are doing. I am on the edge of my chair urging for more! This band reminds me of later X, for some reason but I am probably wrong. Any band who successfully goes for the X sound can't do any wrong in my book. Seriously check it out!

ORDERING INFORMATION:

You probably missed out on this record because it was an Italian release and limited to 200, but that's ok because I am positive you can find their other 7" on

FERAL WARD. FERALWARD.COM or GOINGUNDERGROUNDRECORDS.COM

LISTEN TO THE BAND HERE:

http://www.myspace.com/masshysteri


WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK:

POMPOUS HARDCORE - THE WHOLE BAND



Ok, before I start to talk about the pathetic pissants in this band, let me cut and paste this email I got from a friend from one of the dudes in this band. I am also not attacking the VAGGIE SKABS....I LIKE THEM.

Hey. My names Lonnie Potbag. How's it going? I play guitar in straight edge kegger (big fresno band) and sing in this crap Pompous hardcore. Us and your citys very own Vaggie Scabs have a split 7" planned for about half a year now and we're looking for a "real" record lable to release it. Are u interested at all? PHC has been destroying the hardcore scene for about a year now and have a split ep with AxRxM out. our stage antics are simlar to ryan and the vaggie scabs, but we take it up a notch by making huge messes with shaving cream, porno, hunderds of condoms, sponges, pounds of candy, blow up dolls, baby food jar bombs, all while cutting myself, rolling around, hitting people and known to break a mike at almost every show. a few months back I let 3 huge pigeons free when we played at a mexican restraunt, the owners were fuking pissed hahahaaaa! stuff like that anyway, just let us know. I have both music masters cheers//orals//bongs LPB

What a pathetic waste of fucking space. Does this dude really email people saying "WE'RE CRAZY, PUT OUT OUR RECORDS"!?!?! Does he also try to sport his new band by saying he was in a BIG FRESNO BAND? The only reason why his shitty old band got any recognition was because he bootlegged bands like CAPITALIST CASUALTIES and DISRUPT and put his band on SIDE B and acted like they did a split with them. Also, why the hell would you try to brag about having a split with ARM? They are just druggie, wanna-be "wacky thrash" kids who probably have already quit trying to be punk and attempting to jump on a new band wagon. I saw FINAL DRAFT, I was sold on how good of a band they were. It's just such a bummer that they got set up with ARM.

I will say this, if I ever booked a band and they tried to pull those antics, I would have no problem beating the shit out of them and letting them no that being disrespectful to someone who is helping you out is not cool. But thank god I like good music and don't have to put up with pathetic wanna-be's like these kids. Glad they are saved for dinosaur, washed up promoters who don't understand how things really go in the DIY scene. But hey, buying alcohol for 18 year olds and being 40 is cool, right?

CLASSIC ALBUM OF THE WEEK:

IGGY AND THE STOOGES - "RAW POWER"



So how pathetic is it that I just barely got really stoked on this album. I mean, I always owned it and liked it (it's hard not to know the lyrics to SEARCH AND DESTROY), but I never really just took the time and slammed it. Well last week I was writing this paper and I needed inspiration to keep me awake. I put it on and I finally had an epiphany. I felt retarded for not being obsessed with this record. I sort of just passed it off as a "CLASSIC/BEST RECORD OF ALL TIME" and never truly gave it the time it deserved. Well I finally have after 10 years. Yeah, EMF.

May 11 - 18

LP OF THE WEEK:

Straight Jacket Nation - Cheap Kicks
(I can't find an online image of the lp cover...Sorry playaaaa's)



Holy hell, this lp is ruthless. From start to finish it guts your mind. This blows away anything else they have done in the past. And by no means am I discrediting what they have done in the past, because their older records were great but Cheap Kicks definetely takes the cake as their best record yet. My buddy Colin tends to think they are going for the whole Cleavland thing (more specifically the first H100's 7") but I don't know much about that band or really much about Cleavland's "sound." He made me a tape and I listened to it a few times and I appreciated it, but nothing ever really "caught my attention." Those who know me well all understand I am a die-hard Chicago-melody type of guy, so unless there is some sort of catchy rhythm, it is going to be hard for me to be impressed. Now with that said, this will give you an idea of an outside source's (his opinion who I appreciate and recommend greatly) view. If he said it is going for the Cleavland thing, it probably means he thinks it is great. Ok, enough of the stupid banter, let me get my opinion in on this thing.

I picked up this lp from them when I saw them on their U.S. tour. I was really stoked to see them since I wasn't going to be able to see them on the rest of their U.S. tour. This is one of those lp's that have zero fillers of songs. This sucks because I can't really choose a favorite. I will say that the singing in this band is what does it for me though. Everyone pulls more then their weight in the band, especially the drums (which rip harder than most people playing this style). But this singing is what slams it for me. Even before seeing them live, I always was blown away how intense this dude sounded. I mean, it's not your average, "Hey dude, I failed chemistry in high school and that's why I am angry" type of thing. It's a real dude with real problems; I love that. I think another reason why I like this band so much is that the dude has lyrics that are "short, brutish, and nasty." I don't mean to sound too cliche here quoting Hobbes, but this is what it reminds me of. Most notably Cold War and Stab Victim. Fuck, I can't really choose though. I am reading through these lyrics right now and spinning the second side and as soon as Cold War ended I wanted to say Vogue. What I am ultimetly getting at is how great this album is because each song stands on it's own. Everyone of these songs are a hit. Both musicianship and lyrically this band dominates.

Now lets talk about their live show.... God dammit, I hate playing with bands like this! You know, after you play and you don't play the best set of your life, but you feel alright about it? You know those times when you're like, "yeah that was alright. I can live with that" type of feelings? Well that's how I felt when we played with S.J.N. But then they actually went on and using our equipment, dominated us (and every band there). It sucks being showed up so hard. I mean, they walked on stage and showed everybody (including BROKEN NEEDLE and others) how inferior we all are to them. I feel sorry for most touring bands that have to share the stage with these dudes. And remember I talked about "intensity" and how the singer projects it so well on the lp, well watch them live. Shit was scary, and I am a pretty big guy. I mean, if this dude (fuck it, any of them...including the drummer whom is a girl) were wanting to fight me, I would gladly apologize and ask for forgiveness. I like that though. In this era/trend of so many bands of kids trying to be angry and dangerous, it's nice to feel uneasy and threatened. I for the first time in a long time actually felt like I could relate. Real adults, real experiences, real problems...really into that.

Funny story: My girlfriend just woke up to me listening to this lp and said, "What is this crazy music? It sounds like Steven music." Sort of lame, but I thought it was worth putting.

Anyways, buy this lp and please see them on tour. They are going to be here for two months and I will personally guarantee they will be the best band you will see all summer (possibly all year).

INFORMATION:

MAKE SURE YOU SEE THIS BAND ON TOUR!!!!!





LISTEN TO THE BAND HERE:
http://www.myspace.com/straightjacketnationusatour

There is also direct links where you can download the lp in it's entirety.

I don't know where you can order the lp from yet, but I am positive if you email them on either their myspace or direct email link, they will be more than happy to direct you where you can purchase it.

Also, Ronald just put them up on his webpage. He has 8 left, so definetely act fast.

www.goingundergroundrecords.com

I think he is trying to sell these more locally though, so if they are coming to your city, wait on it.


EP OF THE WEEK:

HUMAN MESS - UNCAGED ANIMAL



Yeah, I sing for this band and it made the ep of the week. I think this record is great. I have no problem talking about the greatness of it either. I mean, why would I be doing something that I think is mediocre or stupid? Of course I am going to love the stuff I put out, I have no shame admitting it. People compare this to GERMS and POISON IDEA's demo days. I agree with the Poison Idea, but I definetely think the vocals are the best thing . Angry and wild, you would think that a banshee is on the loose. It definetely puts to shame almost every band in Bakersfield (You know who you are), and dominates most records that are being put out today. I can't wait till the lp is out so I can talk about how awesome that record is. Also, the new 7" on GOING UNDERGROUND RECORDS is going to be the best record I will ever be on, so make sure you tune into that. FTW.

YOU CAN LISTEN TO THE BAND HERE:

http://www.myspace.com/humanmess

ORDER FROM HERE:

http://www.nowayrecords.com



WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK:

NAKED ON THE VAGUE - POLTERGEIST PALM


I hate fashion queens and kings trying to imitate being punk. What's even worse is seeing a bunch of "tired of the same old MODEST MOUSE" types of folk dance their ass off to intolerant noise and inconsistent beats. It's not cute to dress like you're in the 70's, have two beers in both hands, and dance like it's the MAMA'S AND THE PAPA'S playing on stage. I was forced to watch this band play because idiots in my hometown think they understand "hate" and "anger." I mean, I think they wanted me to cause trouble, but I really just wanted to stay home and hang out with my girlfriend. This band, including the people in the crowd watching are trying to be different like everyone else, but just fall short of even imitating what is being imitated. I guess this record goes for money on the internet and I might sell it if I can resolve from breaking it and then pissing on the crumbled contents. They sound like another pointless and useless Bakersfield band. God damn, and people wonder why I am an asshole.... Well, here is your answer....Somebody has to do it. Maybe these were cool people, I don't know. And I am not trying to attack them personally, but I really don't see how something so shitty and horrible has the opportunity to tour at all, especially on a different continent. If you want something great from Australia, please refer to the LP of the week.

CLASSIC RECORD OF THE WEEK



SOCIAL UNREST - BEFORE THE FALL

I picked this up from a friend last week and I have been so happy with it. This Bay Area band is awesome and I think this is one of their best albums. I wish I could put all of their albums as the best record, but I just don't want to be that guy. I would much rather focus on real "hate" and "anger" in my WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK section. My favorite thing about this lp is how long it is. And also, don't forget that it has members of SAMIAM. We all know how rad that is. Anyways, check it out!

LISTEN TO THE BAND HERE http://www.myspace.com/socialunrestofficialbandpage

May 4 - 11

LP OF THE WEEK:



WITCHES WITH DICKS - MANUAL

Lets put it on the table, THIS IS THE WORST BAND NAME EVER. But duh, you don't think these guys don't know that either? They could probably give two shits because it really doesn't matter. I ride my bike to school (not because I am a stupid hippy or trendy punk, but because I am fat and I am trying to lose weight) and this is constantly the first thing I listen to while ridding. These guys only have this lp and two other 7"s (I think). All of which are destroyed from the constant spinning on my player. These guys slam so hard. In this day of bootleg 90's punk being praised as innovative and considered GOOD, WWD is the only band that doesn't sound like a high-school garage band. I love love love love this band. I first heard them with the 7" and I couldn't stop listening to it. Two songs and a Lemonheads cover, how can you beat that? But with all this bullshit I keep adding to fill up space, lets talk about the greatness of their lp.

Manual starts off with I think is the best song of the lp, "How to Cook for 40 Humans." But lyrically, the best song for me is "It's not me, it's you."

"as cold as i remember. lets fuck it all and sever all lifelines im not coming back so far im not coming back. you say that you don't need it. so why take a step back to repeat it and change your thoughts and change your friends. change everything you thought you represent. this shit was easier the first time. we don't know where to draw the line. we were safer on the outside cause now we try. as cold as i remember. this isnt all i ever wanted now im going home. im begging to be left alone."

The best is the ending though, with the slow outro. This is only the first three songs. I could talk hours about this whole thing and I just don't want to. My vocabulary isn't expanded enough to articulate the amount of love I have for this bands music. This band is perfect. I wish I was in this band. I wish I was in a band that was like this. In fact, if these dudes ever need a drummer who is reliable I would move to Boston and would start a band with them. I don't even give a shit how stupid the band name is either, because it doesn't matter. I am almost done with school and if they were like, "Yo Steven, do you want to play drums for _________" I would say, "Hell f-word yes." I could convince Christi, I know it. Every release is perfect. It's untouchable. I never get tired of listening to them and I am constantly ripping off their vocal patterns, song structures, and ideas for new songs. The best thing about all this though, is that they are members in a new band that will probably be even better. SERIOUSLY GUYS (MEMBERS IN WWD), CALL ME IF YOU EVER WANT TO JAM, I AM DOWN TO PLAY DRUMS. Their new band has an even stupider name; The Closet Fairies, but again it's not surprise to anyone. I don't know when this lp came out, but it's definetely one of the best.


INFORMATION ABOUT THE BAND:

www.myspace.com/witcheswithdicks


ORDER:
http://www.myspace.com/kissofdeathrecords



7" OF THE WEEK:



CAT PARTY - JIGSAW THOUGHTS


My good friend Ronald talked these guys up like no other. Ronald, pretty much being a main source for me when it comes to new bands, introduced me to these guys. I mean, he pretty much is always talking about a collection of bands because he wants my money, but most of them suck. Rarely do others blow me out of the water. Infact, I found the WITCHES WITH DICKS 7" through him, so it gives you a sense of what he actually does. He also carries a collection of AGROMOSH RECORDS releases too, so maybe that should give you another idea of the dude. Truth is though if it weren't for him, I would probably be 100 dollars a week richer. But who cares, fuck money and people. So with the collection of shitty bands he referred me to this month, CAT PARTY is by far the best out of everything. Dude this 7" is so killer. Seriously, even though it's a stupid name (my girlfriend disagrees, but she also grew up listening to the DEFTONES), aesthetically it all fits weirdly together. Comparing them to GUN CLUB would be way to easy and wouldn't give CAT PARTY the respect they deserve. Credit is given where credit is due and it may be a little to early to assume they have found a unique sounds, but I think it's safe to say that if this band sticks around, they are going to be on a lot more peoples "top 10" lists. One of my bands is playing with them on May 11th (Contaminators) and I really encourage you to go. Not because of us, because you already know how much we rule, but because you need to check out Cat Party. I can't wait for more releases and I support these guys 100 percent until proven differently. And to think, they only live in L.A. They for sure need to start coming to shit-hole Bakersfield much more often.This band is so awesome.

Ordering Information:

http://www.myspace.com/iwannabearichbitch

YOU CAN LISTEN TO THESE SONGS ON THE 7" AND MORE JAMS:

http://www.myspace.com/birdsofpreymusic


WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK:



ALTARS : EVERYTHING

I hate fake bands. We have hundreds of them in Bakersfield. I think I should gather a crew just to rip down all of the flyers that these fake bands put themselves on. But this is irrelevant, so let me start over. I hate fake black metal. I hate fake rich kids who try to play black metal. This dude probably heard BURZUM mp3's once and thought it would be easy to duplicate it. Little did he know how stupid he would sound doing it. I know the dude personally and I am not doing this just because I think he's the biggest piece of shit in the world, but I am doing it because it's a coincidence that someone personally is as shitty as his music. You know how like you have those friends who are great people but their music is shit (refer to the beginning of the review), this is not the case. But it's weird because his music is even worse than his personality. I would hate to be this dude and I would be disgusted with myself for making something so horrible as ALTARS. I mean, he will probably joke about this and act like he is unaffected, but I really hope he sits and thinks about his decisions. Especially with the choices of making music and investing in something as horrible as Altars. He needs to realize he is not a real satanists, he is not crazy, and he is not interesting. He's just normal like everybody else who is trying to be different. Ride a new trend train and please avoid anything that deals with music, for all of our own good.


CLASSIC ALBUM OF THE WEEK:



MIA - AFTER THE FACT

This is one of the greatest albums of the late 80's. Talk about a collection of songs to rip off, expect the new Loser Life lp to sound identical to this. Seriously though, along with these other records talked about (minus ALTARS) I have been slamming this like no other. I was driving to the ANGELS baseball game and I probably listened to the lp ten times from the time I left home till the time got home. Great lp, and their earlier stuff is even better. Definitely check it out.

April 27 - May 2

LP OF THE WEEK:

BLANK DOGS - ON TWO SIDES



Blank Dogs have released a handful of records this past year. All of which are rare and hard to find. I always liked Blank Dogs but they never "blew" me away. I picked up their records and listened to them and then put them away. I will say that I really enjoyed "Diana (the Herald)" a lot. But nothing beats this new lp, On Two Sides.

I don't know anything about this band; they are a complete enigma to me. In fact, when I listen to it I wonder if it's one man doing it all or a whole band. I am sure I can easily find out but I really like the "mystery." I could really care less which one it is, but I hope it's the latter. This is a band I would love to watch live.

I really want to say that I like side B more than A, but there are too many good songs on both sides. I think I say that because when I am done with side A I am like "oh, it's better than side B" and when I am done with side B "oh, it's way better than side A." So that means both sides are awesome and Blank Dogs just keep impressing me with each flip. I think I will say I can tell the fillers from the other ones, but it's rare to find an album where the good songs out weigh the filler songs. Also where the filler songs aren't unbearable and probably better than any song you or I could ever write.

My favorite song on this On Two Sides is definetely PIECES. The guitars are so hard on this. The choppiness makes it sound so brutal. And it's weird saying a Blank Dogs song sounds brutal, but you just have to hear it. I also really love RCD SONG. It's a cheesy, poppy keyboard sound that I just think is great. Yeah, not really a normal pick in my taste of music but I am definetely sold. You just have to hear it!!!!! This leads me to my next point, YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE WHOLE ALBUM FOR FREE ON THEIR WEBSITE! YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THEIR WHOLE DISCOGRAPHY!!!! HOW AWESOME IS THIS! MUCH RESPECT. I love this band and this just makes it even better!!!!!! I am definetely going to use the same idea and plan on doing the same thing...

YOU CAN HEAR THE BANDS DISCOGRAPHY HERE:

http://blankdogs.blogspot.com/

YOU CAN ORDER THE LP HERE:

http://www.myspace.com/sacredbonesrecords

or


http://www.troublemanunlimited.com

7" of the week:


I couldn't leave out either of these 7"s because they were so good. So I decided to have a 1st and 2nd place. Both are so awesome that I had to talk about each of them.


In first place:


Vivian Girls - Wild Eyes


The other day I was working at the record and I openend up and was bummed out I had to work. Not that I hate working, but I knew I had to do homework and I was tired and just wanted to sit and stare. I look down and Ron got some records in including the new Darvocets lp and something else I don't remember. I put them on and was not impressed at all. It actually just gave me a headache and bummed my morning out more. Not that I hate those bands either, I just wasn't into it. I then saw this Vivian Girls 7" and automatically wrote it off. Assuming it was some stupid sass/ L.A. drug psuedo punk, I avoided it. I kept avoiding it until I realized there was nothing else to listen to. I finally put it on and I listened to these ultra short songs more than 30 times a piece!!! I couldn't believe how great it really was! If I ever had to choose a top 10 of the year on this blog, it would definetely be in my top 3 of 2008. I am so into this band and I am going to try my hardest to hear their other records.

A lot like Blank Dogs, this is obviously an unusual pick for me. But this 7" shocked me when I first put it on. It sucks that I am going to be in Europe when they are on tour because I would follow them up and down California. I also can't wait to show this to my girlfriend because she's gonna LOVE it. Seriously, I have emphasized for the past few weeks how awesome the records I have talked about are, but this is probably the one I really urge people to check out. This is the best 7" I have reviewed and will probably be the best for the next year.

In Second Place: NIGHT STICK JUSTICE - Claustrophobic




HOLY HELL! THIS 7" IS SO GOD DAMN HARD! FROM STOP TO FINISH IT'S NON-STOP AGGRESSION AND ANGER!!!!!! Seriously dude, I hate most bands around today. I just think most of them are overrated but fucking a' dude. Not Nightstick Justice. Their first 7" was awesome and their live show was way good too. Both thought were just a taste of this bands perfection; this 7" is a testament to what they are. You know, I don't think they are going to be able to top this 7" but your band or mine probably couldn't either. From start to finish, there isn't one bad note played. These drums fucking whale. From the first song to last, he is definetely one of the best drummers playing this type of music. It compliments the guitar so well, which is so more than solid. That actually is an understatement calling it "solid." I just don't want to come off like a sycophant screaming how great his riffs are. I would rather watch him to steal his style. Great guitar player and I am seriously anxious to just watch him play next time I see them. The best thing about this 7" is the recording. It seriously reminds me of a Boston record from the Jerry's Kids era. Dude, I know...stupid and obvious comparison right? I don't give a shit. Simple lyrics which is perfect for this band, I wouldn't want it any other way. The question then is, "Steven, why aren't they number 1?" Well, great question. This is my only complaint, The first and second song seem to lag towards the end. And I know, it's a simple minute and a half (roughly) for both of them, how could it be too long? I don't know playa, it's just what I take from it. I have listened to it several times and it's the only thing I come away saying. It's obviously just me, and it's not that big of a deal. If it were any other week, this record would be at the top of my list! So it really doesn't fully matter! This band is on tour right now and I think they are doing the U.S. this summer. Don't miss your chance to jump on this bands bandwagon. Oh, do I even need to mention how awesome the artwork is? Seriously, I am already planing on ripping off the aesthetic for myself.

YOU CAN HEAR THE BAND HERE: http://www.myspace.com/nightstickjusticeba

YOU CAN ORDER THE RECORD HERE:

http://www.gravemistakerecords.com/


Worst Record of the week:

AGROMOSH RECORDS



I was originally going to shit on probably one of the worst bands ever called "MAGGOT COLONY" but I realized that it was just way too easy. I know this is breaking the rules and it's not a record, but this whole label in general is one the grill. I was in the record store the other day and was looking on what to listen to and I found like 6 of this dudes records that I all thought should be on the "WORST RECORD OF THE WEEK" list. So I decided to look at his website/myspace and the dude hasn't put out one good record. From "wacky thrash" to "shit grindcore" this dude pisses his money away on useless bands who shouldn't even be playing music in the first place. Seriously, how does this guy get the money to keep putting out shitty record after shitty record? Nothing he puts out is worth 10 cents, much less 3 fucking dollars! I guess maybe the whole paper cover thing saves him enough money? But I mean, after his 50th release of a live AGATHOCLES record, he would realize that this whole record label thing ain't for him. As weird as this sounds, this is not a personal attack on the dude because I have never met him. But man, worst fucking label ever and I am proud to say I don't have one of his records in my collection. Anyone who has a music symbol crossed out as his logo is someone that I definetely don't want to be releasing my record with.

YOU MIGHT BE INTO IT, BUT NOT ME...CHECK IT OUT http://www.myspace.com/agromoshrex

CLASSIC RECORD OF THE WEEK:

Leatherface: Mush




If you haven't heard this lp yet, then I really encourage you to do so. And when you're done with that, check out their other ones. Don't stop until you have listened to every single song. One of my all time favorites and I am so excited to see them play/play with them. This lp from start to finishes makes me wish I smoked and drank heavily so I could have a voice like Frankie Stubbs. Seriously, how cool would that be to just sound like a raspy sailor?! Anyways, yeah...so stoked to see them live!

April 20 - 26

LP OF THE WEEK:

Crime Desire s/t LP

This lp is great. I hated it at first. It sucks because I am such good friends with everyone in the band and I couldn't stand listening to it. This is the problem when you get MP3 tracks of the recording/watch all of the songs live before hearing it on its finished format. I hated the vocals (I am going to refuse to name any member by name for the sole purpose that I don't want to be finger pointed as a name dropper, even though none of these idiots have any scene credibility anyways). I couldn't wrap my head around the double overlay of vocals. A lot of bands do this, anyone who records regularly knows this; I blame the sound engineer though, not the band. But again, this was on first listen with a shitty rip quality of the songs.
The question is though, "Steven, how did you go from hating the record to being one of the most listened records in your collection?" Well funny that question arises. I got the lp around the same time I got the My Hell 12"s and so it never hit my turntable. I was too busy being upset with the MP3's and spinning our new record. I then got another package that entailed the Waco Fuck lp (made famous by me last week) and cd version of both albums. Being lazy, I decided to bring the cds into my car to listen to them. This album blew me away. The production is 10000x better than some computer rip (obviously). These songs are so heavy, it makes me tense up with energy. I know that sounds stupid, but I can't articulate it very well. Minus all the poetry (which sounds like Butt-Head from the t.v. show giving a poem), the vocalist kills on this album. This vocalist is one of the best singers around today. Full of energy, disdain, intelligence, and aggression, this vocalist has some of the best vocal patterns I have ever heard. Not only that the lyrics are amazing; this includes fucking in a church and naked vampires.
The two best songs of the album, which was hard to choose from minus the first and fifth track (poetry tracks), were The Failed Man and Shake the Temple. Here are my favorite parts of the songs:

The Failed Man

Waiting for mankind to fall.
Abused and mistreated.
Repulsed by my own flaws.
Vain and conceited.
A comfortable isolation.
Repetition soothes.
Wrapped up in seclusion.
Nothing left for them to lose.
***
The hardest days lie in front of me.
The hardest days, I welcome misery.
I see the serpent's fangs and they don't scare me.

The highlights in Shake the Temple are hard to point out. Maybe it's because of my sexual addiction that this song just really appeals to me, but when he says "Gonna break your faith, gonna break your pride girl. And I will shake the temple" I get tickled with passion. As creepy as it sounds, I just love the thought that went into something as stupid and useless as sex. Big ups.

As stated before, I didn't like this lp at first. But after hearing it on its proper format, it is definetely the best lp I have heard in a long time. The guitar sounds and riffs are so original and the solos blow my mind. This dude rips at guitar and I can't believe such a simple sound can sound so innovating. If you don't believe me, listen to the last track which is Shake the Temple. All of the instruments come Including the bass playing and drums combined, all of the songs seem to come to a point at this piece. It definetely puts Crime Desire at a new level which makes them untouchable. This lp puts them over the edge and is their best album to date. It's a shame these guys don't tour more. Crime Desire is one of the best bands around right now, and I am so anxious to hear more recordings. I am also curious to see if they can top this because I don't think any one can, it's just too good.

Here is the ordering information:

http://www.myspace.com/crimedesire666
M.Colin Tappe
POB 278
Carlsbad, CA 92018
USA


Shipping (This includes the Waco Fuck lp and Loser Life 12" as well):
US: Add $3 flat for anything up to 3 LPs and 2 CDs worth of stuff. After that just add $1.

Canada: $5 first LP, add $2 after that per LP/CD (so shipping for 2 LPs would be $7). Add $.50 per ep after that.

World: $12 first LP, add $4 after that per LP/CD. Add $1 per ep after that.

Payment:
Paypal: colinrrmf@yahoo.com

7" OF THE WEEK:

SACRED SHOCK s/t 7"

Hands down, these guys are super good live. They are doing a west coast tour right now, so if you haven't missed them, make sure you don't. I really love watching musicians knowing how to own their instruments. It's even better watching them own their instruments and playing in sync with each other. I just love the whole aesthetic of the band as well. I had to buy both shirts because both of them looked so rad. Both of their 7"s look awesome too.
At first listen I thought the previous 7" was better. But that's not the case anymore; I was merely just more familiar with it. This new one is so powerful. 1000x more powerful than the previous one. This was only recorded on an 8 track as well!!! How did something so good come out of an 8track?! The song of the record is definetely Overshadowed//Underestimated. I love is when the singer screams "Miles away, it's still our home." This guitar player is unbelievably good too. He delivers these riffs like no other. Finding guitar players like this is an anomoly and I definetely am anxious to hear the other work he has done. I don't know any guitar player who is playing with the same style/intensity as he is playing. Live, I couldn't believe he is able to pull it off so well (playing the riffs/solos/rhythm). Also, the singers vocal patterns are fantastic while the drums and bass don't ever miss a note away from each other.
It's easy to say "these dudes sound like Tragedy." They really don't though. The guitar and bass sound seriously give me a Chicago feel to it. I want to say "Articles of Faith" but that's sort of a cop out. I hate describing bands but I definetely will say that the sound is more than meets the ear at the first listen. My only complaint, the songs are a tad bit too long. That's child's play though. The songs are good enough to be this long. They could have a 20 minute song and I would still be blown away by it.

Here is the ordering information:

http://www.myspace.com/sacredshockatx
http://www.schizophrenicrex.com/

SHITTIEST RECORD OF THE WEEK:

Lord Galvar/ Swimsuit Rights Split 7"



Man, what a fucking joke. It's like a bunch of dudes got together to pitfart on a snare drum. The shitty thing is, that the musicians in these bands are not bad musicians; they just don't know how to be in a band for more than 2 months to create anything decent. In fact, to think of it, on the right instrument they are actually pretty good at what they do! So how the fuck did they drop the ball on their one chance (hopefully not their only) to put something good to wax? Beats me. This record is so unbearable that I was forced to break the fucking thing and throw it away. I wish I had pictures to prove it. Why would anyone waste money to put this shit onto wax. Maybe they are trying to prove something? I bet the owners have hundreds of these records sitting in their closet. It's harder to give these away then it is to throw it away. Bakersfield already looks bad, but these guys make it look even worse. Seriously, they are great musicians they should do something worthwhile.


Here is the ordering information:

http://www.myspace.com/swimsuitrights http://www.myspace.com/lordgalvar

I belive this record was self released but you can order it from:
www.GoingUndergroundRecords.com
CLASSIC ALBUM OF THE WEEK:

CRUCIFUCKS - "WISCONSIN" LP



I bought this lp the other day at a show. I had owned it previously on cd format and I always loved it. Spinning it all week with other records, this album really sticks out. I have been falling asleep to it and have really just enjoyed it. I like other Crucifucks albums more, but this one has gotten the most attention recently. My favorite song is definetely Washington but all of them are good. Check it out!

LP OF THE WEEK:

Waco Fuck is a band that you never want to play with. Sharing the bill with them just proves how inferior your band is to Waco Fuck. When I first saw Waco Fuck play, it was in a shitty warehouse where the promoter ripped us off. I admit that I didn't really watch Waco Fuck, or cared to. I had no idea what they sounded like but I was too busy figuring out devious ways on fucking up the venue. Anyways, Colin (Life's a Rape Records) kept telling me how great the recordings were and how awesome of a band, in every sense of the way Waco Fuck is. At this time he was putting out the "Slow Decay" 7" and sent me the songs. When I heard these I just got angry and upset. Not that the music manifested aggression, but because I was angry that I wasn't in a band that sounded this good.
In comes Paranoia is Total Awareness lp. This juggernaut is a force to be dealt with. When I first heard it, I was on the fence. Not because the music put me there, but I didn't want to like it because everyone around me who heard it talked it up like no other. But I can't help it, this lp rules. When songs like "Military Funeral" comes on, it blows my mind. And the lyrics in the beginning of "Employee of the Month" gets me so pumped up. "Neutered and housebroken, I have become what I hate." I think any person who endures monotonous activities just to survive can relate to this. But really, all of side b just really makes the record what it is. All the songs are amazing, but once you get to side b, you really start to appreciate the lp!
On top of all this, the art work is GREAT!!!! No really needs to talk about it, because you can see for yourself. This record is fantastic and I encourage you to get the vinyl. If you can't afford to shell out ten bones to the label, Life is a Rape has the cd version, which consists of both of their 7"s as well as their lp for only five bones. You can't beat that deal!

CONTACT THE BAND/LISTEN TO A FEW OF THE SONGS:
www.myspace.com/WacoFuck

CONTACT THE LABEL/ORDERING INFO:
LIFE'S A RAPE RECORDS
Paypal: colinrrmf@yahoo.com
Money Order: PM/e-mail first to reserve
M.Colin Tappe
POB 278
Carlsbad, CA 92018 USA

EP OF THE WEEK:


Call the obvious police, I put a Jay Reatard record as one of my favorite 7"s this week. I haven't really liked anything else he has put out since his Blood Visions lp, but this is way radical. It's probably because I love bands like Gin Blossoms, Soul Asylum, and other novelty 90's bands that people usually make fun of while referencing some shitty movie like Empire Records or Reality Bites. But seriously, my girlfriend heard the lp and she said his voice gave her a virulent feeling in her stomach. As a joke I decided to put this new 7" on a tape and she comes back loving the 2 songs and wondering who it was...go figure. So yeah, not that she is the deciding factor, but it is just a great record and I am anxious to hear more material like this. Up the Punks, fuck Matador.

If you haven't heard Jay Reatard yet, then you can hear it here:
www.myspace.com/jayreatard

If you want to order this record, plus some of his older ones (some rarities as well), go here:
www.goingundergroundrecords.com
Classic Record of the Week:


What did you expect?! This is my favorite band and I am getting used to all of this. If you haven't heard Pegboy, or have only heard a few songs, this is the album that you need to start on. Strong Reaction is one of my favorite records of all time. Seriously, check it out. This Chicago band has members of Naked Raygun and Bhopal Stiffs; you can't go wrong with those two power houses.

LISTEN TO PEGBOY HERE:
www.myspace.com/OfficialPegboy