TOP TEN LISTS
Dan (no order)
Jon (no order)
Gabe (no order)
NOISE REFUSE
We try not to review records that suck, so if it's reviewed here, it's probably a good indication that we liked it. We will print postage paid prices when provided. One thing you may want to think about if you are writing overseas for records. Most countries (particularly in Europe or Japan) have ridiculously high postal rates and e.p.'s are often as expensive as $7 incl. postage to send. If you do send money overseas for a record, be sure to include a non insulting amount of money for postage! Many of these titles are also available quite inexpensively from P.E. Distribution (please send us two stamps for a complete list).
"When you think of the countless number of more useful things you can do with a piece of plastic than make a record out of it, I feel the least we can do is say something worthwhile on it." -Generic
A-38 7"
80's sounding punk rock from Bremen, Germany. Devotees of Bay Area punk may recognize a couple relocated members of Econochrist and Christ on Parade and fans of UK ska may remember the other two members from the Knuckleheads; but that's beside the point really. Musically, this record is quite enjoyable for the basic punk rock and roll simplicity and the lyrics go back to the snotty early days of punk as well. There's even a Dead Boys cover so fitting with the rest of this e.p. Nothing spectacular, but decent none the less. (Dan)
$7 ppd from Into the Vortex c/o Jens Tuch / Kleine JohannesStr. 6-7 / 28199 Bremen / Germany
ACTIVE MINDS/YACOPSAE split 7"
Active Minds do fast, screaming hardcore at times, and then slow it down to more singy, melodic hardcore, but always keeping their political lyrics. They've always been a favorite of mine - if you haven't heard them yet, you should. Yacopsae are fast hardcore in the vein of power violence, all done well in my opinion. Good release overall. (Julie)
Thought Crime c/o Jens Walter / Plter Sburge STR 68 / 10 249 Berlin / Germany
AGAINST ALL AUTHORITY Above The Law 7"
Upbeat ska and punk in a potent mix not heard since the days of Operation Ivy. Songs about being punk, against the cops ("You're gonna Die Pig!"), and authority. Angry, rebellious, and quite decent! (Dan)
Farout Records/ P.O. Box 14361/ Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33302
APARTMENT 3G Double Whoosher CD
With only seven songs, this isn't quite a full-length, but you get more than an e.p.'s worth in any case. Musically, this Portland band is somewhere between NOFX and J-Church, relying on the melodic and poppy approach (or transgression) to punk. While the music was about as anger-filled as the Easter Bunny, their lyrics are written almost in a story form, relating tales of their (seemingly) disastrous European tour, personal relationships, and people in general, and convey a little more urgency than their music would suggest. I think I'll send this to Ramsey at AK Press because he can't deal with the heavy stuff... (Dan)
Kangaroo Records / Henk Smit / Middenweg 13 / 1098 AA Amsterdam / The Netherlands
APEFACE / ZERO HOUR split LP
This is a split of two band worth checking out. Zero Hour gives a moody almost dark feel that is a bit hard to describe. Intense female vocals complement the almost eerie music well, and all is topped of with intelligent lyrics. Apeface are a bit less intense, but not worse in quality. They do their style of screaming vocals over mid-tempo, catchy hardcore. Pick this up. (Julie)
Stinky Feet Records / 4583 Pearlave #4 / San Jose, CA / 95136-1811
ASOCIAL Total Asocial CD
Asocial was one of leading Swedish hardcore bands in the mid-80s playing some of the heaviest hardcore punk until their time. Their two classic eps "Det Bittra Slutet" and "Religion Sucks" comprise some of the best Discharge inspired Swedish thrash to date. But, although included here, this CD focuses on Asocial before their eps from 1980-83. Their sound then was quite a bit different than the style played on the two seven inches- there is less of an emphasis on the thrash side and more of an old punk rock feel. There is also some tracks that appeared on the "Eat My Brain Go Insane" bootleg a few years ago that are all out blasts of high speed thrash. All in all this is 57 tracks of classic Asocial showing the progression of their style all in one awesome collection. (Jon)
Finn Records c/o J. Lehto/ Norrgaten 43/ 703 56 Orebro/ Sweden
ASSFORT 7"
Yes! Another kick ass release by one of the best bands in Japan. All out Japanese hardcore with all the works. But what really makes Assfort great is that they stick to the raging, straight forward approach with screaming vocals and blazing riffs. It's almost like Poison Idea played on 45. The best Japanese release in a while ! (Jon)
Prank/ P.O. Box 410892/ San Francisco, CA 94141-0892
AUS-ROTTEN The system works ...for them LP
11 songs of, get off your ass and do something about it, punk as fuck rock. The packaging is one of the best I've seen in a while, it comes with a 6-way gatefold that becomes a poster, a "rotten propaganda" 'zine filled with info on political prisoners, protests and demos., vegetarianism, cointelpro... and a 6" flexi spoken-word from deathrow by Mumia Abu-Jamal. Lyrics deal with boycotting multi-nationals, political prisoners, the BATF, polluting corporations... The music is pretty basic, but fast and driving and that's all you need! If you liked their early stuff, you sure will like this. (Fred)
Tribal War/ P.O. Box 20712/ Tompkins Sq. Sta., Ny, Ny 10009F
BARRICADES To Samo Cierpienie cassette
From the name, I first thought this was from Spain, but it turns out to be Polish. Well, what can I say about this that I haven't already said about the extraordinary anarchopunk rock coming from Poland these days? Musically, this would fall into a mix between crust and heavy punk with enough variation to keep it interesting. In an unusual step, English translations are provided for the Polish lyrics against war, vivisection and the fucked up state. Very good! (Dan)
Marein Zyeki / Orzeszkowej 4/39 / 39-405 Tarnobrzeg / Poland
BATTLE OF DISARM/SUBCAOS SPLIT 7"
B.O.D are one of the best D.I.Y. punk band in Japan. Four songs of intense, swedish influenced, hard-core that i just can't get enough of. Lyrics about vivisection, war, exploitation... sung in English (i think) with Japanese translations. Subcaos are from Portugal and play a more old E.N.T. type of punk. Dual pissed off vocals, 4 songs total, two in English about 3rd worlds and one called Japanese jawbreaker which i don't quit get what it's about and the two others are sung in Portuguese so... Comes with a patch from each band(for those punk points!) and the cover is a 6-way fold-out with pictures, collages, slogans etc... A really good split! (Fred)
D.I.Y. Records/ Ryuji Asada/ 102 Nakame House/ 3-25-20 Koenji Minami/ Suginami-ku/ Tokyo 166 Japan.
BEBES PARANOICOS Fabricas Magicas... Lapidas Tetricas cassette
Hard and solid 80's style punk with just a dash of melody in for good measure; vaguely similar to the first LP by Bad Religion minus the wimpy vocals. The tunes pack a punch while letting a bit of diversity shine through. This ranks with the best coming out of South America. (Kerry)
Bebes Paranoicos/ Thomas Mann 682 / Villa Lo Errazuriz / Maipu / Santiago / CHILE
BIJES ZORDABOG RAZUMA / NULA split LP
This project is the result of two, very dedicated punk band from Croatia, teaming up to create the very first, self-produced record from their region. This dedication shows through in every aspect of this release, from the informative writings and effort put into the graphic-filled lyric booklet (English translations throughout), to the quality of the highly political lyrics, to the fresh, powerful punk rock on the record. As previously mentioned, the lyrics are highly political, with a special emphasis on anti-nationalist and anti-militarist themes only too appropriate for their regional politics, and the whole project has an enthusiastic 'punk vs. the evil world' attitude. Exceeds all expectations, and then some! (Dan)
Mihovil Rosa / 8. Dalmatinske ud. brigade 46 / 59000 Sibenik / Croatia (or) Marko Vukovic / Bolnika 96 / 41000 Zagreb / Croatia.
BOYCOT Only Stupid Bastards Help Epitaph 7"
The first thing that grabs you about this e.p. is the Conflict-inspired title brazenly displayed across the front cover. Inside there is a booklet explaining the reason behind the title, railing against the corporate take-over of punk rock in the 90's (seems like 1983 all over again...). However, there's more to this band than Epitaph-bashing, with excellent political lyrics against religion, homophobia and of course a continued diatribe against the sellout of punk rock: "No NOFX, Fuck Offspring, Slay Green Day..."
Musically, the delivery is fast and raw, with enough variations to keep it interesting. There is also documentation about the title them, a lyric book and animal liberation information included with the record, which is on colored vinyl no less! This is apparently limited to 1000 copies, so get it while you can. (Dan)
Axiome Productions / France
BRAWL Gulag LP
This album has been out for nearly a year now, but this is a first time I've spotted one on the North American shores. BRAWL are from Ireland and, for the most part, play fast hardcore with each song containing numerous music twists and varied sections throughout each song. The vocals have no edge of gruffness, and have almost a posi-core sound, which is in total contrast to their lyrics which are lengthy, desperate cries against the isolation of geographical and social poverty of their surroundings. Quite a solid release, although I don't think it will have much appeal for those looking for the tired simplicity of the crust core genre. (Dan)
Genet Records / P.O. Box 447 / B-9000 Gent 1 / Belgium
THE BRISTLES Last Year's Youth LP
If you've heard their ep's, you'll know that The Bristles play snotty punk, with obnoxiously nihilistic lyrics and rock and roll punk sound straight out of 1977. Without pretense of a polished sound and presentation, The Bristles come through true to form on their debut full-length release, with songs against authority and America, about having no future, alcoholic annihilation, and of course fighting. For reasons beyond my comprehension, this sort of get drunk and pogo style is making a strong comeback as illustrated by the success of Blanks 77, Quincy Punx and now The Bristles (and here come the Murderers....!?). Musically, this record is catchy and enjoyable, but presents no new ideas in style or approach, but that's not really what they're after. While reviewing this, I coughed up a huge greeny onto the lyric sheet. Perhaps my subconsience was trying to tell me something? (Dan)
Beer City Records / P.O. Box 26035 / Milwaukee, WI 53226-0035
C.F.D.L. / REGENERACION split 7"
As far as I know, this is the last release by Japan's C.F.D.L., who have now split up and formed new bands. Recorded live in 1994, it features four tracks of really noisy thrash and one song in that Oi style- all lyrics translated into Spanish. Mexico's Regeneracion blast out four tracks in their own unique style of distorted grind with an extremely noisy sound- all lyrics in Spanish. This is a strong D.I.Y. release and should definitely be sought out if you enjoy fast, noisy, distorted thrash. (Jon)
Cryptas Records c/o Cruz V. Luis/ Campo Horcon #143/ Col. Reynosa/ C.P. 02200/ Mexico D.F./ Mexico
CHASM Squander, squander the bright new dawn 7"
First of all, the first side has got a lash-out against the corporate "punk" music explosion. I like this. Second of all, they got a grasp on the classic punk sound, and they can play their instruments respectively. Overall this EP is pretty good, except for the use of the double bass which just doesn't work for me. The effort they make to add some originality leaves them above a lot of bands today. (Kerry)
Boot to the head records.
CODE 13 They Made A Wasteland and Called It Peace 7"
Whooaa! Is Felix actually trying to sing? The first song on this ep is a Minor Threat inspired anthem called "Hardcore For The Kids". About the real hardcore punks of the Twin Cities and hanging out on Lake Street. The next songs are more in the crusty vein, yet sound less like Destroy! now than their first ep and have much more musical variance from early American punk influences to Carcass. Lyrics are the usual anti-cop, anti-fascist, anti-poser persuasion with the odd sing-along chorus. The sound is a little muddier than the previous recording but acceptable none the less. My copy came on green vinyl, but there are undoubtedly other colors to help create your own stained glass window. (Dan)
Havoc Records / P.O. Box 8585 / Minneapolis, MN 55408
Coprofilia s/t cassette.
22 songs of powerful punk/HC with metal overtones hailing from Mexico City. They sing in Mexican and theres no lyric sheet or translations so I have no idea what their songs are about, there's a definite political feel though. Highly recommended. (GABE)
Sin Fronteras Discos/P.O. Box 8722/Mpls, MN/55408
CRUNCH Benvenuti Persone! 7"
This is the third EP from these Italian punks Crunch and definitely the best one I've heard yet! Total thrash in the consummate Italian style that threatens to explode at any moment. the lyrics are in Italian, but have the usual squatter, DIY punk ethic of the Torino scene. If you're looking for something to take you over the edge, this one is it! (Dan)
Federico Lisfera / Via Rocciamelone 13 / 10090 Villarbasse (Torino) / Italy
CWILL s/t 7"
Four new really good songs of this band from Switzerland. The music is a bit like ABC Diabolo and the vocals sometimes sound like Zorn. the best songs are the songs with the violin. If you own their 10" you will like that, and if you don't, you will have to try this. (Joe)
Sacro Egoismo Records c/o Tiberiju / Felberstr. 20/12 / 1150 Vienna / Austria
DAMAD s/t cassette
This band has their own sound that's difficult to convey in words. They have harsh female vocals along with other occasional cries and screams over intense music. It all creates a moody, dark atmosphere. I thought this was great, but its best to hear it for yourself. (Julie)
121 E. 63rd St./Savannah, GA / 13404
DEPRESSOR cassette
Crusty death metal meets early Godflesh. Not bad if you're into that sound so popular a few years back. (Dan)
Smitty / 2505 Divisadero / San Francisco, CA 94115
DESPISE YOU s/t 7"
What can I say? DESPISE YOU kick 13 more songs in their style of super short thrash blasts touched with various rhythm changes and quirks. There's not a dull moment on this 7", it actually reminds me of early D.R.I. a lot. If you like ultra-fast hardcore and you haven't heard this band do yourself a favor and obtain this!!!!! (GABE)
Theologian/200 Pier Ave. #2/Hermosa Beach, CA/90254
DISASSOCIATE/INSANE YOUTH split 7"
Insane Youth rage on with more fuzzy distortion 10 ton raging noise in perfect fashion. The Disassociate stuff is noisier than the last release, which fits along fine here. If you like this style, get this for sure. (Kerry) MCR Company/ 157 Kamiagu Maizuru/ Kyoto 624/ Japan
DISCLOSE Tragedy LP
Originally released by Overthrow Records in Japan with a ridiculously low press run, it's now back in print for all those who missed out the first time. Quickly becoming the new kings of the split ep, Tragedy is by far their best recording with their best songs and raw (but audible) sound quality. For those who haven't heard Disclose yet- they're from Japan and play the kick-ass Discharge inspired hardcore these days. So if that's your gig don't miss your second chance. (Jon)
Your Own Jailer Records/ Marmorvägen 14 B/ 752 44 Uppsala/ Sweden
DISCORDANCE AXIS ULTERIOR LP
This record caught me by surprise, it is exceptionally good. It's excellent grind with added noise and interesting rhythm changes that pulls it away from the rest, with multiple vocals thrown on top. The cover art is cool too - overall this is just a good release. (Julie)
Devour records / P.O. Box 108 / Boston, MA / 02117
DISCORDANCE AXIS/PLUTOCRACY 7"
Discordance Axis are probably one of the most unacknowledged bands around today, their brand of hardcore/grind is notches above most in its unique style and approach, and this record is no exception! 5 songs of complete controlled insanity that they somehow manage to pull of with the utmost grace and finesse. On the other side is Plutocracy who play 6 songs of their hardcore/grind zaniness played with aptitude. (GABE)
Slap a Ham/P.O. Box 42083/S.F. CA/94142-0843
DISGUSTING LIES Byt Okresla Swiadomosc cassette
Another incredible anarchopunk band from Poland here with an album-length cassette release containing sixteen songs of brutally powerful, metal-edged punk rock. Again, the lyrics are in Polish, with no translations provided, but have and obvious anarchopunk content from their graphics and logos. A enormous quantity of great new bands coming from Poland these days really puts the American scene to shame and this tape is a good example of that. (Dan)
Demonstrcja Tapes / P.O. box 115 / 15-662 / Bialystok 26 / Poland
DISKONTO More Power to the Cops... Is Less Power to the People 7"
There has been quite a bit of critisism lately regarding 'Dis' bands and simple three chord riffs. If it's not for you, so be it- but does every band have to prove something? Diskonto play this style with enough anger and conviction to send shivers down your spine. Barelling drums, raw guitars and trade-off vocals topped with perfectly simple leads make this record amazing. It's difficult to review this without making it sound like other things, but I'm at a loss for adjectives. This is one of the best bands going now- and this ep takes them a step further than last year's ep on P.E. Lyrics are translated in to English and Polish as well. (Jon)
Malarie Records/ Martin Valasek/ Ropice 281/ 739 56 Trinec 6/ Czech
DISSENSION CD
A full collection of all recorded material by one of the most unnoticed hardcore/ grind bands of recent years. Dissension played a beefy blend of barreling barbaric thrash with dual brutal vocals and pissed off political lyrics. This CD features 19 tracks from both of their eps, the split ep, and some unreleased tracks. Unfortunately, this starts with the earlier material which doesn't compare to the later stuff in the intensity of the songs or the power of the production- so keep that in mind on your first listen. This is the type of stuff that gives grindcore a good name- angry, political, and D.I.Y.! (Jon)
Reiterate Records/ P.O. Box 287/ Harwinton, CT 06791
DOOM Monarchy Zoo 7"
Recorded half way through their 1995 Scandinavian tour, this new e.p. brings yet another change of line-up to the UK's most durable punk ensemble known as Doom. While the vocals lack the resounding head kick of Tom's on their Fuck Peaceville LP and split e.p.s with E.O.M. and Hiatus, the new vocalist does an adequate job of delivering the gruff vocals in a still understandable fashion. The title song, having perhaps the most wordy lyrics of any Doom song ever, is a lengthy diatribe against the Queen and the ridiculous antics of Britain's Royal family. The rest of the e.p. returns to their Discharge-style haiku against war, the system and conformity which you may recognize from previous recordings. While the intervening years have changed the sound and musical proficiency of the band, this e.p. could easily become a classic alongside their other e.p. Police Bastard. (Dan)
Discipline / Vinyl Japan / Rear Yard / 281 Camden High Street / Camden Town / London NW1 7BX / England
DOOM Fuck Peaceville double LP
Released on the band's own label, this is a complete re-recorded collection of all of their Peaceville recordings(War Crimes LP and Bury The Debt split LP with No Security) as well as the Police Bastard ep, and a few other tracks. Recorded with last years line-up (the best yet in my opinion), this recording is leaps and bounds better than the originals as far as the tightness of the playing, the full and thunderous production, and the more harsh and angry vocal style. Although this is indeed better, I still prefer the originals- after listening to something for seven years, I think of it as part of a different era. But regardless, it's great to see this stuff re-issued in a D.I.Y. manner and at a low price. If you haven't heard the early Doom stuff, you're missing out in a big way and I guarantee you'll play this record countless times. Don't buy Peaceville- you know it makes sense! (Jon)
Distributed by Profane Existence
EBOLA LP
What a nice surprise. Half of One By One (the half that's not in Suffer) and three other folks have gotten together this great new hardcore band. Although it has similarities of O.B.O. (i.e. standout female vocals, similar guitar sound, and excellent political lyrics), Ebola play a much faster and abrasive blend of political hardcore punk with trade-off female/ male vocals. 13 tracks of top speed hardcore with a few slow bits thrown in here and there. A 28 page booklet contains lyrics, explanations, band info, and awesome bold graphics that really accentuate the lyrics which attack religion, punk rock conservatism and commercialism, media melodrama, suicide, and other topics. All in all, this LP has the works- maximum sound quality (recorded at "In A City" studios), great music, well-stated lyrics, and top notch packaging. (Jon)
Flat Earth Records/ "Bradford Music?"/ P.O. Box 169/ Bradford/ BD7 1YS/ U.K.
EPÄJÄRJESTYS demo 17/6/95
We got this demo last July but it somehow got misplaced and I found it in the "crap" box last month. These guys are from Finland and play full on, intense as fuck swedish-style hard core. I'd compare them to bands like Diskonto and Totalitär but somehow it shows that they're from Finland. Although it's a demo, the sound quality is pretty good. Dual angry vocals, with lyrics sung in Finnish with English translations dealing with ignorant hero wannabe soldiers, bastard cops busting you for drinking "homebrew" in the street, work 9 to 5, get home, watch TV bullshit, homeless people, protests etc... All in all a very good band, can't wait to hear more from these guys. Oh, by the way, Epäjärjestys means disorder in Finnish... (hail homebrewers!). (Fred)
Markku Hirvela/ Koppelonkatu 1n4/ 65370 Vaasa Finland.
ESCUELA DE ODIO La Escuela del Odio 7"
Powerful hardcore from this three-piece band from Spain, playing classic punk, with a powerful edge, almost bordering on death metal with the crunch of the guitar in places. The lyrics are in Spanish (with French, Portuguese(?) and English translations provided) and are political, in the get-out-and-take action sort of way, with topics on radical action, child abuse, animal liberation, militarism, and systematic control. Maybe it's all been said before, but it's going to be said again and again until something changes to wipe away apathy. I really liked this one, if for nothing more than it's angry, political punk outlook and compelling music to match. (Dan)
Xunca Records / C/Fuente del Real, 9 BIS 1° / 33209 Xixon / Spain
ESSOASSO / LOUD PIPES split 7"
A split e.p. of transatlantic proportions with Essoasso, from Wilmongton, North Carolina, and Loud Pipes, from Stockholm, Sweden. The former plays fast hardcore, with absolutely screaching, angry vocals with political lyrics. The latter play similarly fast music, taking the Swedish hardcore sound and mixing in a tiny extra melody, while screaming vocals about more nihilistic, back to '77 topics. A bit of contrasting approach by the two bands, but quite enjoyable listening in spite of the conflicting messages expressed. (Dan)
Essoasso / 7121 Quail Woods Rd / Wilmington, NC 28405
F.M.D. This is Your God cassette
Eighteen songs of noisy hardcore, with angrily screamed vocals covering social, political, and personal topics in a sometimes annoyingly vague fashion. There is a Minor Threat cover, an instrumental and a vast amount of room for improving the recording quality. (Dan)
P.O. Box 12401 / Memphis, TN 38182-0401
FLESHREVELS Extreme Meat Eater CD
I was really anticipating the arrival of the new Fleshrevels CD, as the first one became an instant fave of mine with it's bone-crushing blend of Swedish hardcore. However, this new CD doesn't pack the power of the debut Stoned And Out CD. It's still good, but definitely not the same- a new vocalist that's not as powerful as the last and too many Oi punk overtones. The best thing about this is the lyrics, which are fucking hilarious- mostly two line rhymes about drinking, meat eating, and other forms of debauchery written mostly by Marvin of Chaos UK. Definitely impossible to be taken seriously and sure to piss off uptight folks. (Jon)
Finn Records c/o J. Lehto/ Norrgaten 43/ 703 56 Orebro/ Sweden
FORCA MACABRA Nos Tumulos Abertos 12"
Forca Macabra hail from Finland and play a very aggressive power-Thrash much like Brazilian greats like Ratos De Porao and the lesser known Armageddom. They actually copy the back cover of the LP by Armageddom (poses and typeset. perfect). Oh yeah, they like Brazilian HC so much, they sing in Portuguese. My favorite band from Finland. You need this. (Kerry)
Genet Records/ P.O. Box 447 / 9000 Gent 1/ Belgium
FOREHEADS Guilty CD
A new all female Swedish hardcore thrash band play 10 tracks of fast hardcore punk in the style of Varukers and Discharge mixed with some slower crunching thrash metal parts. The superb production really accentuate the power of their sound. Best played at maximum volume! (Jon)
Finn Records c/o J. Lehto/ Norrgaten 43/ 703 56 Orebro/ Sweden
FRAMMENTI Attento Ragazzo, stai Sanguidando! 7"
Heavy, crunching hardcore, with melodic twists, numerous tempo changes and all the thrash power you'd expect from an Italian hardcore band. While the lyrics are in Italian, their angry, political message comes through loud and clear by the two vocalists, expressive music, and evocative layouts of the cover artwork and lyric book. Over-all, an excellent production, well above and beyond the normal expectations of the DIY aesthetic and self-production. Truly on a level all their own. (Dan)
Luca Saini / Via Bagetti 12 / 10143 Torino / Italy (or) Simone Ancarani / Via Mazzini 38 / 10123 Torino / Italy.
GLORY STOMPERS Abandoned Youth LP
Manduke has a Japanese punk poster over her desk proclaiming "Back to 1985" and I can't help but think of it when I listen to this record. For the most part, this is raw thrash punk like "Short Sharp Shock" era Chaos UK, but there are also a few Oi punk songs and an occasional change to a female vocalist to keep this interesting. Lyrics are rebellious punk topics with anti-fascist, anti-authoritarian subjects and politics specific to Canada where they're from. With spikey hair and jackets, the band photos complete the album length anthem of punk rebellion. My copy came on blue vinyl and I presume your's will too. (Dan)
Disturbance Records/ P.O. Box 1886/ Main Post Office/ Edmonton, ALB T5J 2P3/ Canada
GUTS PIE EARSHOT 10"
Five songs of dischordiant noise - a veritable cacophony of soundbites, overdubs and various instruments seemingly playing different songs - with tribal-like drums and hauntingly emotional female vocals holding everything together. The lyrics deal with the frustration about not being able to communicate, emotional abuse, and human relations. This release is definitely out of the ordinary, but quite enjoyable, even in a disturbing sort of way. The packaging is pretty minimal, but lyrics (in English) are provided. (Dan)
Revolution Inside c/o Le Sabot / Breite Str. 76 / 53111 Bonn / Germany
H-100's Texas Death Match 7"
This being their third e.p. of the sort of tuneless thrash, so popular in the late 80's, and now making a strong comeback thanks to H-100's and other bands nostalgic for the sounds of Poison Idea and the like. As mentioned before, this e.p. is full on thrash with lyrics against society, or people in general, in that get drunk and fuck shit up sort of way. Nothing too original but it will make your ears ring like fuck after listening a few songs. I guess this is what you call "mixin' it up Cleveland style." This came on red vinyl and there will probably be more pretty hues available on later pressings. (Dan)
Havoc Records / P.O. Box 8585 / Minneapolis, MN 55408
HÄSSÄKKÄ 7"
16 tracks of extremely raw Finnish punk rock. Good riffs and song structures, but it suffers from weak production that I think will turn a lot of people off. But I have a soft spot for the sound of early Finnish hardcore and couldn't imagine it with a polished sound. Lyrics deal with the usual politics but with a silly twist. Not an essential record, but worth a listen if you're a fan of this style. (Jon)
Ronky Records (no address)
HIATUS 12"
This took me a bit by surprise at first listen, but after a few more listens, I can honestly say that this is a fucking modern hardcore masterpiece! Hiatus have made great strides in producing some of the most intense and uncompromising hardcore/crust music over the past six years- but on this new 12", they push to the limits of their vast musical abilities. This records has all of the power of the last LP, but with a far superior sound quality and intricate song structures. They delve into new territory as far as experimenting with new tempos and rhythms while still keeping their fast thrash sound. Lyrically, they remain on the cutting edge of political and socially consciousness. This is great. (Jon)
In Europe: Skuld Releases/ Malmsheimerstr. 14/ 71272 Renningen/ Germany (or) N. America: Profane Existence/ P.O. Box 8722/ Minneapolis, MN 55408
HOMOMILITIA Twoje Cialo- Twoj Wybor LP
Finally a full length LP from Homomilitia- one of Poland's best D.I.Y punk band. This LP is intense as fuck with dual female/ male vocals screaming over heavy thrash metal influenced punk rock. These songs are done with the right hooks that really grab you with their intensity. Excellent lyrics that are sung in Polish (with English translations provided) address homophobia, environmental destruction, human and animal rights as well as personal issues such defending one's individuality and confronting conservative thinking. The production is nice and thick with plenty of clarity and heaviness, making their two split eps sound weak in comparison. This is one of the best records I've heard in quite some time. (Jon)
Nikt Nic Nie Wie/
HUMAN GREED Para Eso Habeis Nacido 7"
Savage thrash at its best. This ep blasts six tracks of hatred filled hardcore grind. I could make several comparisons, but that would serve only to diminish how powerful this record is. The lyrics are angst-filled assaults against humankind- "all humans are scums no matter how nice the appearance/ it's the very core- see take abuse and destroy"- screamed and shouted by dual vocals in English and one in French. This was supposed to be released as a split 10" but finally (a year or more after they've split up) has seen the light of day on this ep. (Jon)
Spineless/ P.O. Box 524/ Station C/ Montreal Q.C./ H2l 4K4/ Canada.
ICONS OF FILTH Not in Her Majesty's Service 7"
The third bootleg release in a year from Icons of Filth, being an important and popular anarcho-punk band from the early 80's, with their official releases no longer available. This time, we get four songs from their demo of the same name, two songs of which were later released on their Onward Christian Soldiers album. The redeeming qualities of this vinyl bootleg version are the inclusion of two tracks only available in demo version (Your Military and Cut the Crap), the raw sound of this early recording, and the crystal clear reproduction not afforded by the various fourth and fifth generation bootleg tapes available. As with the demo, there is no lyric sheet, but this was recorded back in the day when bands chose to annunciate their message in a way where it would be understandable by the listener. I'm usually not one to go crazy over a bootleg, but this is an exception. (Dan)
No address.
INERTIAKILLS/ SEIZED split 7"
These are (were) some of the best bands to come out of the province of Quebec. Inertia Kills played (they are now disbanded) some of the best grind h-c I've heard since the early Napalm Death/Unseen Terror days. Mixed with sludge and dis-beats, it stands above the shitty noise/grind that tends to be to abundant these days. 3 songs with lyrics dealing with leisure consumption and 2 in french about personal "awakening" and what humans still have to lose to be alive. good fuckin' shit! Seized are a depressive, misanthropic, hate filled sludge attack, one song fills the whole side with lyrics about the ever so through, humanity is a plague, subject. This split is a Quebec classic! Ca donte en tabarnak! (Fred)
Doomsday Machine Records/ P.O. Box 51003/ 316 St-Joseph Est/ Quebec P.Q./ G1K 8Z7 Canada
J CHURCH Analysis, Yes, Very Nice CDEP
Having not listened to anything new from J CHURCH in quite some time, running into Lance at the Anarchist Book Fair in SF prompted me to throw this in for a listen. While their poppy, up-beat sound has never really inspired lengthy listening sessions, I've always liked J Church (and their ancient former band Cringer) in small doses, if for nothing else than their lyrical wit and simple, upbeat approach. There are six songs on this e.p. and it begins with a more refined style of the up-beat, melodic punk I remember. However, they quickly digress into some noisy punk which adds to the piss-take they're making against simple 3-chord punk bands and people who blindly follow them and their 3-chord political lyrics. All of their songs have a more than subtle political orientation, if not about the usual, overdone anarchopunk topics. Six songs that could have been a double 7", yet you don't have to flip it over after every song! (Dan)
Allied Recordings / P.O. Box 460683 / San Francisco, CA 94146-0683
JAHIMSA/ NOJBBOJS split 7"
This is one of the strangest split eps I've ever heard! A reggae band and a noisecore band- what a combination indeed! Jahimsa is the first Swedish reggae band I've heard, and I must give them credit as it's quite good- one track of all-out reggae well worth skinning up to. Nojsbojs blast 20 tracks of pure noisecore mayhem complete with over the top vocals and crazy sound effects. This make a great record to play when you're fucked off your head! (Jon)
Your Own Jailer Records/ Marmorvägen 14 B/ 752 44 Uppsala/ Sweden
JUGGLING JUGULARS Positively Fed Up! CD
Very angry, anarcho-punk from Finland, yet displaying a positive mental attitude of such bands as Seein' Red and Nations on Fire, or Minor Threat and 7 Seconds in the classical sense. Music is brutally fast and tight, with loads of originality and move rapidly from styles similar to the first classic Instigators LP to early Slayer. Two vocalists alternate the angry lyrics, which are almost all sung in perfect English, with simple, yet very expressive lyrics. There are translations provided for those few songs in Finnish, except song number three which is a blazing Treblinka cover. The cover is a fold out poster, with artwork, lyrics Wildcat comix, and expose on Alterative Action Records for the Nazi sympathizers they are. (Dan)
Hiljaiset Levyt / P.O. Box 211 / 33201 Tampere / Finland
KARAJILLO ROCK Itu... Que Has Fet Per La Victoria? e.p.
Upbeat, punk & ska from the Catalonian region of Spain. The lyrics I believe are in Catalonia, but are translated into Spanish and English, and rail against fascism and capitalism as well as an urgent call to end silence and apathy. There is also one song devoted to Catalonian independence with footnotes about the history of the struggle. Quite an interesting combination, working well with good presentation of both music and packaging. (Dan)
Soroll Distribuidora / AP 5327 / 46080 Valencia / Spain
KITO / KONSTRUCT split 7"
Kito are coming with two new songs, but they don't sound like the songs of their first 7". It's really good but it's different from the usual Kito stuff. Konstruckt is a new band from Vienna, playing fast hardcore. The quality of their recording isn't as good as the Kito stuff, but the music is really. They sound like Luzifers Mob with the vocals of Rorschach, but make your own opinion of this really good band and get the 7". (Joe)
Hammerworks Records c/o Sascha / Vorgartenstr. 196/3 / 1200 Vienna / Austria
KOSJER D s/t LP
Finding myself unprepared to review what could be classified as an "emo" release, I did some preliminary listening to some of the old standards and even a quick listen to this band's first e.p. A marked improvement over the seemingly restrained debut e.p., this new album takes on a much deeper level of musicianship, but I'm still left with the afterthought that Kosjer D sound much like Jawbreaker at their best. While music taste cannot be viewed objectively, I think you'll like this if you like the previously mentioned, but I would bet this will never be available on any format from a major label! The cover appears to be screen printed on a heavy card-stock record mailer, similar in a way to the first batch of Golgatha / Luzifers Mob LP's, but with far more creativity. (Dan)
Genet Records / P.O. box 447 / 9000 Gent 1 / Belgium
LÄRM Extreme Noise Terrorism 7"
A 12 song live e.p. of total earslaughter by the genious' who invented the concept. Ultra political lyrics to lightning fast punk, with a cynical punk rock attitude. If the live stuff (recorded in 1985) is too much to handle, wait for the CD reissue of all the studio stuff on this same label later this year. (Dan)
Kaal Records / Ravenhorst 26 / 3833 WD Leusden / The Netherlands (or) Left Wing Records / Prof. Bromstraat 4 / 6525 AV Nijmegen / The Netherlands
LED Lo Mantang CD
A full 74 minutes of bizarre synthesized madness comparable to the likes of Ministry by this German band. Heavy duty, repetitive noise and sound bites make this not something you would want to casually listen to on a warm spring day! The admittedly sparsely used vocals get in the way, but luckily, most songs are instrumentals. If you can stand techno and other types of electronic music, this might be something you would want to look into. Very hand-made packaging, even the CD itself has weird self-made drawings on it.. (Y@hoo)
Broccoli / Jorg Gneiting / Im Sand 27 / 72636 Linsenhofen / Germany
MAN AFRAID Uphill Struggle 7"
What a surprise! A truly original, political hardcore/punk band from Minneapolis that failed to get my attention until the release of this stunning debut e.p. release. Musically they play a sort of melodic, but stripped down punk style with a vocal style that are reminding me of Strawman or Leatherface. This comes with a booklet which contains the lyrics and graphics, with a clean style of typeset perfection known to Allied Recordings. A shining light in a dim field of stars. (Dan)
$3 ppd from Half-Mast Recordings / P.O. box 14118 / Minneapolis, MN 55414
MAN IS THE BASTARD D.I.Y.C.D. CD
This is a release long over due! If your not familiar with M.I.T.B. they are one of the best and most unique bands around today combing elements of punk, noise, jazz, and hardcore with great lyrics or commentaries, and their own pioneered graphic style! This CD contains 53 songs from their extensive and mostly out of print list of splits, 7"eps, and some unreleased songs, plus a booklet with their lyrics. Essential. (GABE)
Slap a ham/P.O. Box 42083/S.F. CA/94142-0843
MAN IS THE BASTARD Sum of men plus CD
If your not familiar with M.I.T.B. see above review for description. This CD contains their LP, their split LP with Bleeding Rectum, the split 8" with Born Against, the "Our Earths Blood" 7", and their split 7" with Sinking Body. Some of their best stuff in my opinion(not that any of it is bad!). (GABE)
Vermiform /
MASSKONTROLL Will You Ever Learn LP
Well, I've liked everything else this band put out, so it was no surprise that I liked this too. Nothing ground breaking, though. They play swedish influenced hardcore well, although a full album was a bit much - it'd be best to listen to this one side at a time. Lyrics about the end of civilization, nuclear war, etc. If you like their other stuff, your bound to like this. (Julie)
Mind Control / 1012 Brodie St. / Austin, TX / 78704
MICKEY AND THE BIGMOUTHS A 40 and an Attitude 7"
I expected some sort of immature, anti-PC Oi punk tirade when I put this one on the turntable, but I was both surprised by the music and the lyrics. While the first song is about getting pissed up in rioting, it seems more like a critique of this attitude, taken with a grain of salt. The next song is about political posturing without really dealing with your own fucked up shit, and the lyrics go on from there. Musically, it's fast, relentless punk rock, without any tired or cliched styles. Full of attitude yes... but in the right direction. (Dan)
$3 ppd from Laid Off Records / P.O. Box 2843 / Petaluma, CA 94953
MK-ULTRA s/t 7"
7 songs of screachy vocaled hardcore thrash, a non-stop assault full of musical changes and diversity, political lyrics expressed in a way that you haven't heard a million times before, and a explanation of project MK-ULTRA(Government usage of drugs as a form of social control). This release is relentless!!!! Let's feed the Christians to the lions. (GABE)
MK-ULTRA/P.O. Box 88902/Carol Stream, IL/60188-0902
THE MOB Let the Tribe Increase CD
While I've loved this band for years, their music has proven to be not exactly everyone's cup of tea. With a uniquely haunting sound and vocals that delve into the farthest depths of despair, they create a fitting match with the most brutally harsh and graphic political lyrics ever to come from the early 80's 'peace punk' movement. This CD contains all of their previously released, but long-out-of-print, studio recordings; the LP of the same title, the Crying Again 12" and their e.p.'s, including the infamously depressing No Doves Fly Here e.p. from Crass Records. If you've never heard this band, or are missing any of their brilliant discography, then here is your chance to get it all. The CD contains a lyric booklet which also includes biographical information and discography. There is also a double LP version of the same tracks released on Lazy Dog Records, Greece. (Dan)
GAP Recordings / P.O. Box 101 / 2400 AC Alphen a/d Rijn / The Netherlands (or) Rugger Bugger Discs / P.O. box 357 / London SE19 1AD / Britain
MUFF POTTER LP
I have a feeling that this excellent debut record by this young band from
Northern Germany will unfortunately be lost on all those that don't understand German. What a pity because this is really moving melodic German hardcore with excellent, very engaging lyrics about social and political aspects of life. Musically, this is something I like to call "Mature Euro Emo", a sound embraced by Dutch greats Union Morbide and Vernon Walters in the mid 80ies, with a similar approach being taken in Germany at the same time by EA 80 and mid period Razzia. In parts, it also almost overwhelmingly sounds like ...But Alive, but I guess that can be taken down as a compliment. With time, they will hopefully find a sound truly of their own, but for now, this is great stuff nevertheless. (Y@hoo)
Per Koro / Bismarckstr. 55 / 28203 Bremen / Germany
NATO / ROE DAE WOO split 7"
Beer City continues to find punk bands from the four corners of the world and release eps for better or for worse. NATO play a moody fast style of ska with an amusing song about falling in love. ROE DAE WOO play a similar style, although their recording is live and the levels are all over the place. If you're into eclectic punk you'll like this. (Dan)
Beer City/ P.O. Box 26035/ Milwaukee, WI 53226-0035
NATURAL CRUST / PUNK FORCE split 7"
Mediocre quality music and packaging here. Both bands barely exceed average and don't really offer anything. (Kerry)
MCR Company/ 157 Kamiagu Maizuru/ Kyoto 624/ Japan
OI POLLOI Fight Back LP
Two, out of print and impossible to find split LPs (with A.O.A. and with Betrayed) re-released together here. Some of Oi Polloi's best stuff ever from 85-86 and not to mention some of the best anarcho-punk available. Great lyrics that really piss you off and inspire action. Also included, besides the song lyrics, are loads of addresses to groups involved with Earth First!, ALF, Anarchist Black Cross and related groups. Essential anarcho-punk anthems! (Jon)
Campary Records/ Friedrichstr. 110/ 40217 Düsseldorf/ Germany
OUT COLD Permanent Twilight World CD
Having put out a few e.p. over the last few year, Boston's Out Cold explode on the world with their first full-length release. Musically, this hauls ass like mid-years Poison Idea, with a similar "fuck off" lyrical attitude. These guys have all the power you'd expect from a Boston hardcore band, yet lacking the vocalist who sounds as if he's been impaled on a hockey stick, and no tired straight edge lyrics. Let's hope these guys stick around for a few more releases, because this one is just not enough! (Dan)
Kangaroo Records / Henk Smit / Middenweg 13 / 1098 AA Amsterdam / The Netherlands
OUT OF TOUCH We don't give a fuck about religion 7"
Fuck yeah!! An early D.R.I. personal/ almost political approach at the lyrics is a nice change within itself, but let me tell you something. From the drop of the needle, this little piece of wax fucking rages on with intensity, power a little speed. Don't be fooled by other bands, this is the one!! (Kerry)
MCR Company/ 157 Kamiagu Maizuru/ Kyoto 624/ Japan
PAWN Guerrilla Intent 7"
From the Dayton Ohio area come Pawn, and deliver here four tracks of heavy, metal-influenced punk rock angry, political FIGHT BACK type lyrics. With a thick guitar sound and dual male vocals, they keep it interesting by going from really fast stuff, to slow, and to rockin' mid-paced bits. Several comparisons come to mind such as Jesus Chrust, early Destroy, and Embittered. This is a kick ass debut! (Jon)
Pawn/ P.O. Box 267/ New Carlisle, OH 45344
PITCH FARKIN DOGS cassette
Incredibly, this band seems to be together inside the Washington State Prison System! Musically it is angry, raw punk which reminds me of early 80's California classics like Aggression, Youth Brigade, TSOL, and The Dickies. The cover of this tape is hand drawn and recording quality is' as best as I can imaging possible considering the circumstances! Real DIY punk for sure! Not sure if you can order the tape from this address, but write (including a stamp for a reply). (Dan)
Bones a.k.a. Scott Riggs #725089/ D wing 2-15/ Washington State Reformatory/ P.O. Box 777/ Monroe, WA 98272
PROPAGANDHI Less Talk More Rock LP
We got this one in the mail with a note saying "this is probably the only Fat Wreck Chord you guys will ever review..." Well Chris, you may be right on that one since Fat Wreck's usually bring to my mind sappy pop punk with mush for lyrics. Well, no more as this LP clearly misses the pigeonhole by a long shot! Pop punk is definitely something I can only take in small doses, but I think this ones gonna get repeated listenings (while no one else is around to spoil my image) just to hear their hilarious approach to very serious anarchopunk and political subjects. With more lyrics than every Discharge LP combined, Propagandhi attack capitalism, fascism, corporate greed, white male supremacy, and just about everything evil under the sun, in their brilliantly worded, in your face lyrics. Inside the record are also numerous articles backing up their lyrics with contact address and other useful information. Despite reservations some may have about buying Fat Wreck Chords, a portion of this LP benefits numerous progressive causes and there is no bar codes (although it's quite easy for chain stores to apply their own as we have found out the hard way). Musically, this is about as poppy punk as NOFX or Green Day, with the only real fast hardcore song is a piss-take on acho dancers. Buy this one direct or from an independent shop if you want to avoid indirect corporate sponsorship. (Dan)
Fat Wreck Chords / P.O. box 460144 / San Francisco, CA 94146
RADICAL NOISE Unreleased stuff cassette
14 songs of angry 80's Euro-style anarcho-punk-core played perfectly. The vocals remind me of Deke from Oi Polloi. One of my favorite reviews this issue! Don't forget they come from a place where it actually still means some thing to be a punk! (Kerry)
Radical Noise / Sahraarligi sok. No:1/ 11 81080 Goztepe/ Instanbul / TURKEY
RASTA & PEACE CORPORATION / WARFARE? split LP
Two anarcho-punk bands from Italy join up for an immense collaboration of music, message and politics. The cover is a large fold-out poster, in the style pioneered by Crass, with lyrics and introductory information on one side and a poster on the other. All of the contents are in Italian, but the copy we were given includes translations of their anti-state lyrics and message. Musically, Rasta & Peace Corporation play a wide variety of styles from Ska to Reggae to fast punk rock, while Warfare? play a more refined style of powerful punk, with melodic twists and the level of variety know from bands like No Means No and False Prophets. Overall, a pretty spectacular production, but the message may be lost to most of us without the English translations. (Dan)
Bussani Muro / CP 42 / 34074 Monfalcone / Italy (or) Nuclear Sun Punk / CP 114 / 34170 Gorizia / Italy.
RIOT/CLONE Still No Government Like No Government CD
An impressive 40-song CD and 142 page book from this band who had most of their action between 1979 and 1982, playing fast and sloppy anarcho-punk anthems. This CD and book are the product of a mid-90's reformation, re-recording all of the original songs "as they were meant to sound.," plus a few new ones. With crystal clarity, the old and new are played to a fast punk tempo, mixing angry political lyrics, with sing-along chorus parts. The booklet not only contains all of the very political lyrics, but essays on ecological struggles, veganism, and a lengthy introduction to anarchism and society. The CD alone would have been a great package, but the added book really makes this one of those special, above and beyond the ordinary releases. (Dan)
Riot/Clone Records / P.O. Box 2795 / London, NW10 9AY / Britain
RIOT SQUAD The dying breed LP
One look and you're saying "wow!! look, another stuck in '82 Oi/punk band!". They do this style a little, however it falls short and has too much of a Misfits/Danzig influence lyrically and a little vocally too. Maybe you'll like this more if you like this kinda stuff. Find out for yourself. (Kerry)
Last Beat Records / 2819 Commerce / Dallas, TX / 75226
SANCTUS IUDA demo cassette
A professional quality demo tape from a Polish anarcho-punk band that appears very sincere in their convictions towards creating a better world while being critical of the negative aspects of punk. There are thirteen songs in all, with incredibly crunching and powerful punk rock, which shows both originality and an exceptional level of innovativeness to blend the music with an angry, political conviction. The lyrics are all in Polish, but the accompanying graphics hint at their political subjects against fascism, multinationals, patriarchy and in favor of taking direct action against institutions of authority and power. The fold-out cover has all of the lyrics (in Polish only unfortunately) as well as lengthy writings. Quite an impressive released to be enjoyed over and over again. (Dan)
Demonstracja Tapes / P.O. box 115 / 15-662 Bialystok 26 / Poland
SCATHA Respect, Protect Reconnect LP
From the ashes of Glasgow's finest political hardcore bands- Sedition and Disaffect- comes Scatha, and pick up right where their previous bands left off by producing some of most intense and inspiring hardcore in the D.I.Y. punk scene today. Slightly slower, but equally powerful (and even heavier) as their previous bands, Scatha churn out 10 tracks of perfectly executed hardcore with a tinge of metal. The extremely well-written political and personal lyrics are equally responsible along with the brilliant music for making this such a masterpiece. Urgent cries to reconnect with nature and respect life on earth, which come across with unmatched conviction and sincerity. The packaging it top notch Flat Earth style with a 12 page glossy lyric and graphic booklet with photos of loads of Celtic sculpture. All in all, this is a brilliant and inspirational LP! (Jon)
Flat Earth Records/ "Bradford Music?"/ P.O. Box 169/ Bradford/ BD7 1YS/ U.K.
SCRUFFY DOGS / WASSERDICHT split LP
A split LP from two active, DIY hardcore bands from Slovenia. Scruffy Dogs play an up-beat style of melodic punks, even incorporating a saxophone into most of their songs. Most of the lyrics are in Slavonian, with two exceptions, the last one being a reggae song about smoking the ganja. Wasserdicht play a more faster, more robust style of hardcore with more straight-forward, political orientated lyrics, roughly shouted in English. The mix of styles presented by these two bands, make for a diverse look into the budding Slavonian scene and make this worth checking out. (Dan)
Jay Walk Records / Tina Krasevec / Stantetova 30 / 62000 Maribor / Slovenia (or) Dejan Pozegar / Smetanova 82 / 62000 Maribor / Croatia
SEA SHEPHERD We Are Invisible 7"
Powerful hardcore from France that jumps between crustcore and emo influences to pull together a really good 7" release. Angry vocals, both male and female, rage forward with songs against authoritarian values, the right, and keeping hope for a better future through action. A booklet of lyrics (includes translations) and a cool poster also come with this. In many ways this reminds me of the quality releases as such labels as Nabate and Flat Earth. (Dan)
Kaal Records/ Left Wing (see Lärm 7")
SEEIN' RED Trefwoord Punk e.p.
Another blistering molestation of musical sensibilities, Seein' Red deliver the punk rock goods in their no-holds-barred, relentlessly fast and powerful style. While Seein' Red always have excellent, left leaning political lyrics, there are no translations provided, according to the disclaimer enclosed, because the songs deal with Dutch subjects. Even without the benefit of knowing what they're on about here, the music is excellent and I would assume the lyrics are as highly intelligent as one previous releases. The packaging on this is release follows the form of Kaal & Left Wing Records, with multi-color printing, numerous inserts and colored vinyl. We received three photos of the band, taken by Theun K, included in the review copy, but I don't know if these come with each record or not. The next release on this label is going to be a Lärm discography CD, so watch out for that as well!!! (Dan)
Jeroen Vrijhoef / Prof Bromstr. 4 / 6525 AV Nijmegen / The Netherlands (or) Marcel Palyama / Ravanhorst 26 / 3833 WD Leusden / The Netherlands
THE SHOWCASE SHOWDOWN Appetite Of Kings LP
The retro craze has hit the punk scene in full force in 1996! If you missed the Oi! punk bandwagon 10 years ago, it's back again, so you get another chance. The Showcase Showdown are one of several bands playing this Oi retro style, but perhaps these guys do it best. Like the originals, these guys play faster versions of riffs stolen from the original '77 punk bands and have the mandatory snotty vocals and sarcastic lyrics. Not that I really don't like this band- just heard it all before. (Dan)
Elevator Music/ P.O. Box 1502/ New Haven, CT 06511
SILNA WOLA cassette
This band released an amazing e.p. on Malarie Records last year, but this cassette blows even that away! Eleven songs of powerful 'crust' punk with growled vocals. From their e.p. I know this band has intelligent, political lyrics, which on this cassette are only printed in Polish, yet there is an article included in English describing their intent: "Punk is not only a musical movement. We want to make our music a weapon to fight against the system...." Damn good. (Dan)
Qrva Sistema D & T / P.O. box 13 / 76-200 Slupsk 1 / Poland
SISTEMA NERVIOSO Before The Fall cassette
This is one the best new bands I've heard in a while. Fast and intense hardcore with plenty of hooks and tempo changes- including extremely fast drilling bits, heavy mid-paced parts, haunting slow parts, and everything in between. Screaming vocals top it off with urgent socio-political lyrics. This band has a really unique and intense style. The production is exceptionally good for a demo tape. When will we see some vinyl? (Jon)
Sistema Nervioso/ Rt. 2 Box 299-S #16/ Santa Fe, NM 87505
SKITSYSTEM Profithysteri 7"
This is one of those eps that comes along every so often that you can't stop playing- I've been playing this one at least once a day for months now. Skitsystem are from Gothenburg Sweden and play that extremely heavy, tuned-down brand of hardcore in the vein of Anti Cimex, Asocial(they even do a cover of Revolt) and Disfear. They've mastered the D-beat and heavy pogo beat with harsh as fuck dual vocals that send a shrill down your spine. They tune down super low, play loads of forth chords and eerie leads that tell you they've played metal before. But this is far from generic metal- this is full-blown Swedish hardcore at it's best! (Jon)
Distortion Records/ Box 129/ 401 22 Gothenburg/ Sweden
SOUNDFISH Nur Gaskammern fehlen noch.. 7"
The 2nd 7 by this young German band, which even shows an improvement over their already impressive debut of last year. Musically, they do a powerful mix of Born Against style rage-filled hardcore and chunky crust bits thrown in for good measure. Very angry and desperate in attitude and sound, this, not surprisingly, deals with all the shit this society has stacked against us. I just wish there would be less demons singing, throw out some of those death metal vocals, guys! (Y@hoo)
Earth Beat / Postfach 5103 / 48419 Rheine / Germany
SPAZZ/ROMANTIC GORILLA LP
A match made in heaven! Spazz unleash more of their bassed out power-violence in step with all their past releases with all humorous lyrics and shaolin samples you could ever desire. Romantic Gorilla also keep in track with their past release, fast energetic hardcore with a voice that sends shivers up my spine, lyrics about various silly topics translated in English(for the most part). If you like either of these bands you won't be disappointed.(GABE)
Sound Pollution / P.O. Box 1774 2/ Covington, KY 41017
SPITE Last Orders 7"
At first listen I couldn't help but make comparisons to Ripcord.. Come to find out, Spite features two members of Ripcord as well as Beckie from Chaos UK. Spite play a fresh blend of hardcore punk with plenty of energy, emotion, thrash, and melody. Good lyrics that show a fed up attitude towards violent morons, religion and so-called freedom. Four songs of great hardcore that come across with sincerity. (Jon)
Blind Destruction Records/ Box 29, 82 Colston St./ Bristol BS1 5BB/ U.K.
SVART PARAD Sista Kriget 1984-1986 CD
This is the shit! Svart Parad are one of the classic band to come out of Sweden. Raw as fuck hard core punk. This CD is a discography containing 29 songs from various compilations and almost every songs from their 4 demo tapes. the sound quality varies but never gets mediocre, it's raw and it's how it should be. I could go on about how good this is but I wont, just get the CD or you'll never know what you're missing. Unfortunately Svart Parad disbanded in 1987, what a loss. (Fred)
Finn Record/ Jallo Lehto/ Norrgatan 43/ 70356/ ö Rebro/ Sweden.
SVART SNÖ Smock'n Roll CD
While most Swedish bands are busy stealing riffs from Discharge or early obscure Swedish punk bands, Svart Snö have been going the other direction, being more creative and more refined with each new release. While I was somewhat disappointed by the polished mechanical sound of their last CD Besser Wisser, this new release combines the very technical and original style with all the power and energy that made their first LP Nemesis Divina such an instant classic. There is even a return of the mysterious female vocalist from the first LP, for another one-song appearance. Their lyrics are shouted in Swedish, but English translations bring incite to their creative stance against over-inflated egos and plastic trendy hardcore, as well pertinent social and political issues. For the second CD in a row, they have asked us to release this on vinyl, and I sincerely wish we had the money to do so, since this band has consistently produced some of the best punk rock of recent memory! Another truly remarkable release, standing apart from the copy-cat Swedish hardcore scene. (Dan)
Beat Butchers / Gjutargatan 7 / 112 48 Stockholm / Sweden
SYSTEM ANALYSIS defend Free Speech... cassette
Angry songs played in the classic "peace punk" style with a sound that could be compared to a modern day Crass with their simple energetic style and snotty vocals style. There are no lyrics provided, but the writing on the tape covers speaks out against bigotry and violence and towards creating a society based on equality. The recording sounds like a four-track recording and the duplication seems a little muffled. Despite the technical flaws, quite a good demo of better things likely to come. (Dan)
731 Franklin / Grand Rapids, MI 49507
SYSTRAL Fever... 10"
This is one of the best new releases I've come across in a while. This band somehow manages to combine emo with grind and comes up with some thing that sounds excellent! Low growly vocals, then a higher screechy one, all over such an odd combo of music and you've got something that sounds great! Definitely no waste of vinyl here! (Julie)
Markus Haas / Bismarckstrabe 55 / 28203 Bremen / Germany
TOE-TO-TOE Threats & Facts LP
Faster than a rolling O, able to leap a capital T in a single bound.... it's the new LP from Australia's hard-punching, hardcore extravaganza TOE-TO-TOE. With tough-guy sound bites and hard guy lyrics, they stay true to form of their earlier e.p.s with another in-your-face, uppercut of hardcore power. Musically somewhere between New York straight edge from the late 80's and California punk rock, this record will kick your ass over and over again. With the fitting lyrics of personal turmoil, angst, and aggression with a level of sincerity lacking by most every other band playing this style of music. Definitely worth getting if your looking for over-the-top hardcore, but don't expect any amazing political diatribes or uplifting philosophy. (Dan)
Kangaroo Records / Henk Smit / Middenweg 13 / 1098 AA Amsterdam / The Netherlands.
URANUS Design By Disaster LP
This is a European re-issue of the double 7" on LP format. The original format sold-out here at P.E. before I had the chance to grab one, so I'll review the LP. This is a brilliant release. Full on blasts of thick, heavy hardcore that bring to mind Acme from Germany, as well as the finer moments of Born Against and Rorschach. But comparisons aside, Uranus deliver a very heavy, angst filled brand of hardcore that bleeds with intensity and emotion. The lyrics are mostly about dealing with one's personal struggles which can definitely be related to and are in no way vague. Excellent. (Jon)
Re*education/ P.O. Box 101627/ 40007 Düsseldorf/ Germany
USEFUL IDIOT / BURNT FOKKER PEPPERS split 7"
A somewhat casually assembled (not to say thrown-together) feel to this DIY release that brings together two bands with definite pop sensibilities, mixed with melodic hardcore. Useful Idiot from the UK do a good job with two melodic tunes that deal with personal politics and whose real hit potential is hindered by the rough recording. With a better production, this could be go quite far. BFP from Germany go in the same general musical direction and have one OK song and one bad one where they go much too fast for their own good and the lyrics are well-meant but kinda dumb. In all, both of them could use a better recording to make the most of their material. (Y@hoo)
Broccoli / Jorg Gneiting / Im Sand 27 / 72636 Linsenhofen / Germany
VIOLENT PAIN Feel for new age 7"
The cover looks totally metal, but don't get your hopes up too high because its not. Actually this is really diverse compared to the Japanese punk I usually hear. The 1st song has a G-Anx like intro with a little funk thrown in. From there we move into punk mode from the rock-n-rolly thing and finish out in good classic punk fashion. This'll take a few listens, but is good. (Kerry)
MCR Company/ 157 Kamiagu Maizuru/ Kyoto 624/ Japan
YOUR MOTHER One big inside joke CD
Fast, energetic geek-core complete with some really cheesy( even by my standards! ) covers. Good humor thrown together with some decently played P-rock makes this very likeable by me. The highlight (for me) of this is the "Save By The Bell" theme song cover followed by a Surf Punks cover. Saved By The Bell is and always will be one of the best shows to ever appear on television. (Kerry)
Probe Records / P.O. Box 5068 / Pleasanton, CA / 94566
ZLODZIEJE ROWEROW Cassette
Another excellent tape from this Poland, this time from the band Zlodzieje Rowerow. Musically, they have the power and intensity of the type of top-notch punk marking the Polish and Czech scenes today, sort of a fusion of punk, metal and melodic hardcore which keeps the mix quite interesting. I can only guess the lyrics are political from the few accompanying graphics as all of the lyrics are in Polish. Based on the music alone, this is an excellent release with a high production standard. (Dan)
Refuse / Robert Matusiak / P.O. Box 7 / 02-792 / Warsawa 78 / Poland
V/A Ante Su Mi Lagro Neoliberal LP
This is a nine band compilation LP documenting the current D.I.Y. political punk scene in Mexico. 19 songs by bands like Regeneracion, Causa Justa, Ninos Suburbanos, Coprofilia, Constructores Del Odio, Fanaticos Bastardos, Desobebiencia Civil, Auto Decadencia, and M.R. The sound of all of the bands is very raw and noisy hardcore punk and some in the grind style. It is packaged with a large booklet featuring lyrics and graphics by all of the highly political bands as well additional information on the punk and anarchist movement in Mexico- all written in Spanish. (Jon)
Cryptas Records c/o Cruz V. Luis/ Campo Horcon #143/ Col. Reynosa/ C.P. 02200/ Mexico D.F./ Mexico
V/A The boredom and the bullshit 7"
A 10 band English compilation featuring One by One, Voorhees( Who rule!!), and Kitchener. Overall it doesn't blow me away, but is an excellent introduction to the political punk coming out England today. Also has art from the infamous Simon! (Kerry)
Refusenik/ P.O. Box 2018 / Hove / 3N3 3AH / England
V/A Cenas Anarco Punks Vol.1 Cassette
A cassette reissue of a record of 10 Brazilian anarchist punk bands released a year ago as a cooperative effort by the Brazilian anarcho-punk movement which is now out of print. The music varies from classic punk rock to all out noise core all being played well. Highly recommended. (GABE)
International Hardcore Distribution/P.O. Box 8722/Mpls MN/55408
V/A The Core Sessions CD
A compilation of 7" length recordings from some of Australia's best political/anarcho-punk bands going today. Included are tracks from Bloodclot, Smut, Omnicide, Feral Dreams and Public Hanging. Musically varied, there is good recording quality throughout and some really fucking great songs from all the bands. Miss this one and miss out for sure. Comes with a big poster of lyrics/ graphics in true DIY style. (Dan)
Trans Alien Recordings/ P.O. Box 181/ Newtown, NSW 2042/ Australia
V/A Don't Spit On Me Vol. 2 7"
This comp has got 4 bands from the U.S. My fave being CHASM, who I reviewed a 7" by too. All solid, powerful punk ranging from your basic 80's stuff to the newer post NYHC stuff, who CLAY play pretty well. A great showing for 4 new bands who all deserve a little attention. (Kerry)
Boot to the head records ( address elsewhere)
V/A Everyday Murderers cassette
A benefit for Columbus Food Not Bombs and Project Vegetable, this cassette contains numerous (if not a little dated) tracks from Social Outcast, Godless, Disorder, Concrete Sox, Sedition, Rekt, Social Insecurity, Unhinged, Krupted Peasant Farmers, The Gr'ups, Resist and Litmus Green. It also comes with a booklet containing lyrics and comments by the band as well as information on human/animal liberation subjects. Most of the music contributed is very raw in recording, but easily enjoyable without a doubt and supporting good causes to boot! (Dan)
Unite to Destroy! 4181 Oregon Road / Celina, OH 45822
V/A Fight Back Cassette
This compilation cassette is a benefit compilation for anti-fascists organizations in Poland and features 60 minutes of some of the best anarchopunk bands from Poland today. The tracks, all professionally recorded, are from Cymeon X, Alians, Niech Bedzie, Rezim, Swiat Czarownic, Red Light, Hetrodoxy, Amen, Antihostility, Guernica Y Luno, Toxic Bonkers and Pustostator and make up quite a lengthy tape with quite a lot of variety of styles. There are lyrics provided (in Polish) as well as contact address for anti-fascist organizations in Poland. (Dan)
Demonstacja Tapes / P.O. Box 115 / 15-662 Bialystok 26 / Poland
V/A Finnish Drunk Punks Is Hippies LP
This is a bootleg out of Japan of five classic Finnish hardcore eps on one LP. Included are both eps by Mellakka (Ei and Itsenäisyyspäivä), Äpärät Häiriköt Tulee ep, Painajainen Todistusaineistoa ep, and Rutto Ilnastoitu Painjainen ep. All of these eps are great Finnish hardcore punk rock from the early- mid 80's that are music to my ears- some of the best stuff from the era. The packaging on this bootleg is exception for bootlegs- it features all of the original covers and packaging of the original eps. It's great that someone has made this stuff available again, as all of these are impossible to find and sold at collectors' prices, for the new generation of punks. (Jon)
(no address- try your local D.I.Y. distro)
V/A Heavy Hardcore Headroom CD
Years in the making, this compilation CD is a documentation of bands recorded and engineered by Bill T. Miller at Headroom studios. This disc starts out with Bill's own Kings of Feedback and continues on in an noisy soundbite-filled compilation of bands like Dissension, Hail of Rage, deformed Conscience, Drop Dead and numerous similar breakneck, powerful hardcore bands. After a while, the lengthy soundbite between tracks, become a little overwhelming and I actually fell asleep to the horrendously boring Grief song thrown in the middle of all of the swifter bands. At 74 minutes, you really get your money's worth, but all those soundbites really begin to take their toll after a while. Of course you can always make a tape of the parts you like and discard the rest. (Dan)
P.E. Far East (available from P.E. mailorder; see back cover).
V/A No Slow... All Go! CD
A pretty ambitious compilation of punk and hardcore, with one or two tracks from nearly every Minneapolis and St. Paul band around during 1995. Included are tracks from the Kung Fools, Oswald Armageddon, The Strike, Dirt Poor, The Quincy Punx, Assrash, The Murderers, The Creepers, Threadbare, Man Afraid, Code 13, Dillinger Four, Disembodied, Misery, The Salteens, Skaterbait, The Subversives, Bombsite, Scooby Don't, The Rejects, Impetus Inter, State of Fear and Hate 69. While this has infinitely more variety than any similar project from the Bay Area or elsewhere), it shows clearly the wide spectrum of styles in our local scene, not simply a 'crust core' Mecca as may be perceived from reading a certain punk zine. Most of the songs here are unreleased, hard-to-find, or are recorded here in different versions and the songs from Oswald Armageddon and Skaterbait (R.I.P.) aren't likely to be found anywhere else. There is a double LP version of this being produced as I type this, with even more bonus tracks, and in some cases even the best contributions from many bands. Since this project was conceived, another whole generation of newer bands have cropped up in the local scene, so perhaps this could become a Twin Cities tradition... (Dan)
$8 ppd from The Daggers / Box 581921 / Minneapolis, MN 55458-1921
V/A Prepared for War LP
A 3 band comp of "intense H.C." OVERCOME definitely are ! Very heavy, somewhat slow with abrasive sandpaper-ish (300 grit?) vocals. NO INNOCENT VICTIM (my fave) play the good old fashioned punk with a side order of classic NYHC. Very catchy. The third band, ClAY also do the heavy/slow thing with just a touch of metal with a little feedback, simple and short guitar leads and some double bass. Cool stuff. (Kerry)
Boot to the head records
V/A Six Weeks Omnibus 8"
A contemporary Japanese 8" sampler of the some the best bands lurking in the far east today, including tracks by the GAIA, SLIGHT SLAPPERS, CEMENT, JACK WITH KILLER, ROSE ROSE, ZONE, ULTIMO RAUSEA, TOAST, SENSELESS APOCALYPSE, and BEYOND DESCRIPTION. I don't believe their is a weak song on the comp., while TOAST and CEMENT stand out. Highly recommended! (GABE)
Six Weeks/ c/o Jeff and Athena / 2262 Knolls Hill CR. / Santa Rosa, CA / 95405
V/A Speed Freaks 7"
Okay the deal is this record is limited to 750(???), and 250 of these come with an additional one-sided 7", so you have to order 3 if you want the double 7". The bands showcased are CHARLES BRONSON, ENEMY SOIL, VIOLENTLY ILL, PHONOPHOBIA, SOILED, SECTION, and the one sided 7" has SHORT HATE TEMPER, POTATO JUSTICE, and WOUND. The music varies from complete noise core to punk rock with a majority of the bands playing ultra fast hardcore/thrash. The booklet comes with some intelligent words by the label and lyrics by some of the bands. A good release although nothing spectacular or new. (GABE)
KNOT MUSIC/P.O. Box 501/South Haven, MI/49090-0501
V/A This ain't no fucking melodic punk 7"
First off we got a heavy as fuck sludge-core/Sabbathy RINGWORM song to start off and then onto some 82 L.A. punk and onto some nooks and crannys falling somewhere in-between, with the power chords provided by the LOUDMOUTHS, TURBONEGER and WHOPPER BREATH. Overall, this ain't bad. (Kerry) send $3 to:
Probe Records / P.O. Box 5068 / Pleasanton, CA / 94566
V/A Total Insubordination 12"
A compilation of eight of among the best Japanese punk bands going today, from pretty much all styles within the scene. Included are tracks by Humpty Dumpty, Griffen, Balzac, Without Warning, SDS, LRF, Blade and Anti-Authorize. Unfortunately, there is no further information, lyrics, or even contact addresses for the bands provided, relegating this release to near meaningless status. A shame because this has some of my favorite Japanese political punk bands on it. (Dan)
MCR Company. Get a copy, if your interested, from Sound Pollution / P.O. Box 17742 Covington, KY 41017
V/A Total Insubordination 12"
BALZAC, WITHOUT WARNING, ANTI-AUTHORIZE and of course S.D.S. are good, however the other 4 bands are weak, with a couple toying with the oi sound. Only 8 songs and no insert or even contact addresses for the bands. I'm bummed on the poor quality of this release, especially from MCR. (Kerry)
MCR Company/ 157 Kamiagu Maizuru/ Kyoto 624/ Japan
V/A Uppsala Crust Compilation 7"
This release I believe was inevitable. Every issue it seems we review a great new brutal hardcore release from Uppsala Sweden which seems to be quite a thriving scene nowadays. Some of the most raw and aggressive Swedish hardcore bands are featured here. This ep has 15 tracks by Diskonto, Aparat, Harass, Nojsbojs, Times Square Preachers, Dishonest, Dismachine, Downward Spiral, Abuse and Råskit. Most of the songs are previously unreleased and all have good sound quality. The packaging is top quality as well, featuring an eight panel fold out with graphics and information on all the bands. Raging stuff! (Jon)
Your Own Jailer Records/ Marmorvägen 14 B/ 752 44 Uppsala/ Sweden
BEWARE: There is a new mailorder distribution out Los Angeles called "Anti." This new distribution is a front company for Epitaph Records. Don't be fooled. Boycott corporate greed and their attempts to monopolize the punk scene.
"Punk belongs to the punks: Not the buinessmen!" -Flux of Punk Indians
ZINES
WE DON'T REVIEW EVERY ZINE WE GET!
Each time we get our mail from the post office, there is inevitably a large quantity of zines and other printed material crammed into our P.O. Box. While it is encouraging to see such a tremendous output from the underground publishing world, there is no way possible for us to find time (or space in PE) to review everything we receive. We are making every attempt to review those we find most relevant to our anarcho-punk perspective, but there are inevitably a precious few that we will overlook or miss. If your zine is not reviewed this time, it is not because we hate you, it is more likely that we ran out of time, energy and space to get to yours. We love to get zines, so please keep sending them and maybe we'll get to yours next time around if you didn't get a review in this issue. If we receive multiple subsequent issue of a zine, we will review the most recent one received.
Some information to keep in mind when ordering zines: Whenever possible, we have listed the postage-paid price to order a sample copy from the US. Postage rates keep increasing, so if you are ordering copy from outside the US, or ordering a zine produced overseas, remember to send ample money to cover postage (as a rough rule of thumb, double the listed price for airmail postage overseas). Perhaps the best way to send money is well-concealed cash, but remember you are doing so at your own risk. Most zines editors do not have separate bank accounts for their products, so if you are going to send a check or money, it may be the best idea to leave the "pay to" line blank.
What those codes mean: The line below the title contains the following information: The first is the postage-paid price in the US when that information is provided. The second piece of information is the size code as follows:
S = Standard (roughly 8 1/2" x 11" or A4)
HS = Half Standard (roughly 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" or A5)
L = Legal (a rare size, roughly 8 1/2" x 14")
HL = Half Legal (roughly 7" x 8 1/2")
T = Tabloid (roughly 11" x 17")
Following the size is the number of pages, usually including the cover. The last piece of information is the language, only listed for non-English publications.
P.S. Send poetry zines to someone else. PE is still a poetry free environment.
Abduction #1
$1 ppd (or trade) / S / 28 pages
The "Ninja Punks" are back with a familiar-looking cover I must admit. Keeping with the theme, inside there are Ninja weapon reviews and an article called "Ninja Punks aren't Dead" as well as an attempted interview with Jawbreaker (who couldn't be reached), abductions stories, math with Rancid and other oddities. Kind of a mess really and I'm wondering why I actually read it at all! (Dan)
Tea / 1718 W. Washington Street, rear / West Bend, IN 53095
Agonizing Torment #1
? / S / 48 pages / Polish
"Hallo! Here's Mariusz 'Lulek' from Poland. I send you our fanzine called Agonizing Torment. I hope you enjoy it. I also play drums in a DIY crust core band called Disabused Independent Youth and we're going to release some records on our own label called 'Autonomy'. I would like to write something about our zine, band and label in PE zine. We're looking for all DIY crust punk xxx bands, zines, labels distributors... etc. Thanks a lot! I wish you a more crusty New Year than ever! Bye! -Lulek." Having said that, is there more I can say about these folks? Well, I should say something about the zine because it does represent a highly enthusiastic and ambitious first issue! Packed between articles on anarchism and animal liberation, action reports, and photos of DIY crust core bands, there are interviews with Disaffect, Fleas and Lice, No Oppression, Forca Macabra, Active Minds, Selfish, Toxic Bonkers and Black Kronstadt. There is quite a large amount of reading involved here, particularly if you speak Polish, and loads of graphics to keep it interesting if you can't. I'd bet they would trade you a copy of this for your own 'DIY crust core' zine, record or tape. (Dan)
Lulek / P.O. box 69 / 43-430 Skoczow / Poland
All the Answers #3
$2 / S / 76 pages
Quite a thick zine containing lengthy interviews with Down By Law, Propagandhi and Jimmy Eat World, as well as a look at Right-wing nutter Bob Larson, editorials, various scenestar's top 10 lists, an Arizona scene report, and a massive quantity of reviews. Unfortunately, a huge quantity of space is taken up by multiple full and half page ads from the usual domineering sources (4 whole pages of Epitaph, 2 1/2 pages Fat, etc...) which seem a waste of space and paper. Maybe raising the rates and limiting space would a better idea for the future. None the less, a decent effort, even if leaning more towards a near music-only zine. (Dan)
All The Answers / 207 W. Clarendon 14B / Phoenix, AZ 85013
Angry Young Woman #4
$2 ppd? / S / 20 pages
Unrelentingly angry rants against men, smokers, work, and the idea of being a perfect young lady; all written from a first-hand, irate, perspective with some serious axes to grind! Being not a woman, I could still relate to many of the tirades, as editor Gloria hits the nail square on the head (read: a kick in the groin) and justifiably so. You go girl! (Dan)
5525A Coldwater Rd. #167 / Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Arkangel For Animal Liberation #14
$5 ppd. / S / 56 pages
Arkangel is one of the most well compiled and thought out radical grass-roots animal liberation magazines I've read. Loads of information about local animal rights groups throughout the U.K., International news and events, newspaper clips on direct action, Hunt Sab news, as well as lengthy articles on the Shellfish Network, The Road To Victory (which documents several victories in the worldwide movement), and many other person opinions and in-depth reports. Arkangel is a very thorough account of the movement in the U.K. and should be read everywhere with hopes of unifying a stronger animal liberation movement worldwide. If anyone knows of any grass-roots animal rights magazines here in the states, please send them in! (Jon)
Arkangel/ BCM 9240/ London WC1N 3XX/ U.K.
Auto-Free Times #8
$3 ppd. / S / 28 pages.
A journal produced by The Fossil Fules Policy Action Institute (a non-profit corporation), this is a magazine devoted to "Revolutionary Ecology and Economics" by blasting the car culture that is so prevalent and spreading across North America and beyond. This issue includes well-documented articles on the fight against a new roads in North America, Britain, and India as well as various rants against the automobile, environmental destruction, and more. The writing is very matter of fact, with professional, magazine-type layouts, cramming in as much information as possible into this small format. They also have an organization called the Alliance for a Paving Moratorium which also produces information alerts on new road construction and works in conjunction of this magazine. Definitely worth supporting! (Dan)
F.F.P.A.I / P.O. Box 4347 / Arcata, CA 95518
Aversion #3
$2 ppd. / HS / 28 pages
Another great issue of this bold, black and white anarcho punk zine from Bradford UK. This time it features interviews with Cracked Cop Skulls, Doom and Dan from Profane Existence. Also included are regional reports from Western Australia and The Philippines as well as zine and music reviews. Short and to the point, but always includes the best bands and strong political views which makes a new issue always something to look forward to. One of the best anarcho punk zines around today! (Jon)
Chris Banks/ P.O. Box 22/ Bradford BD2 4YX/ U.K.
Awol #1
Donation / HS / 16 pages
A small zine produced by "Youth for Peace a Revolution" with a theme of removing militarism and military recruitment from schools, as well as spreading revolution through youth activism. This first issue has an interview with the creators of the Free to Fight CD/book, the band No Fraud, articles on militarism in the US and much more, craftily packed into this small zine through creative computer layouts. This project was put together by a person working on an internship with the Central Committee for Conscientious Objectors, and is worth checking out for the content, even if it sounds a little far left. (Dan)
Awol c/o CCCO 655 Sutter #514 / San Francisco, CA 94102
Bald Cactus #11
$2 ppd. (40p+SAE in UK) / HS / 28 pages
A good read from the UK that seems to be getting quite a large following if the participation in the letters section is any indication (boy, if you want to see some venomous slags against Chumbawamba, here's your chance...). In any case, there are interviews with Scum of Toytown, Mask and W.O.R.M., a fantasy tale of clobbering Nazis, reviews and other odds 'n ends. A very good action-orientated effort that reminds me of so many now-extinct UK anarchopunk zines. (Dan)
P.O. Box HP 171 / Leeds, W. Yorks LS6 1XX / Britain
Berro Interno #1
$2 / HS / 40 pages / Portuguese
From the Northeast of Brazil comes this zine from a great group of active anarchists. There are tons of articles written from a personal point of view on veganism/ animal rights, feminism, punk and more on animal rights (a whole lot actually). Also has interviews with Confusion of Tongues and Simbiose ( from Portugal). Cool. (Kerry)
Daniel/ Rua Santo Agostinho 104 / Sto. Agostinho / Salvador-BA / CEP 40255-250 / Brasil
Black Autonomy Vol. 2, No. 1
$10/6 issues / T / 16 pages
A newspaper devoted to anarchism and Black Revolution, crossing the vital gap separating two important political struggles. Inside are news and articles on Black autonomous activism and of the anarchist movement, as well as articles on anarchism vs. Marxist-Leninist organization, the racist roots of gun control, secret FISA courts and interviews with participants of the Million Man March by George Jackson. as well there are regular features continued this issue on prisoner support, a letters section and other notes on revolt and resistance. A necessary read and subscriptions encouraged. (Dan)
323 Broadway Ave. E. #914 / Seattle, WA 98102
Blacklisted 411 Vol. 3, No. 1
$5 / HS / 60 pages
Billed as "The Official Hackers Magazine," I was first exposed to this quintessential computer user's guide a few issues back and now they've approached us about distribution. Face it, computer technology is quickly creeping into our daily lives, causing a massive information gap, violations of our privacy, and not to mention consumption of copious quantities of Ibuprofin as we're forced more and more to sit in front of the fucking things each day, be it at work or home. This quarterly journal not only helps you keep updated on the latest advances in home computing, it also gives you an essential tool to help turn this technology around into your own advantage. While most of the stuff inside will be over the head of the beginning computer user, this zine lends tons of practical information on all levels, especially for the would be "hacker." This issue contains a lot of 'techie" stuff, such as carrier codes and common hacker abbreviations, there are also geographical listings of BBS number and other features which are continued on a regular basis. There are also articles on such topics as getting busted, the IRS as well as news and loads of helpful hints. It's time to step into the world of cyberspace and start to take it back! (Dan)
P.O. Box 2506 / Cypress, CA 90630
Catch 22 Phanzine #5
$1 ppd. / HS / 32 pages
An interesting little zine, brimful of potentially subversive information like scamming the Postal Service, making bombs, shoplifting, computer hacking and spying on your neighbors. There are interviews with a former Pennsylvania State prisoner and a spray paint 'bomber', as well as articles on the Micro$oft Corporation, computer viruses, Libertarian politics (ho-hum), slacking off and more. A veritable wellspring of information, yet not exactly the kind of thing you want sitting on your coffee table when the odd FBI agent or Postal Inspector kicks down your front door! (Dan)
4915 Woodbury Dr. / Erie, PA 16510-6413
Character Builder #3
$3 ppd? / S / 50 pages
Craig O'Hara certainly won't make the Punk Rock Hall of Fame for his band Eight Ball, but quite possibly for his book The Philosophy of Punk: More than Noise... In any case, Craig is back again here with the third issue of his zine Character Builder. Seemingly a combination of the need for expressions and release of angst, the output appears to be the product of a midnight Kinko's raid; printed on expensive colored paper, transparency films, and spiral bound. The content is a rather personal view of the world, expressions of outrage, and creative ideas towards making changes, both on the personal and social level. There are diatribes against work, patriarchy, and homophobia, with interactive means for the reader to become participant, i.e. stickers, postcard, poster included. A very eclectic and expressive production indeed. (Dan)
1317 Grant Ave. #516 / San Francisco, CA 94133
Comocaca! #8
? / HS / 24 pages / Italian
An Italian zine with the main focus as being reviews of all kinds of DIY music and zines, covering a wide range of musical style, but with a seemingly political focus. Political graphics are scattered throughout with a few witty ones reading, "Fuck Columbus: Rodney King discovered America," and, "My Heros Have Always Killed Cowboys." There is also a small news section, mainly devoted to new releases by various bands. I discovered a letter to PE tucked away within the pages while reading these, say they do a distro... go figure! If you want to brush up on your Italian, have some Lire to burn, or just want to know what's hot in Italy, write to these folx! (Dan)
C/o Roland Chiocchetti / C.P. 1409 / 50121 Firenze 7 / Italy
Con(tra)science #5
$2 ppd. / HL / 40 pages
An extremely well-produced punk zine, loaded with intelligent political articles, backed up with footnotes and relative supporting information. Taking a different path from the previous issue, this time there are no band interviews, but there are discussions with Craig O'Hara, author of The Philosophy of Punk: More than Noise, (a large gratuity was paid to PE for that plug) and social artist/propagandist Piorty Szyhalski. However, the strength of Con(tra)science lies in the articles, mainly on topics of American domestic repression, the lies of American history as taught in schools, "Why Thanksgiving Sucks", the recent DIY venue project Studio of the Stars in Minneapolis, and more. All of the above are well-written and most contain documentation for further investigatory sources, yet steer away from ambiguous claims of subjectivity with the disclaimer "Truth is relative, be skeptical. My words are not fact, but attempts to get closer to the truth." Very clean, yet graphically interesting layout, add to create one of best punk/hardcore zines around, even without music coverage. (Dan)
P.O. Box 8344 / Minneapolis, MN 55408-0334
Counter Information #44
free with I.R.C. / S / 4 pages
A long-running anarchist news sheet produced in Scotland, but with a very international scope of coverage. The main focus this issue is on the massive worker's strikes in France at the end of last year. As well, there are many more articles current radical news, political prisoner solidarity and support updates, and more. Always worth getting and reprints are available for a stamp from PE. (Dan)
C.I. c/o Transmission / 28 King Street / Glasgow G1 5QP / Scotland
Deaf by Punk #8
$2 ppd. / HS / 8 pages
This is my first time ever seeing this zine and I think its really a good looking zine. Unfortunately there are only 8 pages, which makes the space rather limited. This issue includes an interview with the great Polish band Homomilitia and with the Japanese noisecore band "Senseless Apocalypse". Also included are a few reviews and other little tidbits. Not bad. (Kerry)
DBP / C/O Piipponen/ Hameentie 23 A 7 / 00500 Helsinki/ Finland
Deaf by Punk #10
$2 ppd. / HS / 8 pages
This issue has got a cool interview with Japanese crusties Battle of Disarm, a really great band. Also, of course, we got the usual review stuff, a nice local gig directory and some news about some socialist group ( I don't know about that one). Overall, this zine is a good short read. (Kerry)
Deaf by Punk # 11
$2 ppd. / HS/ 12 pages
We have got 4 pages more here on this issue. We have an interview with the drunk Finnish punks "Tuomo and the Pythons" and another with a person named Kalstu, who makes his own comic zine about a crazy punk rock duck (I think). The usuals are all here too. (Kerry)
Diplomatic Immunity #5
$1 ppd? / HS / 32 pages
Young punks with attitude! A kick in the ass of corporate punk rock by the very 'kids' they target! Mostly made up of short stories, and rants, this zine is packed full of youthful anger and in-your-face attitude. Among such features as "Fukt Existence" and various opinion pieces, there is a lengthy review of Emma Goldman's classic Vision on Fire as well as a few music and zine reviews where they're not afraid to say what they really feel. Keep it up! (Dan)
P.O. Box 720 / Leona Valley, CA 93551
Dwgsht #6
$2 ppd. / S / 40 pages
It's a shame these days that for a zine to break even, it has to be dominated by ads from the same labels who dominate the punk music 'industry.' Besides the continued intrusion of annoying half-page ads, there is quite a lot worth checking out in this intelligently written, deep digging zine the main focus being the interviews with Man Afraid and Propgandhi as well as a look at Upton Sinclair and the upcoming '96 election. The views expressed are well presented, even whilst I can find reasons for disagreement, and are worth a valid consideration. Good, clean yet still interesting, layout and presentation make this one stand out amongst a the host of newer punk zines out there. Definitely one worth checking out and supporting as an up-and-coming standard. (Dan)
P.O. Box 2819 / Champaign, IL 61825-2819
El Clandenstino # 3
$2 / HS / 24 pages / Spanish
This is a political/Music zine containing interviews with Mano Negra (France), Basura Formal (Venezuela) and also with reports on bands and news of other countries ( mostly Puerto Rico). Other various things make this a good one. (Kerry)
C/O Apdo. Postal 145 / Barquisimeto- Edo. Lara / Venezuela
Ex Digest #19
The Flex's Digest has changed its name, because of some troubles, but it's the old crew. In this issue is an interview with some punks about squatting, a never ending interview with KONSTRUKT and interviews with the SWOONS and BOOT DOWN THE DOOR. Also an article about women in HIP HOP, record and gig reviews and the newest news from all over the world. (Joe)
Ex Digest/ P.O. Box 703/ 1061 Vienna/ Austria
Exhaust #7
$1 ppd? / HS / 12 pages
A short anarchopunk zine with articles against the Right, lynching in Amerikka, an interview with Hilt, and a bunch of reviews. the layouts is a little eratic, but numerous graphics keep it interesting. These guys also run a distribution, and judging from what they order from PE, they probably have a lot of good stuff! (Dan)
8000 W. Tidwell #1814 / Houston, TX 77040
Factsheet Five #59
$6 ppd. / S / 156 pages
This is the first issue of "the definitive guide to the zine revolution" I've seen since the old days when it was constructed and edited by Mike Gunderloy. Under the new stewardship of R.S. Friedman, FS5 takes on an entirely new look and user-friendliness, with an actual effort at interesting and sensible layouts and lots of information to help would-be zine editors publish and distribute their efforts. Of course, the bulk of this magazine is still massive quantities of reviews, reviews, reviews! Mostly zines are covered, broken down by various categories, as well as some music and books, although they don't make an effort to review every submission in the later categories. This issue contains special features on zine construction without going bankrupt, distribution without selling out, and pirate radio zines. If you're interested in the world of zines and are looking for a place to begin, this could be an invaluable tool to getting started. On the other hand, you can also save your six bucks and get a couple copies of Heart Attack or Maximum RocknRoll, which are packed with zine reviews as well. Of course, if you put out a zine, it would be a good idea to at least send them a copy for review, especially if your looking for subscribers or loads of junk mail. (Dan)
Factsheet Five Subscriptions / P.O. Box 170099 / San Francisco, CA 94117-0099
Fester Amerika #2
$1 ppd. / HS / 28+ pages
Anarchopunk is alive and taking hold in Lincoln, Nebraska and this zine is a good example of enthusiastic support for antiauthoritarian politics. There are interviews with Dead Silence and Autonomy as well as articles on militant pro-choice, men and rape, and an interview with a soldier held in the stockade at Ft. Leavenworth. There are also graphics, short articles, and even Fester America #2.5 mini zine included. A little sloppy but full of attitude. (Dan)
F.A.C. / P.O. Box 22053 / Lincoln, NE 68542
First Class Rank #4
$1 / S / 18 pages
A rather simple punk zine, seemingly produced more out of sheer boredom more than anything else, with many small articles and opinions relating to various aspects of punk and life. There is an interview with the band Setback, as well as some short fiction, a horoscope and more entertaining bits and pieces. No serious political tirades to be found here-but more than a few laughs. (Dan)
C/o Diesel / 212 Rodaline Ave. / Lewes, DE 19858
Free Society Vol. 4, No. 2
$2 ppd / S / 40 pages
For reasons unexplained (and unfathomable by this reviewer), the Free Society Collective has moved from Minneapolis to New York City, and this is their first issue completed in entirety in their new location. Free Society, the magazine, is a product of the collectives on-going commitment to deep ecology and anarchism, with this issue having a special focus on the social, historical, and radical background of ecological themes. In support of Mumia Abu Jamal, there is a speech translated from Jacques Derrida, as well as information on further resistance towards freeing Mumia, and a background on the MOVE organization. As well, there is a lengthy article on the politics of breast cancer and genetic engineering, further supported on the theme of toxic environment with an interview of Wade Collins on the medical industry and its effects on workers and women, as well as a review of the film Safe, which as about a woman suffering from Environmental Illness. There is also an article tracking the group's evolutionary decent of the eco-anarchist movement since the late 80's, and other supplementary articles, news and reviews. The writings contained herein are, for the most part, very academic and dryly intellectual, yet contain a healthy, idealistic attitude. Layouts are smart, with the occasional graphic throughout to break monotony. I wouldn't recommend this to someone just introduced to the ideas of anarchism, but definitely get this for a deeper understanding of current social and ecological issues. (Dan)
P.O. Box 35 / Stuyvesant Stn. / New York, NY 10009
Gnaw #3
$1 + 2 stamps / HS / 40 pages
Inside are articles on anarchism and Mumia Abu Jamal, as well as interview with Anjie's Fault, plus fiction, comics and (gasp!) poetry. Quite a bit to read and the articles are well-written and convincing. (Dan)
Eric Battaglia / 2344 S. 11th Ave. / North Riverside, IL 60546
Godless # 1
$2 ppd / HS / 12 pages
Finally an English language zine from Poland to let everybody in on what's happening in their scene. Not so much a zine as a good looking newsletter. This has interviews with bands (Silna Wola and Ewa Braun) as well as information on whats going on in the different cities. Musically, this is mostly geared towards crust, although the author describes himself as a revolutionary socialist (Huh?). Nevertheless, this has great potential to be that vital link between the Polish DIY scene and the rest of the world, so it would be great to see as many people supporting this project as it depends on foreign interest to keep going! (Y@hoo)
Krzysztof Jablonski / Grzybowa 3-4 / 72-010 Police / Poland
Guinea Pig Zero Vol. 1, No. 1
$2 ppd. / HS / 36 pages
A journal devoted to the practise of pimping one's self for scientific research, a pretty common past time for cash-strapped young people these days. The historical overview of what they call "guinea piggin'" show it was not always the realm of poor students, but subjects were often unwitting participants, from orphans to guinea pigs, to political prisoners. There are other articles on scientific experiments on humans and animals, cover-ups, and more. This zine has a pretty narrow focus on subject matter, but can be useful to all, with home remedies and other surpressed information. This is not a totally dry read either, as the creators keep a certain sense of humor throughout. (Dan)
4728 Spruce Street, Cage 3369 / Philadelphia, PA 19139
Gutterfag #1
? / S / 18 pages
"We're fucked up fags 'n we don't know what we a doing..." A photocopied mess of Queer punk, alcohol, drugs and chaos; in both content and layout. Check it out if this sounds interesting to you. (Dan)
Junker / 72 Sarah Ln. / Middle Island, NY 10940
Heart Attack #9
$1 ppd. / S / 64 pages
Nemesis Divina to PE (ha!) is here again with another issue exposing the virtues of the DIY hardcore scene, direct action, and the healthy, vegan, straight-edge lifestyle. Not as narrowly 'P.C.' as my description may sound, this issue does have an excellent interview with imprisoned eco/human liberation activist Rod Coronodo as the main feature. As well, this issue also has the usually large amounts of reviews, columns, letters and the results of the 1995 readers' poll. As usual, a worthwhile addition to building a stronger, independent, 'Do-It-Yourself' punk and hardcore movement. (Dan)
P.O. Box 848 / Goleta, CA 93116
Immune? #1
trade? / HS / 28 pages
Anarchism, veganism, self-defense against rape/attack, and loads more information inside. Much of the content is hand-written and with some pages printed upside down it is a little hard to follow at times. Even so, lots of energy was obviously involved creating this info-packed zine. (Dan)
706 Revel Crs. / Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2G1 / Canada
In Medias Res #6
?? / S / 8 pages
There is tons of information stuffed into this anarchopunk zine from Croatia including interviews with the bands Total Control, Forca Macabra, and Noise Slaughter, as well as an article on police repression of a punk gig in Croatia, heaps of reviews and more. Totally anger-filled and political, with numerous contact addresses and information. Definitely worth getting a copy! (Dan)
Marko Strpic / Rakusina 3 / 10000 Zagreb / Croatia
Industrial Worker #1589
$1.25 ppd. / T / 12 pages
The newspaper published continually for 93 years by the Industrial Workers of the World, a long-running anarcho-syndicalist trade union struggling to keep relevant in a society where class consciousness and workers solidarity has almost lost its meaning. Inside this issue are articles on recent strikes by Canadian workers, unions and their role in the decline of workers' power, as well as other news and information pertinent to workers' struggles and news from around the IWW itself. An important source of labor news from an anarchist perspective, although perhaps too narrowly so in an era of a multi-faceted, diverse anarchist movement. (Dan)
103 W. Michigan Avenue / Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Insecurity #1
$2 ppd./ S / 22 pages
This is a new anarcho-punk zine from Connecticut containing short and to the point interviews with Extinction Of Mankind, Code 13, Masskontroll, and Inkisicao. It also has anti-McDonalds info and record reviews. Good layouts and attitude- keep it up Matt! (Jon)
Matt / 256 Garfield Ave. / Bridgeport, CT 06606
Interbang #3
$2 ppd. / S / 40 pages
A pretty decent newish punk zine, containing interviews with The Queers and Lunkhead, a history (or harbinger of downfall) of Epitaph Records and a "Punk History" section featuring the Subhumans. As well, there are columns, a NE Ohio scene report, reviews and more. Two color printing throughout helps keep this from being another run-of-the mill newsprint zine. (Dan)
C/o Ben Brucato / 990 Thomas Dr. / Ashland, OH 44805
It's Alive #2
2 IRC's / HS / 44 pages
A hardcore zine from Holland, mainly focusing on the local scene, but with some international coverage as well There are interviews with Right Direction, Sheer Terror, Yawp, Violation of Trust, Boots & Braces, The Crivits and Braindance. There are also sections of live reviews, some news as well as numerous fanzine and music reviews. It's mostly music-orientated if that's your thing. (Dan)
Roel's Alive / Kapelaniestraat 27 / 6031 BW Nederweert / The Netherlands
Jersey Anarchist #32
SASE / HL / 4 pages
A small, four page broadsheet printed monthly by the Paterson Anarchist Collective and New Jersey Anarchist Black Cross, produced in a similar format to the old Ecomedia Bulletins from Toronto. The main focus this issue is about the police raid on the Jacksonville (FL) ABC and Youth Action Movement (see P-R section this issue), as well as political prisoner support information and a list of regional contact in the New York / New Jersey area. (Dan)
P.A.C. / Box 8532 / Paterson, NJ 07508-8532
Libertad O Muerte # 1
$2 ppd / HS / 20 pages / German
An anarcho punk zine from Austria that contains much more references to historical anarchism than I've ever seen in a punk zine like this. Fortunately, this doesnt plunge into the depths of lifeless dogma and manages to keep a good attitude throughout. The main content are columns, news and record and zine reviews. (Y@hoo)
LOM / Postlagernd / A-6024 Innsbruck / Austria
Mac Pariadka #44
? / HS / 88 pages / Polish
Once again, we have received numerous issues of this Polish, monthly anarchist news magazine, the most recent being issue #44. Much of the content is devoted to news related to the anarchist movement in Poland, as well as theoretical articles on anarchist politics. In the center of this magazine, there is also an anarcho-punk section, called Zolte Papiery, which make up about 1/3 of the content. In this section there is information about the Polish DIY punk scene, interviews (this issue has The Ukrainians and Misery), and music and live reviews. This appears to be a quality publication, if you can overcome the language barrier presented to most of us. (Dan)
P.O. Box 67 / 81-806 Sopot 6 / Poland. To contact or send review materials directly to Zolte Papiery, write to: Dodatek Mlodziezowy / P.O. Box 13 / 81-806 Sopot / Poland
Narcanti # 2 & # 3
$2 ppd / HS / 20 pages / German
The first I have seen of this nice little Bavarian DIY hardcore and punk zine. Gets some extra points for giving coverage to their local scene instead of chasing trendy fads elsewhere (admittedly a brave decision when you're living in a cultural wasteland like Bavaria!). There's interviews, local music and political news as well as a few cool political columns. Good to see that things are happening beyond the big cities, too! (Y@hoo)
Peter Putz / Erlenstr. 14 / 84453 Muhldorf / Germany
No Doi #8
$1 ppd. / HS / 40 pages
A pocket-sized punk zine with a strong, feminine perspective. There are numerous small personal stories as well articles against police brutality, corporate feminine hygiene products and an XXY tour diary. there are also reviews and some short comics. Kind of sloppy, but not so much that it's still readable. (Dan)
P.O. Box 80111 / Lincoln, NE 68501-0111
Our Struggle #4
? / S / 48 pages / part in German
A very thorough, political punk/hardcore zine from Austria, which is part in English, part in German. Unfortunately for me, the English parts seemed the most uninteresting, basically being the interviews (No Oppression, Profane Existence, Doughnuts, and No Violence), shorter opinion pieces, as well as the information on Animal Liberation; an important subject, yet written about so much in English language zines already. In fear of not fully expressing themselves, the authors of many of the more informative articles, choose to write in German to be more fully expressive in their native language. Too bad for those of us who don't speak German worth a fuck! Over-all, there is a very action-orientated, well thought out, and intelligent level of writing throughout. A mix of music, politics and staight-edge (no drugs... not Hari Krishna bullshit) philosophy throughout. (Dan)
C/o Tom Lang / Pidingweg 33 / A-5020 Salzburg / Austria
Persons Unknown # 2
$3 ppd / HS / 60 pages
Finally the second issue of this very promising DIY zine from Luxembourg. Having male/female editors makes for varied and interesting content that shows intelligence and critical thought throughout. There's interviews with Oi Polloi and Rotzbouwen as well as thought-provoking articles/opinions on animal affection, body norms, domestic violence and loads of other stuff. The layout is also exceptionally good and I really appreciated all the little jokes hidden in the artwork! A dedicated effort!
(Y@hoo)
Michele Marnach / 60 rue de la liberation / 4210 Esch-Alzette / Luxembourg
Point of Interest #13
$1 ppd. / HS / 20 pages
Another packed edition of this small yet attitude packed zine from the Seattle area. Included this issue are articles about police repression of the punk scene in the Seattle area (a major conflict of the past few years) as well as an interview with Cease and Desist, photos, graphics, columns and more. (Dan)
1004 N. 32nd St. / Renton, WA 98056
The Probe # 5
$4 / S / 98 pages
Well, everyone at Extreme Noise seems to really like this zine because of all the naked bodies (not everyone at Extreme Noise likes this!- ed.). Well, this kinda lays somewhere in the Flipside neighborhood, but these guys put out better records. A sense of humor is needed with this one. We got a great looking computer geek layout with lots of zine reviews and interviews with Your Mother, AK Press and a few others. He's got 17 pages of girl reviews (Each girlfriend). This zine is nice to look at for the variety factor alone. (Kerry)
The Probe (Same as the record label)
Punto De Vista Positivo #1
$2.50 ppd(world)/ HS / 28 pages Portuguese
Here we have an anarcho-straight edge zine from Sao Paulo, Brasil. Even if you don't speak Portuguese, this zine is cool because of the nice clean layout and the graphics are good. Included are interviews with Active Youth(Brasil), Blindfold(Belgium) and Dumblindeaf(Brasil). Also cool anti-McDonalds info, veganism info and other anarchist opinions and just a little straight stuff, but manages to stray away from the preachy side of things. (Kerry)
C/O Rodrigo / C.P. 501 / CEP 01059-970- Ag. Central / Sao Paulo- SP / Brasil
Reasonable Martians #6 / Sampo #5 split zine
$2 ppd. / S / 32 pages
A team effort by two punk women from Wilmington, NC, who each in turn have their own zines. Much of the content is personal observations, stories and assorted rants, raves, collages, reviews and the likes, assembled with a chaotic sense for layouts. Future plans are for a video zine of people and ideas... it will be interesting to see what happens! (Dan)
Reasonable Martians / 206 N. Hampton Rd. / Wilmington, NC 28409 (or) Sampo / 57 Brittain Dr. / Lot 43 Faircrest / Wilmington, NC 28409
Riotous Assembly #1
2 stamps ($1 overseas) / T / 8 pages
This is basically a free zine, in many ways following a similar format as Slug & Lettuce, with a large review section of punk music and zines, as well as classified. However, there is also an interview with State of Fear and a news section on the front page devoted to anarchist and punk items, as well as a list of music and zines available mail order from Riotous Assembly Distribution. A decent first effort to say the least! (Dan)
P.O. Box 20302 / Boulder, CO 80308
Savage State #3
$2 / HS / 36 pages
Another in-your-face, action-orientated anarcho-punk zine; this time from New Zealand. I the last issue of PE I made some smart-assed comment about the lack of good zines these days. Perhaps there are some worthy zines out there and they just don't send 'em to us!? In any case, this zine has a special focus in class war and class struggle anarchism, as well as hand action tips, an ALF action directory, and information on AIDS, Gellette and vivisection, the new NZ fascist party (familiarly named) the National Front, and more. There are also sections devoted to letters, opinions, reviews and a small diary of the brief tour NZ of Spitboy. Lively opinions, bold attitude and smart writing throughout, with highly readable layout and interesting graphics an added bonus. (Dan)
Savage State / Social Reject Distribution / P.O. Box 6387 / Tearo, Wellington / New Zealand.
Sekhmet #10
$2 ppd / S / 16 pages
This is an in-your-face, attitude-filled magazine produced by the Anarcha-Feminist Federation of Aotearoa (new Zealand). Inside is a reprint of Molly Tov's controversial "A Message to 'Anarchist' Men, and Then Some" from PE (#12 I think) as well as numerous pro-feminist and pro-Queer articles including a hilarious article and photo spread on gay marriages (from an anarchist perspective of course), as well as an important article on eating disorders, the freak baby boom, pro-choice action and veganism. Definitely an important voice from a section of the anarchist movement so long denied. (Dan)
WETA Collective c/o P.O. Box 22-301 / High Street / Christchurch / New Zealand (sandi@ch.planet.gen.nz) or Katipo Collective c/o P.O. Box 14-156 / Kilnirnie / Wellington / New Zealand (aaa@nubm.wgtn.planet.co.nz)
Shoddy Goods #5/6
3 stamps ppd. / HS / 56 pages
A double feature from this up-and-coming punk zine from Cow Town (that's Midwest for St. Louis). Inside are two wonderfully humorous (in a sad sort of way) stories of punk rock failure. The first is of one of the writier's failed attempts to travel out to the East Coast by using a rather unscrupulous drive away service and ends up getting the runaround Chicago. The other is the story of Steve Gioia, who attempted to set up a legal, all ages club in St. Louis, only to be fucked over by local antique dealers and a complacent city alderman. No shit eh? Next time just do it and fuck their legalities! There are also opinion columns, local gig reviews, classified ads, and angry young graphics throughout. Who said there's no such thing as a bargain anymore! (Dan)
P.O. Box 160150 / St. Louis, MO 63116
Sick of Stupidity #2
$2 ppd / HS / 48 pages / German
To my knowledge, the only German crust zine. Good thing that this is done by an intelligent and critical person which means that its fueled by political awareness, honest dedication and love for a musical style that can still get you through all the shit this sick society throws your way (instead of being into it because you cant find anything better to do with your life!). As for the content, it has interviews with Masskontroll, MVD and Earth First! activists as well as some music reviews. But the core of this zine are the accounts of the editors various trips to DIY festivals in Europe in the last year which prove to be highly enjoyable because of the cool writing style. One of the best in Germany right now! (Y@hoo)
Arne Oster / Rosen 26 / 40479 Dusseldorf / Germany
Silent Majority #1
$1 ppd? / S / 36 pages
A startling piece of insight into the new generation of punks, reared on Rancid, Total Chaos and warped sense of punk history from Exploited CD re-issues! This first issue has rudimentary articles on anarchism, (anti) straight edge attitude, an interview with Shawn Smash from Total Chaos, and record reviews (many of which are over a decade old). This is going in the right direction and more contact with other zines and people will expose these folx to the real world of underground, DIY punk. The computer / word processor typesetting reminds me of my first attempt at a zine. Deja Vu. (Dan)
Preston B. / 346 E. 2nd St. / Salida, CO 81201
Slug & Lettuce #43
.55¢ / T / 20 pages
A special 10 year anniversary issue and is by far the biggest issue of S&L that I've ever seen. Another issue with no band photos, this issue has a focus on artwork from a variety of artists from all over. There's loads of the usual classifieds, zine and music reviews and various columns. There's also a lengthy tour diary from Christine's travels around the U.S. last fall. Slug & Lettuce has become one of the most consistent mainstays of the D.I.Y. punk scene and hopefully it will continue for another 10 years. (Jon)
Christine Boarts/ P.O. Box 2067/ Peter Stuy. Sta./ NY, NY 10009-8914 (after June: P.O. Box 492/ West Chester, PA 19381
Solidarity #3
?? / HL / 32 pages
An article filled anarchopunk zine from Orlando, FL with topics ranging from anarchism to Mumia Abu Jamal to Food Not Bombs. There is also an interesting story about the Klan protesting the Holocaust Resources Center in Florida(!!!) and an interview with Citizen Fish. Quite good really. (Dan)
P.O. Box 720418 / Orlando, FL 32872
Sonidos, Ruidos E Ideas # 5
$3 ppd./ HS / 62 pages Portugese
Hailing from Brasil, this zine doesn't offer much for the average P.E. reader who is much too lazy to actually learn another language or communicate with South American punks. But anyway, for those who wish to know, this zine is chock full of interviews, reviews and other tidbits of info you might find useful. The layout is one of the best I've seen of zines from S.A. If you read Portuguese or even Spanish, go ahead and buy something besides the latest by Chaos U.K. (Kerry)
C/O Jean Marim/ C.P. 55069 / Santo Amaro-SP/ CEP 04799-970/ Brasil
Steady Diet #7
$3ppd? / S / 28 pages
Quite an eclectic mix of punk, noise, grind, hardcore and death metal is covered within these pages, being made up of lengthy interviews with the likes of Chris Dodge (from Slap-a-Ham Records), Drop Dead, Voorhees, Stalingrad, Killdozer and a fuckload more, as well as a massive review section of easily 200 music titles and a demo tape contacts lists. The layouts are all computerized and in a very non-conformist manner, making it both interesting and hard to read at the same time! for the most part, this is a music zine, covering the mentioned genres of the first sentence of this review, so there is quite a large spectrum covered, quite thoroughly at that! The cover is printed in two colors, and this a decent sized production, so I had to guess the postage paid price for you to get your own copy. They also have a mailorder list so ask for it while you're at it! (Dan)
Satpal Kalsi / 4 Mainstone Close / Reditch B98 0PP / Britain
Sty Zine #22
$2 ppd / HS / 48 pages + Shoot the Stars review zine
This zine reads back to front. An annoying gimmick or revenge of a left-handed zine editor? Inside there is an interview with David Hayes of Too Many Record label fame, an account of the Atlanta fest, as well as short opinions, graphics, comics, live photos and personal observations. There is also an insert review zine, which you can pull out and throw away without ruining the rest of the zine if you so desire... but I wouldn't. It's mostly a personal zine, but I found it worth the time invested reading it all. The editor's not going to be around much for the first half of 1996, ordering from Wow Cool is recommended. (Dan)
Letters, reviews, submission, to P.O. Box 2192 / Bloomington, IN 47402. Order from Wow Cool / 48 Shattuck Sq. #149 / Berkeley, CA 94704
Thru #2
$1 / HS / 32 pages
A new and enthusiastic anarchopunk zine from Southern California. Inside are small articles on anarchism, state repressions, nationalism, cops and news about a student takeover of the University of Mexico City. There is also an interview with the band Nonsense, personal opinions and reviews. Not outstanding, but not to be ignored either. (Dan)
9852 Rangeview Dr. / Santa Anna, CA 92705
Toinen Vaihtoehto #76
"swap is OK" / HS / 36 pages / Finnish
A political-leaning punk zine from Finland, mostly made up of reviews and small articles and is a mainstay of the Finnish scene. Inside this issue there is also an interview with the always intelligent Seein' Red and other articles whose Finnish content is lost on me. (Dan)
Box 1 / 65200 Vaasa / Finland
Thousand Year War #7
$1 ppd / 4 1/2" x 5 1/2" / 28 pages
A small punk zine with short observations on political subjects, an interview with the schmucks at CFNY radio, and some anti-homophobe action. Short and sweet. (Dan)
P.O. Box 333, Stn. E / Toronto, Ont. M6H 4E3 / Canada
Turning the Tide Vol. 9, No. 1
$15/year / S / 56 Pages
This a "Journal of Anti-Racist Activism Research & Education" produced by the People Against Racial Terror (PART) and is an essential voice against racism, imperialism and the creeping fascism of Right Wing politics. This issue features a huge article of the Right's pointman Pat Buchanon, exposing him as the would-be fascist he is. There are also numerous articles against the Justice (prison) system and in support of various political prisoners and anti-racist social causes, with a confrontational, action-orientated stance. An essential voice against Right-Wing terror and an immediate subscription is urged. Free subscriptions are available to prisoners upon request (Dan)
P.A.R.T. / P.O. Box 1990 / Burbank, CA 91507-1990
Underground #4
$3 ppd / S / 56 pages
This is the magazine produced by the North American supporters group of the Animal Liberation Front, taking direct action towards bringing an end to animal torture and exploitation of animals for economic gains and human consumption. Not preaching at all, this magazine goes straight to the point with news of the animal liberation movement, a diary of international ALF actions and updates on prisoners being held for taking direct action against animal exploitation. This is only one way in which the supporters group helps animal liberation activism, and you can support 'em by subscribing today! They have a sliding $20-30 per year, or else you can check out a single copy first to see what it's all about. (Dan)
NA-ALFSG / Box 69597 / 5845 Yong St. / Willowdale, Ontario M2M 4K3 / Canada
War Crime #1
$1 ppd / HS / 32 pages
A new anarcho-punk zine from Tucson, AZ; future site of PE's Winter Palace. This issue has mail/telephone interviews with Code 13 and Inquisition as well as a partial reprint of a Zapatista communique by Subcamandante Marcos, reviews of G. Matiasz's End Time and the Minimanual of the Urban Guerilla by Carlos Marighella. There is also a rather insightful letter from Total Chaos' Joe Bastard defending Epitaph Records, "anti-pig page" and more. The layouts are a little sloppy and I'm sure the editor will be a little embarrassed a few issues down the line.... As it happens. Anarchist, aggressive and angry. (Dan)
Mike / 4348 E. 15th St. / Tucson, AZ 85711
Warrior #8
? / S / 18 pages / Japanese
While most of the Japanese punks scene is busy blindly imitating the latest trends from the US, UK and Scandinavia, there is a small, underground anrcho-punk scene which puts politics first, trends later, and this magazine documents it quite well. Graphically, they steal from just about every famous western anarcho-punk band to make their point, but the content is serious, political action and recourse. This issue is a long time coming and focuses on the major events of anarchist resistance in Japan during 1995, as well as an emphasis on world wide punk events. Included in this issue is coverage of the Hannover Chaos Days, anarchist actions in Japan (against the emperor system, the execution of Mumia Abu Jamal, a squat in Kyoto, etc.) as well as an interview with Aus-Rotten and more. The layouts are somewhere between a Skuld rendition of Amebix meets Class War and ar heavy on the computer / scanner manipulation. The entire content is in Japanese, but this has a an English overview of the major anarchist events in Japan over the past year. Recommended if you understand Japanese, a cultural curiosity or interesting piece of archival material if you can't! (Dan)
A.R.P. / P.O. Box 57 / Sakyo, Kyoto 606 / Japan
Wasted Paper # 6
$4ppd / S / 60 pages / German
Well, this is THE BIBLE of politically correct nihilism in Germany. I have seldomly seen such an enjoyable outburst of rage and desparation brought onto paper. Most of the time, the editors vomit forth their anger, disgust and total hatred for modern capitalist society. This almost perfectly combines the No Future feeling of the early 80ies with the political outlook of DIY punk culture. I cant even remember the last time I saw so many crazed newspaper clippings and demented collage bits in the layout. Taking the good taste of bad vibes to new heights! Essential! (Y@hoo)
WP / Postfach 5103 / 48419 Rheine / Germany