PE #36 Zine Reviews Book Review
NOISE REFUSE
ABSURD ATTITUDE Born to Die in an Environmental Disaster 7"
This is the latest release from this Finnish band. Fast, manic, powerful punk. Strong vocals and political lyrics make this a band not to be taken lightly. Just as kick ass, if not better, than their first one! (duke)
Fight Records / Turtolanmaenk. 6D31 / Fin-33710 Tampere / Finland
ABUSE/DISKONTO split 10"
ABUSE play a furious blast of Swedish hardcore- some of the best I've heard of late. Full speed d-beat attack with screaming vocals that could give DROPDEAD a run for the money. Unfortunately, the lyrics don't match the power of the music- they seem self-destructive, negative, cliche, and borderline dodgy. I guess this is pure ear candy. DISKONTO are back again delivering 11 tracks of their Swedish hardcore punk attack- alternating between a fast d-beat, and a rocking pogo beat. This time they've got an additional female vocalist in some of the songs. Good political lyrics with a bit of the 'Konto humor thrown in makes their side a winner. (Jon)
Consume, Be Silent, Die!/ P.O. Box 1001/ Providence, RI 02901
ACRID / BOMBS OF DEATH split 7"
Bombs Of Death ( not a reference to my ass after some Taco Bell ) play some brutal Slayer-esque HC that absolutely blows me away!!! ( I think they are just playing Slayer riffs). All star line up too!! Acrid are even more evil ( and write their own songs to boot ) playing brutal grind / thrash in the Assuck vein. Deep thought out lyrics keep the reading interesting. This is one ripping slab I'd swear was made by Satan himself. (Kerry R.)
No Idea / P.O. Box 14636 / Gainesville, FL 32604-4636
ACRID / LEFT FOR DEAD. split 12"
Well, it seems as though lately No Idea cannot figure out how to put out a standard sized record. This one is a LP shaped like a saw blade. It definitely looks really cool. Like the split 7", Acrid rip it up again, yet a bit slowed down. Real thick, well produced HC that pounds away at a nice pace. In touch thought out lyrics; somewhat poetic. L.F.D. play heavy straight up hardcore without letting up till the end of the side. The production is what keeps this out of the pile of run of the mill records. (Kerry R.)
No Idea
ACTIVE MINDS/PETROGRAD split LP
Yet another fine offering from this long running 2 piece from England. 7 new tracks played in the known Active Minds style, ranging from sing along punk rock to raging thrash, accompanied by outspoken lyrical topics with long in depth explanations. Petrograd are a fairly new band from Luxemburg who play a style of melodic punk that if I were to make a comparison I would compare it to early Chumbawumba right down to the melody of the female vocals. It is actually pretty unique and catches your attention easily. Great lyrics that are mostly political with some personal and good explanations for each. I should also mention that this record is a benefit for Dave Callender who was falsely accused of various charges such as arson, possession of explosives, and other direct acts in the name of animal liberation. He is now being held hostage (sentenced for caring) which is the name of the record, included in the booklet is a 41/2 page story from the Dave Callender news letter, as well as lyrics graphics and explantations from both bands. A portion of the funds of the sales goes to the Dave Callender Justice campaign (Joe)
Skank records A.S.B.I. 66 Avenue Charlotte L-4530 Differdance Luxumborg
ARGUE DAMNATION/BOYCOT split 7"
Argue Damnation continue to carry on the Confuse, Disclose, Gloom tradition with extremely noisy, DIY hardcore. You can practically watch the sweat ooze from the groove on their side of the split. Easily, AxDx are the most compelling Japanese band around these days. Boycot are solid, mid-paced, political hardcore. Their guitar distortion definitely turned my head more than once. (A. Noise)
FFT Label, Asahi Plaza Umeda 1212, 4-11 Turuno-cho, Kita-ku, 530-0014 Osaka, Japan
ARGUE DAMNATION / MRTVA BUDOUCNOST split 7"
A.D. are definitely one of the better DIY Japanese bands around these. Total loud, noisy Confuse / Disclose-like blazing thrash minus a feedback track. This is some mad shit. M.B. are the best thing Eastern Europe has to offer. Fast, shredding HC with mildly sloppy drumming. The blend the fasts parts brilliantly with the slowed down power-riffage. A must for all thrashers. (Kerry R.)
Recalcitrant Noise / 425 4th St. NE #2 / Minneapolis, MN / 55413
BLACK KRONSTADT The Free Spirit LP
Fuck, I am damn impressed with this one! The production isn't quite as sharp as their last 7" on Consensus Reality, but that adds to the overall mood of the record. You can't really just pick the songs apart and critique them as the LP itself is more like an overall statement. Songs flow together from intense spoken bits to sludgy bass intro to blasts of metal laden riffage somewhat black metal influenced. They have introduced a female vocalist to the scheme also. Beautiful gate fold packing and deep, insightful lyrics. (Kerry R.)
Mind Control/ 1012 Brodie St./ Austin, TX 78704
BOYCOT / DISTRESS split 10"
Well, Boycot rip it just as hard as their split 7". Damn good thrash. Distress play top notch dis-core with some of the thickest beefed up guitar sound I've ever heard. Excellent all around. Lyrically, I give it to Boycot. (Kerry R.)
BROTHER INFERIOR / WHOREHOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES split 7"
I'm so glad that this piece of vinyl is finally out! These are two of the best bands the north American scene has to offer. Both are punk as fuck, political, and totally DIY. Brother Inferior combine rough powerful vocals over midpaced, original, and creative music that you can't help wanting to get up and dance to! Whorehouse of Representatives speed up the pace with the music and snotty, angry female/male vocals. This is pure raging/energy/punk!! (duke)
Profane Existence
THE COLE QUINTET FLAMINGO s/t 7"
This band is from Germany, I've never heard anything about them, before I got this seven inch. I think it's their first record release, four songs that reminds me very much of the first Acme seven inch. The guitar sound ins quite similar, and I think some parts are taken form some Acme songs. The difference to Acme is, that the singer of this band sounds like he would slowly die, and the Acme singer was more angry and powerful. (Joe E.)
Paracelsus / Alex Haase / Hombergerstrasse 12 / 37124 Rosdorf / Germany
CRESS/DOOM split 10"
This record is top to bottom MAD! Cress provide a great follow up to they're brilliant debut lp. 4 new tracks of Heavy, straight forward, 80's style peace punk with 90's production. Dual male vocals shouting against the meat industry, homelesness, human error, and ridiculous stereotypes. Cress are a great band for so many reasons certainly worth checking out! Doom are back with 4 New tracks (one Cover song) of crushing heavy as fuck crust as they've done so well all these years, they've advanced musically and lyrically (as you too can see by the rush hour.....lp), and continue to be one of my favorites. Nice Packaging, and info on the McLibel case. (Joe) Essential shit!
Flat Earth c/o Bradford Music? P.O. Box 169, Bradford BD7 1YS, U.K
CRIPPLED HEROS Cycle of Oppression 7"
Raw as dirt, thrashing hardcore punk from this new Chicago band. Brutal sounding bulldozer production drives in the nails of this four track ep of up-beat, Swedish inspired madness. Angry political lyrics shouted by multiple vocals deliver the message well. Check this one out! (Jon)
Diabloarchy Records/ 12760 Fransico Apt. #2/ Blue Island, IL 60406
CRUEL FACE s/t 7"
This could be some of the most brutal, best produced hardcore thrash I've heard yet out of Brasil. The best way I can describe this would be a cross between Dropdead and the early grindcore sound. 10 songs here- short and to the point. Lots of tempo changes, which keeps it interesting- especially with the amazing drumming. This is quite a wall of sound coming from this three piece, with all the members doing vocals. Killer stuff! (Jon)
Sin Fronteras Records/ P.O. Box 8004/ Minneapolis, MN 55408
DAMAD Centric 7"
The music on this is pounding and slightly off balance in an artistic was and these guys make it work. Unconventional, interesting, original and strong. (duke)
121 E. 63 ST / Savannah, GA / 31405
DECREPIT / CEPHLATRIPE split 7"
Decrepit... have you ever had that feeling of chills up you're spine, the one a band can give you when they get to you in such an intense way? Decrepit will do that. They are undoubtedly one of the best bands in the American punk scene right now. They put together intensity with personal/political lyrics in a perfect combination. Cephlatripe are really heavy musically in a kinda metal sorta way. Tough vocals sing poetically personally lyrics. Not totally my 'cup o' tea', but damn good at what they're doing. (duke)
Extortion Records / PO Box 80131 / Seattle, WA / 98108-0131
DECREPIT / SCATHED split 7"
So, on this 7", I still feel the same as ever, if not more so with these tracks, than ever (see previous review). As for Scathed, I think they're a bit better of a companion on this 7" as far as music styles (they fuckin' rock!). This is definitely a deco not to miss out on! (duke)
Un-Yelliman Records / PO Box 80131 / Seattle, WA / 98108-0131
DETESTATION / POSITIVE NEGATIVE split 7"
Positive Negative are absolutely brilliant! Fast, loud, Angry, powerful, and political. This is as good as it gets. Detestation kick ass just as hard. Strong female vocals and powerful punk punk punk!! (duke)
Fight Records / Turtolanmaenkatu 6 D 31 / 31, 33710 / Tampere / Finland
DILLINGER FOUR Midwestern Songs of the Americas LP/CD
Once again, Dillinger Four top themselves in blowing you away with their amazing energy. The most powerful (for what some would call a pop punk band) soundin' punk fucking rock! These guys are incredibly talented and creative.... it just keeps getting better and better! (duke)
Hopeless Records / PO Box 7495 / Van Nuys, CA / 91409-7495
DISFLEISCH Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing New 7"
I'm aware that I'm probably the only one at PE that holds this view, but as far as I'm concerned it would be best to dig a big hole and throw about 98% of all the Dis-bands in it. Needless to say, I'm extremely pleased that others in the DIY scene are beginning to hold similar views. While Active Minds set the standard with their recent Dis is getting Pathetic 7", this new German bands have made it their goal to give a good kick in the nuts to the international Dis conspiracy. Features hilarious lyrics lampooning the mindless sloganeering and meaningless pose that goes with doing a Dis band in the 90ies. Songs like Disease of Punk, War is Unsightly, God Bless Dis Way really bring the message home. My favorite line is: Rob Discharge of some riffs, play them a bit faster - It's gonna be a hit! The real surprise is that all of this is carried by some pretty damn powerful Hardcore Punk, certainly better than most of these Dis clowns out there, played very tight and in-your-face. (Y@hoo)
Rödel Rec / Keule Sternkicker / Allmendeweg 89 / 13509 Berlin / Germany
DISSOBER/DOWNWARD SPIRAL split 7"
I was excited to see a new release by Sweden's DISSORBER who brought us the awesome "Sober Life No Way" CD a few years back. Three new songs here in the same raging "dis" style as their previous stuff, but with a more refined sound. The music is tighter and better produced while the vocals are less raw. The lyrics deal mostly with personal strife and religion. The bottom line is that these songs rip- totally remind me of "Painkiller" era Cimex. DOWNWARD SPIRAL deliver one lengthy track of mid-paced metal-tinged Swedish hardcore with sort of watered down lyrics, but definitely good and worth checking out. A good split of heavy Swedish hardcore. (Jon)
Aparat Records/ Anna Granlund/ Väderkvarnsg. 42 D/ 753 26 Uppsala/ Sweden.
DOOM Pissed, Robbed, Twatted 7"
This is actually a live record from a monumental gig in Slovenia consisting of a stolen jacket containing a passport, the vocalist Wayne being punched in the face while on stage, all this while under the influence of some mad booze called Korn. There are 6 previously released tracks, decent sound quality, included are lyrics, and a more detailed description of what happened the night of Sept. 20, 1996 (Joe)
E-150 / UNABOMBER split 7"
Well, E-150 are back, and fucking good as ever. Pure gut wrenching hardcore along the lines of Los Crudos, Dropdead, etc. Hard and fast yet catchy and damn intense. Unabomber (not to be confused the unabombers) rip it up. More manic hc with some slowed down tempos and ferocious vocals; equally intense. Strongly dedicated well thought out lyrics; totally dedicated to the DIY movement. A must have!!! (Kerry R.)
Don't Belong / M.G.S. / P.O. Box 8035 / 33200 Xixon / Spain
EBOLA/M.V.D. Domination Means Death split LP
Two of Berlin's best hardcore thrash bands team-up here and belt out the most intense material I've yet from either band. EBOLA play brutal hardcore at break-neck speeds with killer production and dual female vocals that are totally raging. The drumming is incredible. Lyrics are angst filled rants dealing mostly with frustration at being stuck in a world of apathy, greed, and abuse of power. M.V.D. have been around for a while now and show now signs of mellowing out- in fact quite the contrary! 11 tracks here of raw hardcore with powerhouse production, dual male vocals and a mean d-beat throughout. Lots of really topical lyrics dealing with subjects such as child abuse, liberals, pet abuse, record collectors, and lots more. In all, this is a wicked split LP and one of the best I've heard in a while. (Jon)
Thought Crime c/o Jens Walter/ Petersburger Strasse 68/ 10 249 Berlin/ Germany.
ERESHKIGAL / THE INFINITY DIVE split 10"
Here are two of the best bands to come out of the fast growing number of new ones from Minneapolis this year. Ereshkigal play mid paced to fast punk with a layer of biting angry vocals that belt out lyrics of personal frustration at people's attitudes towards life. Infinity Dive jump in with blazing guitars and speed up the pace with mad drumming and vocals. The music flows out to a more measured pace at times but always keeps it's intensity. (duke)
Sociopath Recordings / 3149 Lyndale Ave S / Minneapolis, MN / 55408
EVANCE False Peace 7"
Typical looking record from HG Fact. Glossy 2 color sleeve, etc. 4 tracks of great mid-paced upbeat hardcore (not thrash). Sweeping guitar riffs and leads, scruffy vocals and good production make one damn catchy records. I want more!! (Kerry R.)
HG Fact (address Elsewhere)
EYES OF WAR The Spirit Lives On! 7"
Excellent hardcore punk from this German band. They play a great blend of old style punk rock, mixed with a bit of metal riffing, then do some Discharge style hardcore. They got their own style and it shows- raw punk at its best. I think I'd really like to see this band live. All lyrics are in German except the song "War" which is pretty self-explanatory. Nice three-color packaging and poster sleeve are the icing on the cake. Recommended! (Jon)
Eyes of War/ Görlitzer Str. 37-1 HH/ 10997 Berlin/ Germany
FIELDS OF SHIT s/t 10"
This is really layered and complexly mixed hardcore punk from the Bay area with ex-Filth singer Jake on vocals. Mostly mid-paced beats with really active bass lines. The over-all sound is really moody and atmospheric. The packaging it incredible on this record- nice multicolored jacket, thick lyric booklet, and poster. This is tough to describe, but if you dig this type of stuff, check it out. (Jon)
Life is Abuse/ P.O. Box 20524/ Oakland, CA 94620
FLUX OF DISORDER/VOMITUS split 7"
F.O.D. belt out three powerful thrash numbers here. Raging crust punk that cuts right to the bone with raw as fuck guitars, stampeding beats, and angry shouts. Excellent political lyrics that focus mostly on government control and natural destruction. Their third release, and by far the best stuff from this Denver band. VOMITUS play full on grindcore complete with alternating growling and screaming vocals, drilling fast parts, grinding double-bass slower bits, etc. Really well done, but not quite my cup of tea anymore. A good DIY release- quality thrash by both bands. (Jon)
Nonsense Recordings/ P.O. Box 381143/ Clinton Twp., MI 48038-0077
FORWARD While You Alive LP/CD
This is blasting forth with raw energy. The lyrics are personal and motivational for the mind. Worth a listen, and another, and another... (duke)
HG Fact / 401 Hongo-M / 2-36-2 Yayoi-Cho / Nakano-Ku / Tokyo 164 / Japan
FUCK ON THE BEACH Fastcore on the Beach 7"
As usual, blazing fierce Japanese hardcore; very nice shit Louie. This release provides very little information about the band or anything else for that matter. This is a typical Slap-A-Ham record where an "only in it for the music" classification can be reasonably applied. (A. Noise)
Slap-A-Ham Records
FUCKFACE s/t 12"
Finally, this record has come out. Unfortunately they have split and I think this might be out of print already. Their special brand of manic 80's styles HC energy comes through here with some great tempo changes. Nice embossed cover adds to the overall package. 45 rpm's keep this one short and sweet. Good shit. (Kerry R.)
Six Weeks Records
GASP/NOOTHGRUSH split 7"
Both would fall under the uninspired, boring, and soulless dirge category. O.K. folks, let me explain. Dirge doesn't work when all you do is bang, drone, and scream. It isn't that simple. You MUST groove and flow. If you can't groove and flow, spare us. You are giving all of us a headache without compensation.
(A. Noise)
Clean Plate Records
HELLKRUSHER Wasteland CD
This is re-release of their first LP. Really fuckin metal, but that's in a good way (like Hellbastard). Hellkrusher are still punk as fuck in attitude on this one, raging and totally brilliant!! (duke)
Bomb Factory Records / PO Box 21 / Tenterden / Kent / TN30 7ZZ / UK
HELLKRUSHER / PREPARATION H Cincinnati Meets Newcastle split 7"
Unlike the CD re-release of their first LP which I reviewed here as well, this is today's HELLKRUSHER. They long ago lost the distinct metally sound and are full on powerful punk. Strong musical talent and politics make this band a mainstay when it comes to being one of the very best bands around. PREPARATION H have totally mad dual vocalists and raging, pissed off punk rock with the power to knock you completely on your ass! (duke)
Wicked Witch / PO Box 3835 / 1001 AD Amsterdam / The Netherlands
HIBERNATION Xeimepia Vapkn 7"
Excellent release here. Powerful hardcore "crust" from this Greek band ranging from slower heavy stuff similar to Axegrinder then going into amid-paced metallish style like late period Antisect, then to fast thrash in the full throttle Discharge beat. Quality heavy production brings out the power of this band and the excellent packaging- with a lyric booklet (with English translations) containing strong graphics and hard stock cover- make this one not to be missed. (Jon)
Malarie Records/ Gladiolowa 22/ 60-175 Poznan/ Poland
IDEAL ANTI-FASCISTA demo
Well, this is a new demo by these Spanish anarco-thrashers who have been kicking around for a while now. Honestly, no real surprises here, just well played / written solid HC with gruffy vocals and driving guitar. They do great Dropdead and Los Crudos covers, which gives you an idea of their influences. The lyrics (in Spanish ) are to the point and prefer to cover common topics like sexism, animal cruelty, etc. Excellent stuff. I am looking forward to future releases. (Kerry R.)
I.A.F. / Abel, Apdo 190 , Sta Coloma Grnt 08921 , Spain
THE INFINITY DIVE The Drama of Broken Teeth 7"
The first thing that strikes me about this record in the elaborate packaging- completely hand-constucted with multiple styles of paper, inks, and transparencies. No wonder they only made 350! The music is a powerful blend of modern hardcore with discordant riffing and agonized screaming vocals. Reminds me a bit of URANUS or RORSCHACH, but even more up-beat. The lyrics are written in a personal way dealing frustrations of life. An excellent release- I'm looking forward to hearing more from the great new local band. (Jon)
Sociopath Records/ 3149 Lyndale Ave. S./ Minneapolis, MN 55408.
INFLICTED / OJOROJO split 7"
OJOROJO are blazing, mid paced, heavy hitting and mad as fuck! The guitar tracks on the instrumental on this are so good you'll have 'em going through your head hours later. Talent Talent Talent!!! INFLICTED are a perfect match on this split because they're just as mind-blowing, intense and impressively talented. As if this piece of vinyl weren't already enough, I was lucky as fuck to see these guys live recently. Don't overlook this band for a second! (duke)
Powerground / 1309 S. 21 ST / Manitowoc, WI / 54220
INITIAL DETONATION s/t 7"
Not only does the pounding and powerful, punk as fuck music and dual male/female vocals kick ass on this... but the well written lyrics on animal rights, domestic violence and environmental issues are the kind that make you minds open up and think twice. This is the kind of band that years ago, I would have added to my lists of influences into the political side of punk (duke)
Sensual Underground Ministries / PO Box 2545 / Tulsa, OK / 74101
IN THE SHIT Can't Take Anymore 7"
In The Shit's music is in your face and powerful, with a heavy feel. The lyrics are unpretentious and heartfelt. This is, straight up, really good punk rock. (duke)
Holly Cottage / 1 Manley Rd / Newport / S. Wales / NP9 4JY / UK
INTERVENZIONE / YUPPICRUSHER split EP
Well, this is the third offering by Yuppiecrusher. Every release gets better. The music is a totally catchy, yet powerful blend with a similarity to Conflict maybe. I really appreciate bands like this who have an intellectual approach and really seem to care about what they are saying. Intervenzione from Portugal offer an earful as well; shouting out against homelesness, etc. I find the music in the similar vein as Yuppiecrusher; with a good mix of M/F vox. Great release!!! (Kerry R.)
D and U / P.O. Box 172 10 / 104 62 Stockholm / Sweden
JERKOFF/MURDERERS split CD
These two bands couldn't fit together any better! 77 punks take note, The Murderers have done a 180 degree change, a recharged new line up, and sound! Punk as fuck, catchy, sing along punk fuckin' rock, and nobody does it better! This really isn't my cup of tea but after seeing the Murderers live I know they've done they're homework! The Jerkoffs provide a similar brand of snotty, in you face punk and they've earned this split with the Murderers. There are no lyrics provided?! hmmm. But there are plenty of nice full color pictures to look at. (Joe)
Beer city records P.O. Box 26035 Milwaukee WI. 53226-0035
KATASTROFIALUE Vapaus on Vankila 7"
This band has a few eps and splits out now, and embarrassingly this is the first one I've heard, because they play song really great and intense hardcore. Full on d-beat attack here with some slower changes thrown in. Brutal vocals and buzz-saw guitars drive the nails in further. Angry political lyrics sung in Finnish with English translations provided dealing an array of topics. This is the best thing to come out of Finland since Valvontakomisio! (Jon)
Vicious Interference/ P.O. Box 2331/ LandO'Lakes, FL 34639-2331
KIMUSAWEA Krze abhanlung Vom Menschen Und Seinem Glück LP
This is amazing. Complex, layered music, with a driving beat and powerful female vocals that are full of emotion, melody, and intensity. The music sometimes reminds me of NEUROSIS, sometimes ACME, but mostly of something completely unique. Really unique packaging as well with great use of printing techniques, imagery and color. Lyrics are all in German, so I can't comment on that. Musically though, this will draw you in and take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. Great stuff. (Jon)
Nabate/ BP 92/ 4000 Liege 1/ Belgium (or) Maximum Voice Productions/ Postfach 26/ 04256 Leipzig/ Germany
KORT PROCESS Svart Natt 2x7"
Everything about this record is great (with the exception of they're break up). Tight as fuck intricate hardcore, with deep punchy vocals, great production so you can hear the constant changes in the music, a musical gem! After you are done rockin' out to this mad display, each record is slipped into its own printed inner sleeve, placed along with the booklet, which contains lyrics that appear in they're native tongue but English explanations are provided, plus well done hand drawn black and white pictures, into its well crafted protective outer shell until next time! (Joe)
Heartfirst records Bockstr. 39. 10967 Berlin, Germany
KRAWEDZI DEPORTACJI split 7"
While there is certainly more than enough verbal radicalism in the DIY scene, there's still punk rockers beside the major spotlights that are putting their money where their mouth is. Some of these people play in NKD, a band made up mostly of Polish punks living illegally in Germany, heavily involved in the squatting and punk movement, both here and in Europe. For obvious reasons, they've called their band "On the Edge of Deportation" This is the only band of "illegal immigrants" besides Youth against Fascism from Chicago that I know of! And they certainly deserve a lot of support because a lot of the simple things of being in a band like touring, practising, etc. are that much harder for them. It's encouraging to see that they've beaten the odds, putting out a dedicated crusty anarcho punk record that keeps up real well with most of the other bands of this style out there. The female vocals remind me of Agnes of Homomilitia in style and intensity and having an Australian do the male vocals in his native language adds an interesting touch. (Y@hoo)
Nikt Nic Nie Wie / Po Box 53 / 34-400 Nowy Targ / Poland
LIFE Freedom And Liberation 7"
Well, if you like early Disorder, you might love this!! This fucking reeks of Disorder all over the place. Chaotic fuzzy guitar, pounding beats and a mad screamer. The lyrics; although not translated too well, actually cover some good ideas and do the job conveying the message ( pretty positive think for yourself type stuff, plus the obligatory anti-war stuff). Get this you mad thrasher!!! (Kerry R.)
Punk Bastard Records / 1-5-10 Shimizu / Suginami-Ku / Tokyo 167 Japan
MANUEL SEVEN The Shattering 7"
Base lines that remind me of Civil Disobedience, amazing guitar, blazing drums, and vocals that knock you out! This band hits you hard with the energy of their personal discontent at the chains we all struggle to break free of in our daily lives. Punk as fuck! (duke)
Profane Existence
MANEURYSM Swallowed By Karma 7"
Maneurysm dive in full force with raging music and accost the senses with screaming vocalists. This is really creative, and powerful and stands out as anything but run of the mill. Check this out! (duke)
Powerground / 1309 S. 21 ST / Manitowoc, WI / 54220
MESSED UP The Sign Of The Times 7"
HG Fact put out more records than seems necessary. Well, besides the nice packaging, the contents are equally impressive. They thrash out heavy, beefed up classic Japcore type stuff. (Kerry R.) Another thrasher from HG Fact. HG Fact / 401 Hongo-M, 2-36-2 / Yatoi-Cho / Nakano-Ku / Tokyo 164 Japan
Mrtva Budoucnost The Worst of 94-96 cassette
Seminal recordings re-released from this absolutely fantastic Eastern European band. This tape documents their great evolution from punk to crust to fierce hardcore. It has it all, and not for one fucking second do these folks let up. MxBx consistently blow away their contemporaries. If you haven't heard them yet, do yourself a favor and find a copy of this cassette. You won't be disappointed.
(A. Noise)
Malarie Record Distribution, P.O. Box 10, 60-170 Poznan 27, Poland
MUFF POTTER Schrei wenn du brennst! LP
The long awaited 2nd Lp by this German punk band. Starting off as enthusiastic youngsters, they've secured themselves a place among the top German punk bands of today. The first Lp was somewhat marred by sounding like some of their favorite bands, but this record sees them taking off on a road of their own (alright, maybe just their own turn-off at a busy intersection!). While there's still traces of EA 80, Dackelblut and other greats, they've gotten rougher and faster. Seeing as all the lyrics are in German, most of the fun of this band will possibly get sacrificed to the language-barrier, which is really too bad because their soothingly cynical, sometimes brilliant lyrics about living plastic lives in a plastic world are a real treat. Runner up for the best German Lp of the year. (Y@hoo)
Huck's Plattenkiste / Nagel / Berninghoffalle 1 / 48431 Rheine / Germany NKD Na
No Less Boxed In 7"
This is a waste of resources. (A.Noise)
Slap-A-Ham Records
NO THINK 12"
No Think deliver again with this 8 song 12" 45. Total rip-roaring thrash with all the right formulas; short, sweet and to the point. A definite improvement in song structure, etc since their EP. Like most Japanese thrash records, there are either poorly translated lyrics, or all in Japanese. Nonetheless, this record rips in every way possible. This has instigated many a rock -n -roll crazy nights. (Kerry R.)
Vinyl Japan
NY AGAINST THE BEZLBU Stunt CD
Well, this is gone almost too far. This is a tribute to Napalm Deaths "Scum" LP. It has a great rip-off of the original art and they cover the whole LP! So they just run down the track listing as Napalm did it originally. Honestly, N.D. didn't do that much for me, so obviously this doesn't either. But as far as novelty go, not bad. (Kerry R.)
Rotteness Records / CX Postal 1197 / Sao Paulo-SP / 01059-970 / Brasil
OBNOXIOUS RACE s/t 7"
This is a great ep of up-beat hardcore punk that's raging and catchy all the way through. Dual male/female vocals that play well off each other over music that's sound brings to mind other Quebec hardcore bands, namely Nihilistic Nobs. Great production and positive lyrics, make this a winner. Recommended. (Jon)
Tobacco Shit Records c/o Simon Pare/ 827 Goldbourn/ Greenfield Park, Quebec/ J4V 3H4/ Canada
PAUGH !!!! Bienvenidos a las Delicias Del Capitalismo LP
Once again I find myself excited over a release from Spain. As usual, the packaging is great , including a full cover and a really nice booklet with lyrics and explanations, ideas, etc ( in Spanish ). Musically there is a real heavy pounding, driving HC with a nice thick production. I cannot explain how good this is!!!! Another great release from Spain. (Kerry R.)
Xunca Records / Fuente Del Real, 9 Bis 1 / 33209 Xixon / Spain ( or get one from P.E. Distro)
PEACE OF MIND All Set to Boogie and No Place to Go LP
The first full length Lp by this long standing, dedicated German DIY band. Having added a female vocalist has given them a good edge for their rough, melodic Hardcore. The lyrics are, as always, excellent political observations from a personal angle, intricately detailed in the huge lyric booklet. The lyrics, presentation and people behind this band are something to get excited about, but it's not something I could say about the musical side. Although this record continues on the road of improvement set by their recent Split Lp, I'm still missing the real spark that will set the music alight. As things are, it's all very nice but not much to really sink your teeth into, maybe picking up the pace a good bit and getting tighter would help? (Y@hoo)
World Upside Down / Göttinger Str. 39 / 37120 Bovenden /Germany
POST REGIMENT Tragiedia Wg LP
On their third full length release, Post Regiment from Poland take their already unique and grabbing style of political punk even further- they're playing faster and with more aggression. This is a tough sound to describe because they play in a fast, driving way that makes you feel like you're wired to fuck on caffeine- makes you feel like you're going mad! The dual female/male work well together, singing fast and urgent. There's even some synthesizer bits thrown in that totally add to the sound. Top-notch packaging with great use of full-color art make a strong presentation and bring out the intensity of the lyrics. One of my faves this time for sure. (Jon)
Profane Existence/Skuld Releases (or)
Wai Aye c/o Herne/ Sorauerstr. 11/ 10997 Berlin/ Germany
PROHASKA Cordoba Achtundneunzig 7"
Such a funny record, well I'm afraid that it's just funny if you are from Austria, or if you know Austrian soccer very well. The name of the band, Prohaska, is the name of a legendary Austrian soccer star. He used to be one of the really big players in the 70's who is now the trainer of the Austrian national football team, won 3:2 against Germany! Between the songs are samples of the TV Moderator from 1978, who became a legend for moderating this game. The songs have titles such as 'Penalty Shootout' or 'Cordoba'. Well the music is some powerful hardcore, it's their first record and it rocks! (Joe E.)
Charon Collective / Horagasse 9 / 2500 Baden / Austria
PUNG State Of Youth 6" (i think, may be bigger)
The Assuck take-off cover is really funny, and illustrated well. Decent non cliche questioning lyrics (with goofy shit thrown in), as well as a solid soundtrack, keep me listening. Pretty straight forward modern HC with some fast parts. I just can't deal with all the weird sized records. Oh well. (Kerry R.)
No Idea (address Above)
REACT Disturbing the Souls of Buried Rage 7"
This is a masterpiece indeed. Five of Connecticut's hardcore veterans have come together produce a really powerful ep here. Tuned down, metal-laden Swedish influenced hardcore with plenty of hooks, time changes, and catchiness to suck you right into the speakers. Raging riffs, mad as fuck drumming and one of the best combinations of male/female vocals I've heard. Poetically written lyrics dealing with personal and political issues come across in a non-cliche, down to earth manner. Can't wait to hear more by them. (Jon)
Profane Existence
REGENERACION La Lucha Continua 12"
Finally this long lasting thrashing grind outfit from Mexico City get their 12"s together. If you are familiar, you will already know how raw and unrelenting their approach is. Definitely a cleaner recording than previous, yet it stills maintains the rawness. 11 tracks in all, lyrically personal looks on current situations worldwide along with an animal rights song thrown in. There is more than just lyrics with the booklet, but all is in Spanish. Definitely not for you who like bland music and politics. Seek this one out. (Kerry R.)
Cruz V. Luis / Apdo. Postal #16-052 / CP 02011 / Mexico DF / Mexico
RIOT SYSTEM Fit The Image 7"
These guys are from Australia and play what sounds like pretty straight forward pogo punk with a simple beat. Pretty angry, pretty good. I have to say though, that the recording isn't the greatest. (duke)
HG Fact / 401 Hongo-M / 2-36-2 Yayoi-Cho / Nakano-Ku / Tokyo 164 / Japan
SCORNED Shattered C-15
Blazing Swedish-influenced, tri-vocaled thrash. Once heard, I believe that anyone with the sense of a mosquito would agree that the female vocalist listens to way too much SDS and Iconoclast. Wait, wait, wait. You can't listen to too much SDS and Iconoclast, so I guess she would qualify as a r-e-a-l rocker. The lyrics are rather misanthropic, so that is another check on the positive side. Just seek the fucking cassette out, so you aren't pulling your ass hairs out one by one when you realize what you have missed. (A. Noise)
4 Thrashers, PO Box 8172, Minneapolis, MN 55408-0172.
SELFISH The Joy Of Industrial Society EP
Well, like the last offering by these Finnish thrash monsters, this release has a particular similarity to the sounds of the legendary Deathside. Right down to the well played solos and gang choruses. I say this with all respect to Selfish, because this record rips. Accompanied by a great layout / package; this slab has it all. A must have for all who thrash. (Kerry R.)
Genet Records / P.O.Box 447 / 9000 Gent 1 / Belgium
SIN DIOS "Ruido +Alerta" CD
Well, this is a CD reissue of the split and first LP by Sin Dios ( released in 91 and 93 respectively). So what you get is high energy punk / HC from Spain with a brilliant perspective. Included is a 64 page booklet in Spanish which goes into the ideas behind the songs, the Spanish scene, anarchism, etc. They say that there will be an edition in English too!! This is a must have!! (Kerry R.)
Sin Dios / Difusion Libertaria / apartado 18.251 / 28080 / Madrid / Spain
SNIFTER Action.... Reaction 7"
More raging hardcore from Sweden. Fuck... I'm running out of adjectives to describe this stuff! SNIFTER deliver eight tracks of raw thrash with dual male vocals and plenty of tempo changes to keep it interesting. Good lyrics dealing with pornography, animal defense, racism, etc., that come across with a strong conviction over such angry music. Great crust, done the Swedish way, and definitely not generic. (Jon)
Putrid Filth Conspircacy/ c/o Jonas Nilsson/ Trollebergsv. 16B/ 222 29 Lund/ Sweden
STATE OF THE UNION s/t LP
Poetic, personal and haunting lyrics screamed like a layer of acid over heavy, multifaceted, pounding music. These guys have always reminded me on Neurosis, but with a distinct style and sound of their own. (duke)
Profane Existence
SUFFER s/t 2nd 7"
I became a bit misty eyed when I received this record, it reopened old wounds. Being that was I sad when Health Hazard broke up, then Suffer surfaced and eased the pain, then they broke up as well! Well this record is fuckin' ace! Heavy, hard hitting, thrash with slow powerful breakdowns, angry as fuck vocals constantly screaming over this musical mayhem! Great lyrics, top notch production making this a brilliant final release from this mad English trio. You're ordering this right now! (Joe)
Flat Earth c/o Bradford Music P.O. Box 169, Bradford, BD7 1YS U.K.
SWALLOWING SHIT Let My Struggling Spirit .... 7"
Fuck. This is some of the most heartfelt rage I've been exposed to in a while!!! What doesn't get to you through the raw hard driving HC that just blast by song after song, will by reading the lyrics. This is absolutely crushing. Lyrics some might pass on as P.C., but I find them quite intriguing and fucking honest. You can only write so many words. Give it a listen for yourself. (Kerry R.)
Spiral Objective / Oakland Parks SA / Australia 5046
TELEFON "Ha'kova Panenka" LP
This was not what I expected, perhaps because this is not your average record. Each song is different while incorporating different styles into each song (confused?) Lots of stop and go, up beat punk, Some thrash, Spoken parts, ect... This record demands your attention and keeps you on your toes, to give a you better understanding of this I guess I would compare it to old Rudimentary Peni if they were polish. Nice poster style sleeve with graphics, and lyrics (in polish). This is a good original record and certainly worth your hard earned money. (Joe)
(no contact address)
TOCCATA AND BULLA concebimos en la tierra bastarda 3" CD
Another nice looking 3 inch CD from PE Far East. This time all the way from Equador. Fast, unrelenting grind / thrash with some intricate guitar work. This sounds so much better than the demo I heard a few years ago. 15 brutal tracks in all. The packaging is excellent, like most PEFE titles, including lyric explanations and translations. And the lyrics are right on, a lot of times discussing Latin American life and injustices, etc. Another must have!! (Kerry R.)
Izumi Kubo / 35, Sannaicho, Sennyuji Higasshiyamaku, Kyoto, 605-0977 / Japan
TOXIC WASTE/ BLEEDING RECTUM We Will Be Free split CD
This is a treat indeed! A collection CD of two of the best ever and most difficult to find bands from Northern Ireland. TOXIC WASTE played a powerful and catchy blend of political peace punk with dual female/male vocals reminiscent of DIRT. Their song structures are brilliant and really bring out the angry sentiments of the lyrics- exposing the violence and problems in Northern Ireland and taking a stand for liberation on all fronts. BLEEDING RECTUM, who has also split up, was the continuation of Pink Turds in Space. Their style is a bit different than Toxic Waste, playing raging metalish hardcore thrash- and fuck are they good at what they do. Their sounds tear right through you- best played at maximun volumes! Their lyrics are as intense as the music- dealing with personal angst and political issues in a way that makes your gut tighten. This is the shit! (Jon)
Rejected Records/ 9 Woodlands Ave./ Dun Laoghaire/ Co. Dublin/ Ireland
TRAUMA ACUSTICO / UNHOLY GRAVE split LP
Trauma Acustico are from Brasil and they play insane noise ridden grind / thrash. Sounds like it was recorded underwater on a 4 track. The singer sounds like a grizzly bear. Unholy Grave, who seem to be releasing a lot of records lately, blast through 13 tracks; 8 of them being live. This record is all about fast, blurred grinding noise. The vocals can be a bit ridiculous once in while though. (Kerry R.)
Absurd Records / CX. Postal 302 / Osasco- SP / CEP 06002-970 / Brasil
UNHINGED Crime and Punkishment LP
This is one of my favorite releases in the past year. Their second full length, UNHINGED has a new line up and more refined sound. This has a bit less thrash and rocks more than the last LP- a progression that works well for them. Crystal clear production accentuate the catchy, emotional riffing, multi-tempo drumming, and urgent vocals. The theme of this LP is prison institutions and how they fail in their very existence. Lyrics are in English and French, with explanations provided, dealing with other topics such as commodified life and social conditioning. You can tell by listening that they've been playing together for ages and come across with a sincere personal political approach that draws you in and doesn't let go- this is one of those records. Really uplifting. (Jon)
Nabate/ BP 92/ 4000 Liege 1/ Belgium
WORMWOOD s/t 7"
Personal and poetic lyrics overlay creative and dramatic keyboards. The drums and guitars and slower with a heavy, slow and deliberate feel to the pace. This is different, and I mean that in the best way. These folks are unique. Check this out and if you ever get the chance to see them live, make sure you don't miss the show! (duke)
PO Box 1957 / Lawrence, KS / 66044
V/A Bleaurgh -A Music War 7"
This ongoing series is a great idea in my opinion. This is the 3rd part of these "packed" 7" compilations. 73 bands and 84 songs are featured here. It is worth tracking down for the Bastard Noise track alone. (A. Noise)
Slap-A-Ham Records
V/A Damn The Control 7"
A 9 song international comp with Disclose, Chaos Channel, Totuus and 6 more. All
9 bands rip it up. Comes with a cool fold out poster-like sleeve. Highly recommended to those who like good old fashioned political HC / Thrash. Seek this out!!! (Kerry R.)
Vomiting Label / Pekantie 26 / Punkaharju / 58500 / Finland
V/A Europe in Decline LP
This is a quintessential sampler of mostly true underground units. Sure, there are a few "big boys" included, but I would bet that even the most updated hardcore kid wouldn't recognize most of the names here. This is what makes this comp. so special. The label wasn't fucking around when they compiled this record. Anyone can make a comp. with easily recognized bands, so why bother. The music does cross many style barriers, but EVERYONE is top notch. The stand outs are: Mrtva Budoucnost, Silna Wola, Left in Ruins, Totuus, Jobbykrust. Whether any bands are known or not is inconsequential. You will hear most of their names in the near future if any labels have the genitalia to venture from the norm. (A. Noise)
Six Weeks, 225 Lincoln Ave., Cotati, CA 94931.
V/A HC Scene #2 CD
I'm not really sure what to think of this. It's a compilation of 33 Brazilian bands with the intention of showcasing some of the bands from this country. Featuring pretty slick, almost professional packaging, it seems to come from a different kind of DIY scene. This is my basic complaint, this CD is a testament to the enormous influence of American punk and hardcore in Brazil (and most of the
rest of the world!) Most of the band either play Epitaph styled
pop punk, NYC Hardcore or another popular, mainstream-compatible punk style. There's sadly only a handful of bands that play the classic Brazilian style that some of us cherish. However, this still seems a DIY product, with a good portion of the bands covering political topics, although I'm not sure in what depth. (Y@hoo)
HC Scene / Caixa Postal 990 / Londrina Parana/ PR/ Brasil / 86001-970
V/A Inside Front #11 CD
This is a free CD that comes along with the zine Inside Front #11. Really cool to see people doing this, especially since CDs are so cheap to make nowadays (the cost for a CD is barley more than the cost of a 7") and you can fit so much material on them. The bands featured here are mostly metal-influenced hardcore bands with a modern sound and some old live tracks by Amebix. My favorite stuff was Ire, Zegota, Botch, and (of course) Amebix. Other bands included are: Society of Jesus, Earthmover, Lockjaw, Headway, Stick Figure Carousel, Opposite Force, and Kriticka Situace. There's lyrics, graphics, and info on each band in the zine. The whole package for $4, you really can't go wrong. (Jon)
CrimethInc./ 2695 Rngewood Drive/ Atlanta, GA 30345
V/A Keep It Angry CD
This has some really good bands, all well known within the current England punk scene at the moment. Oi Polloi, Hellkrusher, Riot/Clone, Combat Shock, etc.. The fold-out that comes with this is cool. It doesn't have any band pages or lyrics, just artwork on one side and an extensive list of animal rights organizations on the other. (duke)
Step 1 Music / PO Box 21 / Tenterden Kent / TN30 7ZZ / UK
V/A Muzyka Przeciwko Rasizmowi CD
Most of the bands on this compilation are pretty melodic, mixed in with a few pretty angry and loud interruptions by other bands. It's all worth checking out, whatever you prefer. Bands include: Schizma, Dezerter, Homotwist, Post Regiment, Apatia etc. (duke)
QQRYZ / PO Box 45 / 02-792 Warszawa 78 / Poland
V/A No Fate IV 2xCD
The latest of this compilation series continues with it's high quality. I mean this in all ways. Choice of bands and packaging all mainstays that keep these some of the best compilations to be released over the past few years. A few of the 80 bands on here: Epajarjestys from Finland, Crunch from Turkey, Patareni from Croatia, Acao Positive from Brazil, Crisis from Japan, Useless ID from Israel....you get the idea. (duke)
HG Fact / 401 Hongo-M / 2-36-2 Yayoi-Cho / Nakano-Ku / Tokyo 164 / Japan
V/A Swedish HC Comp CD
OK, if you like Swedish HC, then this is, without a doubt, absolutely essential! Bands like, Rajoitus, Dismachine, Abuse, Totalitar, Meanwhile, Diskonto etc. There's seventeen bands in all and every single song on this comp is mad, brutal, and crazy Swedish mayhem!!! (duke)
HG Fact / 401 Hongo-M / 2-36-2 Yayoi-Cho / Nakano-Ku / Tokyo 164 / Japan
V/A Wear Your Smell LP
From the excellent folks who brought us the Zapata Vive... LP last year, comes another brilliant compilation LP- this time a benefit for animal liberation groups and those who wear caught in their attempt to struggle for animals' lives. Another great line-up of bands, mostly from Europe and a few from the US, including: Jobbykrust, Dropdead, Active Minds, Ebola, Dystopia, Lost World, SM 70, Spite, Hiatus, Boycot, Distress, State of Fear, Sawn Off, and a load more. Lots of good quality live and studio tracks. Comes with a big booklet with graphics, lyrics, and info from all the bands. You can't go wrong here! (Jon)
Sebastian/ Stöckartstr. 6/ 04277 Leipzig/ Germany
V/A What Is Crust, etc..... CD
Well, we have a 14 band, 26 song comp from Vinyl Japan. A great Japanese sampler with some well known bands like Barricade, Frigora, Disclose, Defiance, Argue Damnation, but my fave by far is Carnage, who have an SDS influenced crunchy metallic sound. Damn good tunes! (Kerry R.)
Vinyl Japan (address Elsewhere)
V/A What Were We Fighting For? CD
Well, the theme of this is a Dead Kennedys tribute featuring non Alternative Tentacles bands. Pretty much what you would expect here. Gob, Anal Cunt, the Dread, Politikill Incorect, Blanks 77, Final Conflict, and more paying tribute to D.K. We all know the D.K.'s were one of, if not the, most important punk bands ever, but this is just a bit too much. Fans will get it, but I say go home and listen to In God We Trust instead. (Kerry R.)
Know Records / P.O.Box 90579 / Long Beach, CA 90809
V/A Where's My Shoe-The Sweetwater Comp. CD
A comp from the patrons and their respective bands of one of the coolest bars I've ever been to... the Sweetwater Tavern in Brooklyn, NY. It includes some of the best punk bands New York has to offer like, Spider Cunts, Public Nuisance, Distraught, 86'd, etc. There are a few surprises on here from bands I've never heard of and a few bands that I guess you wouldn't label punk rock, but it's a richly varied, interesting and quality compilation. (duke)
Angst Rec. / 302 Bedford Ave #327 / Brooklyn, NY
/ 11211
ZINE REFUSE
Alert #3
$1 / HS / 44 pages
The spectrum of the coverage political ideas in here more wide than most zines. The editor is making an effort to venture from his own punk underground culture, to explore the merits of other alternative, underground scenes... cool. It's always great to see lots of animal rights stuff as well. There's a ton of quality thoughts layed out in this zine. Worth checking out. (duke)
c/o State of Grace records / 942 Main St E / Hamilton, Ont. / Canada
Anarcho Icon Vol.2 zine
Great DIY zine written totally in Japanese. If for nothing else, seek this out to explore the sincere, DIY Japanese counterculture; tons of Japanese flyers, other Japanese underground propaganda, and Argue Damnation tour diary. I can't read a word, but I know it is packed with great shit.
(A. Noise)
FFT Label, Asahi Plaza Umeda 1212, 4-11 Turuno-cho, Kita-ku, 530-0014 Osaka, Japan
ANTI-PODER #9 / LOVE AND FLOWERS #4 split zine
$3 / HS / 64 pages
Well, it is really nice to read a zine from Spain that is in Spanish, but with a lot printed in English too. It seems that most of the writing is personal views on things ( mostly pink related ) like an extensive writing about drugs and abuse. Interviews with Coche Bomba and Cress. I am impressed by the great ( almost artsy ) layout. Its definitely one of the best looking zines around!! I really recommend this to everyone. Hopefully we will be distributing this one soon!! M.G.S. / P.O.Box 8035 / 33200 Xixon / Spain
Constructive Destruction #1
$2 / S / 28 pages
This is pretty good for a first effort. There's a small interview with a cop (weird but interesting), an article about the government trying to eliminate hard currency and more. There are some clippings in here that are used right out of newspapers, which I've always found contradictory for an alternative underground zine, but I think the stories they cover are important to hear (as long as you can read between the lines of the mainstream press). This zine has potential and I'm interested to see if it'll stick around. (duke)
1250 Skeetclub Rd / High Poing, NC / 27265
Distorted Views #1
$? / S / 40 pages
This an impressive first issue. Good layouts and thoughtful intelligent content throughout. There are thoughtful personal opinions on the scene today, McDonalds, animal rights, and more. Reviews, and interviews with EFIL, Cripple Bastards, and Cluster Bomb Unit. Many people would say that this is a run of the mill zine when you look at the formatting of it, but I have to look at a lot of zines here and this one might have the formula, but the only difference that makes it stand out is the quality with which it's undertaken. Keep it comin'! (duke)
Matt Greenwood / 708 20th ST / Mosinee, WI / 54455
Do or Die #11
$?/HS/166 pages
This issue is less of a zine than a perfect-bound offset printed manuel of Earth First! and ecological defense. Really inspiring reports ranging from road protests, direct action, occupations, police intervention, ecological disasters, etc. from all over England and Ireland, as well as Spain, Chiapas, USA, Brasil, India, and more. Lots of up close photos and interesting graphics throughout the book bring the articles to life. Lots of contacts throughout as well as book reviews and recommended reading. This is probably the most comprehensive Earth First guide I've read. Excellent and inspiring! (Jon)
Do or Die Editorial Collective c/o PO Box 2971/ Brighton/ East Sussex/ BN2 2TT/ UK
GOVERNMENT INFESTATION #1/2
$1.50 / HS / 20 PAGES
Nice looking zine. This is a limited cover version with red foiled lettering on the cover. Inside, the first page discusses sexual assault. Also included is some animal rights stuff and cool recipes for all you wanna-be chefs. I like the review section too. Well written. Add some interviews with Phobia, Global Holocaust and the idiot from Clean Plate Records and you have a nice zine!! (Kerry R.)
690-A Los Angeles Ave. Box 114 / Simi Valley, CA 93063
Inside Front #11
$4/ S/ 104 pages
This is an enormous issue that comes with a CD compilation (see Noise Reviews) brought to us from the CrimetInc. collective. Lots to read here- interesting columns and opinion articles, interviews with Zegota and Ire, scene reports from around the world, a huge documentary on Amebix, and loads of long in-depth music and zine reviews. Slick layouts with strong graphics along with the strong content make this one of the best Amercian hardcore zines I've read in a while. (Jon)
CrimethInc./ 2695 Rngewood Drive/ Atlanta, GA 30345
In Struggle #1
$? / S / 34 pages
This is a pretty cool zine put out by a couple of guys behind bars. It's punk oriented to boot. There are band interviews/bios and some personal writings on things from harsh personal admissions about addiction to topics such as racism. You have to admire the effort it must take to get this out! (duke)
PO Box 11232 / Salt Lake City, UT / 84147-0232
Järjetön Inkvisitio
$3/ A5/ 60 pages
This is a massive seven way split zine of some of the best the UK has to offer. Individually written and layed-out sections from Why, Aversion, Angelheart, Ripping Thrash, Cat On A String, and Hell and Damnation- each featuring their own interviews, reviews and writings. Throughout are interviews with Cress, Ruptured Ambitions, Sawn Off, Cause For Effect, Dirthead, Chinapple Punx, and more. Lots to read from those who've been at it for ages. You really can't go wrong here. (Jon)
Steve/ P.O. Box 152/ Burton-on-Trent/ Staffs/ DE14 1XX/ UK
Misanthrope #8
$? / HS / 24 pages
This small zine from Florida continues it's guaranteed quality with this latest issue. There's an interview with (and introduction to) Bobby Seale (one of the founding members of the Black Panther Party). The interview is (besides some creative writing) pretty much the bulk of this issue, but that fact doesn't take away from this zine being a good one. (duke)
Misanthrope / 1059 6th Lane N. / Naples, FL / 34102
MRR #183
$3 / S / really thick
Well, you can't say anything that hasn't been said about this rag. This issue has interviews with Asshole Parade and His Hero Is Gone (2 great bands), the usual column section (also worth reading) and of course the extensive review section which keeps us up on all new releases. There is also an interview with the Devochkas (all 75% female answer to the Casualties). Anyway, still a good read! MRR , P.O. Box 460760 , San Francisco, CA 94146-0760
NATURAL MYSTIC #7
$1 / S / 32 pages / newsprint
Well, here is another installment from one of the better zines coming from Argentina. Each issue has been looking better. This issue has interviews with Komando Moriles (anti-fascist Ska from Spain), Logical Nonsense and Cleanser ( new school HC ). You pretty get the standard music and zine reviews, columns, ads, etc. Good stuff. Checho / C.C. 3893 , Correo Central (1000) , Argentina
No Barcodes Necessary #6
$4(US) $3(Europe) ppd/ A4/ 36 pages
NBN comes across with a sincere approach and strong dedication to the DIY hardcore/punk scene. Really good writings from the editor and well thought out interviews with STAMPIN GROUND, Jon Active, Sned (Flat Earth Records), Richard (Armed With Anger Records), and zine editors Brob (Tilt), Stef( Empower), and Nico (Outrage). There's also columns from other writers, lots of reviews, and tons of band photos. Nice layouts with good crisp printing make this an eye pleaser as well. A great read and highly recommended. (Jon)
Mel Hughes/ 83 Glebe Park/ Chanterhill/ Enniskillen/ BT74 4DB/ N. Ireland
Raze the Walls #2
$3 / S / 36 pages
The magazine put out by a group of individuals dedicated to supporting prisoners. This issue contains part II of Peter Kropotkin's "Prisons and their Moral Influence on Prisoners", articles on individual prisoners, racism in the prison system, art and poetry from those behind bars and a hell a lot more. This in one of the best zines around to come out of the prisoner support network. The folks from Raze the Walls have also compiled a comprehensive list of resources for prisoners and a pamphlet that outlines their politics and goals. Truly inspiring!! (duke)
PO Box 2351 College Station Rd / Box 523 / Athens, GA / 30605
Revolt #2
$? / HS / 20 pages
An essential little zine packed full of international news reports from various alternative news sources. This issue also includes an article on the famous Haymarket and some herbal health care advice. (duke)
Chad C. / PO Box 5144 / San Luis Obispo, CA / 93403
Revolt #3
$? / HS / 20 pages
Another informative issue of this aptly named scrap-zine. This is all of the international activist news that you read from various sources, all in one place. From general strikes in Korea, to Free Radio Berkeley, to more on herbal medicine. This zine is, like I said above, essential! (duke)
Chad C. / PO Box 5144 / San Luis Obispo, CA / 93403
Urban Arms #1
$1 / S / 18 pages
There's zine and music reviews here, an interview with Chris Boarts of Slug and Lettuce, a few poems, an interview with Counterpoise, and an editorial on some thoughts about suicide (because of the death of Salimander, who was mentioned in a past issue of Profane). There are other various articles in here as well that add up to a pretty interesting read, covering a variety of political and personal topics. (duke)
PO Box 19275 / Cincinnati, OH / 45219-0275
Urban Gurilla Zine #4
$1 / HS / 56 pages
This is a really cool zine filled with many stories of day to day experiences, all of which I thought were creatively written and thoroughly interesting. There is also a lengthy article/review about a movie La Famlia (Mi Family) that incorporates a lot on insight on it's comparisons to everyday life. Check this out! (duke)
Jay Unidos / 1442A Walnut St. #419 / Berkeley, CA / 94709
War Crime #8
Another well done issue of War Crime. The articles are well researched and complete. This issue contains an interview political prisoner Chistopher Plummer, and the band Noothgrush from CA. An article about Mumia Abu Jammal, Telling the story and events that have taken place before and after his incarceration. For those of you who read W.C #7 you can follow up on the sea sheppherd article as part two is in this issue. Loads of music, zine, and book reviews, and W.C. gives free subs. to prisoners. Nice one! (Joe)
War Crime c/o Mike P.O. Box 2741 Tucson AZ. 85702
Friends of Durruti Group: 1937-1939 Agustin Guillamón
This book is the story of a group of militant, street fighting anarchists of the Spanish revolution during 1936-1939. The Friends of Durruti Group was a group of anarchists which took a stand on purist anarchist doctrine and opposed the collaborationist State-censored policy of the CNT and FAI proper. The growth of the group was a consequence of anarchist unease with the CNT's policy of compromise with the Republican government. The Group was one of many informal anarchist groups formed with certain key aims in mind. Their main focus was "an instinctive need to confront the CNT's policy of appeasement and the accelerating process of counterrevolution."
This book tells their story from their formation, through the powerful writings of Jaime Balius in anarchist publications, to their handbills and propaganda, and their militant street fighting. It tells of their trials and errors, how they were misunderstood, and how they were respected by other revolutionary groups. This was an uplifting an inspiring read as well as frustrating to see how such a dedicated and purist anarchist group was sold-out and misunderstood. A definite must for anyone interested in the anarchist groups of the Spanish Revolution. (Jon)
AK Press/ P.O. Box 40682/ San Francisco, CA 94140-0682 (or)
AK Press/ P.O. Box 12766/ Edinburgh, Scotland/ EH8 9YE/ UK