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ROLLINS BAND, Q AND NOT U@9:30 CLUB, DC-We missed most of Q and Not U's set, what I caught was done well, but not really my cup of tea. I can't really decide what they sounded like, maybe like indie rock with a drummer playing techno beats? You'd have to hear it for yourself. Next up, the Rollins Band took the stage, with Keith Morris walking to the mic instead of Hank. After briefly discussing the West Memphis Three, they tore into Nervous Breakdown, followed with I've Had It, Depression, Revenge, Fix Me, Wasted, Gimme Gimme Gimme, and No Values. After Keith exited, the band started playing Rise Above, with Hank coming out, and Ian Mackaye following. Ian sang backup on Rise Above, then left, with Henry and the band playing for about an hour, including Police Story, Clocked In, What I See, Can't Decide, Jealous Again, I Don't Care, Black Coffee, Modern Man, Damaged I, My War, American Waste(with the dude from Clutch singing), I've Heard It Before, Six Pack, TV Party, and closed with the Ramones song Time Bomb. I know it wasn't Black Flag, but it was still great. The band was incredibly tight and powerful, and the guitar player pulled off all of Greg Ginn's guitar gymnastics. Definately a night I'll remember for a long time.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?-NO CASH, NO THRASH EP- The boys in WHN? have taken a turn to a more crossover-type sound on this release, putting only 3 songs on a seven inch (whereas before they've fit 8). Really original sounding song structures, generally a pretty innovative record for fast hardcore. Well worth your $3.50

DRAGNET-WE'RE ALL CUTTHROATS LP-Why is it the younger the band is, the more pissed off they are? I saw these guys over a year ago, and I remember them saying they were still in high school, perhaps they're out now. Nevertheless, this LP rules, its fast, but not too fast for people who aren't generally into thrash or powerviolence, and heavy, but not heavy enough for people who aren't into mosh-hardcore. Kind of reminds me of a healthy mix of Damaged-My War era Black Flag. Great release, can't wait to here more from these guys

LIMPWRIST LP

RAMBO/CAUSTIC CHRIST split 7 inch-Well, this flat out fucking rules. Caustic Christ gets better and better with every release, and this is no exception with their hardcore punk powerhouse. The first song "Burned" is officially my new anthem. Rambo's side I didn't think too much of at first, but after a couple of listens I realize the error in my ways. It rages. Buy this.

BREAKFAST LP-Man, this thing fucking smokes. From the Raymond Pettibon artwork on the front, to the picture of the band playing next to a giant half pipe on the back, I knew I was in for a treat. Mix super fast thrash with Minutemen style funk and you get one beastly LP. I need to move to Japan.

4-1-GO! FEST@CC SPACE, BALTIMORE-We(Jean Mills Society Torch) played first. I won't review my own set, but I hope everyone enjoyed our RUSH intro. Next was Kerum, doing their dual vocal grind destruction. They played well, but made a lot of mistakes since they only were playing with one guitar. Third was Can't Say, who played some new material that I think puts their old stuff to sleep. I didn't catch Bombs Away.

DRAG THE RIVER, CANYON, another band, THE COUNTRY DEVILS@OTTOBAR, BALTIMORE-First up was the Country Devils, who play blue grassy kinda stuff with two guitars and a mandolin. They said they also had a banjo player, but he couldn't make it. They did a quick set of entertaining songs, but it wasn't really my thing. I can't remember the name of the next band. They played sort of indie rockish stuff with a country flavor to them. Apparently their from Westminster, but I've never heard of them. Bonus points for excellent country-rock versions of Minor Threats "Filler" and Black Flag's "My War". Some bands would do this and try to be funny, but these guys pulled it off really well. Afterwards was Canyon, whom I believe are from DC. They played slow, ballady alt-country complete with steel guitar and organ. I really enjoyed it, but didn't think it was the kind of stuff I'd listen to in my house on my own time. Now, after I've had time to reflect, I really wish I'd bought the record, because I think I'd listen to it constantly. Finally was Drag the River, with members of ALL, Armchair Martian, and the Nobodys. I've been listening to this band constantly for the past couple of months, so I was really excited to see them. If you haven't heard them, they are a great country band, and I very highly reccomend all three of their releases. They played for two hours straight, doing all the best stuff from their two albums, and an INCREDIBLE cover of the Replacements "Can't Hardly Wait". I can't wait to see this band again.

CAUSTIC CHRIST, RACE TO DIE, CARPENTER ANT, DECONTROL@PAUL'S HOUSE, RED LION, PA-I love house shows. There's really nothing cooler than when kids put on shows for touring bands in their basement. No security, no bouncers, no bar, no worries about ticket sales or anything like that. But it sucks when people take advantage of it and wreck the house and try to start fights. Decontrol played first, doing a tight set of fast street punk type stuff. Bonus points for Warzone and AC/DC covers. Next was Carpenter Ant, doing some angry skatecore. Any band that throws out skate board wheels at the beginning of their set is cool in my book, and these guys are no exception. To make a long story short, I bought every record they had. After CA was Race to Die. These guys weren't on the flyer I had, but were definately a pleasant surprise, since the last time I saw them I couldn't get their demo CD out of my CD player forever. They play fast hardcore, with some crossover elements and all around just fucking rip. Next up, Pittsburgh's Caustic Christ. I really liked their two seven inches a lot, and they more than deliver the goods live. Unfortunately I had to leave a few songs into their set, but what I saw was great. I missed Municipal Waste, but I'm sure they tore the house down. All around a great show, and tons of thanks to Paul for doing yet another killer show.

CHILL-O-THON @MANCHESTER- I showed up a bit late, the first band I caught was Red Velvet Road. They had a lot of energy, and seemed pretty into what they were doing. Bonus points for WWF style chair throwing. I'm not huge on screamo type stuff, but they seemed to have a lot of fun and thats the most important thing. Next was Active Sac. I couldn't really hear them that well, and it seemed like the mic had way too much low end on it, but the played a pretty tight set, and the new material sounded good from what I could hear. Third was L'Dopa, who were having problems with their drum machine. One of the cords wasn't working right, so it was completely inaudible, but they went through with their set anyway, playing most of the stuff from their demo, and a few new ones if I'm not mistaken. Following L'Dopa was Roma Delenda Est, tearing through a quick set of noise core, which everyone seemed pretty into. There were a few parts where I think maybe they couldn't hear each other too well, but overall they brutalized the audience pretty well. Blood Runs Cold from New Jersey played next, but I can't remember due to the massive amounts of bands playing this show. I didn't catch much of their set, but what I did see was tight emotional hardcore type stuff played pretty tight with a considerable amount of rocking out. The Long Drive Home followed these guys (I think...I can't remember the order too well). I was outside for the most part during the LDH set, so I really can't review the set. Next up was Stars Turn Cold, who have gotten tighter since the last time I saw them, and go pretty nuts while they play. They closed with a Poison the Well cover, and while I'm definately not a PTW fan, they rocked pretty hard and everyone seemed really into it. Following STC, Jean Mills Society Torch played our first show with new bassist Fat Albert. It would be kinda lame to review my own set, but I'll say that Al did a good job on bass, and Devin's outfit was king. I didn't see the band after us, but following them was Charly Horse, with a quick song from Conquita Sweat. Charly Horse did an energetic, fun set complete with singalongs, and a new song that ripped. One of the only local bands to get the honor of encores. Last was Hollow Point. It sucks that not many people stuck around to see these guys, because they pretty much mopped the floor with every other band that played, ripping through a beastly set of metal that was heavier than Yokozuna's casket. Throwing in some rad guitar harmonies and breakdows, I can't wait to see these guys again. The show as overall a lot of fun, but kids need to learn to respect other people's property.

PAVERS, CHERNOBYL KIDS @ OTTOBAR, BALTIMORE-The first few bands I saw I can't remember the names of. They both played that polished melodic hardcore stuff thats all the rage these days. Sounded like something you'd hear on WHS. There was a ton of frat boy looking guys at this show. I know I shouldn't judge people on their way of dress, but its weird seeing people that look like the guys I hated in high school getting into the stuff they made fun of me for liking. Oh well, its nothing new. The Chernobyl Kids played fast melodic punk stuff, kinda sounding like a Nitro Records band. The singer sounded kinda like that AFI dude. Next was the Pavers from New York. They're singer is Scott Reynolds of ALL, but the band has a bit of a harder edge at times than ALL. I didn't know a lot of the songs, aside from "The Trees", which was incredible, and their version of ALL's "Mary". Despite being cut short due to a massive amount of bands at this show, they ripped. I didn't stay to see the other two bands.

VOODOO GLOW SKULLS, ROGER MIRET AND THE DISASTERS, THE SPRINGFIELDS @ OTTOBAR, BALTIMORE- First band I caught was the Springfields. They sounded a little better than the last time I saw them, but still lacking in the stage presence department. Next was Roger Miret and the Disasters. This is Roger, vocalist of Agnostic Front leading a street punk band. They were a lot better than I thought they'd be, with pretty catchy songs and they seemed pretty into it, but since I'm not the world's biggest fan of street punk, and I had never heard these guys, I got pretty bored with them after about 7 songs. They did a cover of the Clash's "Career Opportunities", which I greatly appreciated. One thing I thought was cool was that when one guitar player would be playing power chords, usually the other would be playing open chords, giving them a pretty full sound. Last was the Voodoo Glow Skulls. Despite apparantly not being able to hear the monitors that well, they rocked out pretty hard and did a long, energetic set. The drums were sometimes off in a few places, and going slower than normal, but I assume this is because his monitor wasn't working right. They did all the favorites, and a new song, which wasn't too shabby.

MUNICIPAL WASTE-WASTE'EM ALL LP- Fuck man, this is a damn good record. This band is exactly what the world needs right now. Fast, hard, tight, and fucking fun. This record totally just puts a smile on your face, from the awesoem metal riffs, to the hilarious lyrics. More bands need to sound like this instead of rolling around on the floor.

DAVE SMALLEY, NATIONAL RAZOR FDIC, THE SPRINGFIELDS @ THE SIDEBAR, BALTIMORE I showed up too late to catch the Gamma Rays. Too bad I didn't miss the Springfields too. It wasn't so much that the music was generic as fuck, they also had no confidence or stage presence. If these guys looked like they were having more fun, they would be much better. National Razor tore through a quick set of tight, catchy punk, with an excellent cover of the Anti Nowhere Leagues "For You". While I am no 'League fan, they really tore this one a new ass! Finally, was Dave Smalley of Down By Law, Dag Nasty, and ALL. He played a few Irish drinking songs, a bunch of Down By Law songs and couple Dag Nasty songs. Great show, awesome singalongs, and shit, the guy did "Under Your Influence", what more could you want? He told some great stories, and it was all around a really good time. I'll definately be grabbing some DBL records soon.

THRASH FEST 4-MINNEAPOLIS Darick and I endured a 30 hour bus ride out to Minneapolis, almost no food, annoying fucking passengers, and uncomfortable seats, but it was all worth it. We arrived in St. Paul on Sunday morning, and were greeted by Chad of Any Last Words, whose house we stayed at. Chad and his friend Kim showed us around, took us to the Triple Rock Bar(owned by Paddy of Dillinger Four) for breakfast, and then it was off to the show. The first band I really didn't think much of, but at the same time didn't watch much of. Second was Any Last Words, who played an intense set of fast youth crewish hardcore. These guys are so hardcore their guitar player sprained his ankle during their set and kept right on going. They're doing a 7 inch on Havoc soon, you'll buy it if you know what's good for you. Next was Path of Destruction, who I skipped to buy records. Fourth was Damage Deposit, Felix of Code 13 and Destroy's new band. They played well, considering one guitar player had a broken hand, and the other still had a sprained ankle from playing with Any Last Words. They were more straight ahead hardcore than Code 13, look for a 7 inch on Havoc soon. Next was Holding On, whom I've heard a lot about, but never heard. They play fast intense hardcore, with plenty of energy, and a Descendents cover to boot. Next was the mighty Tear It Up. If you've ever been to my site before, you know how I feel about Tear It Up. This was no exception, aside from a pulverizing cover of Black Flag's "I've Heard It Before", and tons of stage diving and singalongs. Amazing. After that assault, we had Limp Wrist, who I've been dying to see. I was not dissapointed. Anyone who calls Limp Wrist a gimmick needs to pick up their records and catch a show, because they more than enough to back up their image. We had Martin in full drag, the drummer in a cheerleader's outfit, tons and tons of stagedives, pile-ons, and hilarious comments from Martin. Probably the most fun band of the night. Last was DS-13 from Sweden, playing their last show. They did not dissapoint, although I think the guitar could have been louder. Oh well, can't have everything. They played tons of stuff from every record, opened with Anarchy in the UK, and covered a No For An Answer song with Felix on vocals. What more could anyone want? After a 3 hour sleep at Chads house and a treacherous 30 hour bus ride, Darick and I were safe at home in Hampstead. Was it all worth it? I don't need to answer that.

TRAGEDY-VENGEANCE I just recently got into this band, and this is probably the best thing I've heard from them yet. Really fucking heavy, but at the same time melodic, blah blah blah, you've heard it all before just buy the fucking record already.

TRAGEDY, SELFISH, MUNICIPAL WASTE, KERUM, EXOSUS @ BLOODSHED, BALTIMORE 11-19-02 Jesus, there were so many records for sale at this show. I could only take home a few, and had to leave behind many amazing slabs of vinyl, but I'm sure they'll all come to me eventually. First was Exosus, from DC who were playing their first show. They were fast crusty hardcore, along the lines of Catharsis, and full of energy and power. I quite like what I heard, and am excited to see these guys again at the CC Space Dec. 8. Second was Baltimore's Kerum. If you've never heard them before, they play really fast grind with dual vocals. A pretty energetic set, although I couldn't hear all the instruments that well. Third we had Richmond's rippers, Municipal Waste. The minute they kicked into their first song, the place exploded with circle pits, singalongs, and people diving off PA stacks. Definately the best band of the night, they played songs from every release they've put out so far, including doing their entire Tango and Thrash 7 inch front to back. Fucking crucial! they announced that they have an LP coming out called Waste'em All. Guess who's gonna buy that when it comes out? If you guessed "me", score yourself 500 points and move on to round 2. Next was Selfish from Finnland, who weren't really my thing. They reminded me of Discharge, and not being much of a Discharge fan, I didn't watch most of their set. What I saw was well done, just not quite my bag-o-beef. Last was Tragedy, who ripped through a long powerful set. I really haven't heard much from these guys, and couldn't see anything because I was in the back, but they sounded really tight with really cool guitar leads. I'm gonna order their 2 LPs eventually, and I picked up a 7 inch to hold me over till then.

TEAR IT UP, LIFE SET STRUGGLE, RACE TO DIE@CHARM CITY SKATEPARK, RED LION, PA 11-2-02 Going to this show meant I would have to work until 8 am the next morning, but it was well worth it for me to see Tear It Up again. But more on that later. First up was Race to Die, who played a ton of songs about skateboarding with kind of a crossover sound. They didn't move around a lot while playing, but if I remember correctly they said they had just played another show right before then, so I guess that explains it. Bonus points for having an Explorer shaped guitar and covering Black Flag. Good stuff, I hope to see this band again in the near future. Second was Life Set Struggle from Ohio. They were pretty energetic and sounded really tight. I wasn't incredibly into them, but that was just because I hadn't heard them before. I guess a quick way to sum up their performance is to say I bought almost every record they had. They also did a Negative Approach cover. Next was Tear It Up from New Jersey. I've already reviewed them several times here, so I'm sure people are sick of me talking about them and won't go into too much detail. This was probably the most energetic set I've seen them do, at parts I thought Andy (rhythm guitar) was just going to explode. For some reason they seemed louder and the sound seemed clearer for them than the other two bands. They played a new song, which I thought was really great and I can't wait for the next record, along with a Poison Idea cover. I can't wait to see these guys at thrashfest.

SHELTER, AGE OF RUIN, KEEPSAKE, DESPERATE MEASURES, RUNNING FROM DHARMA @ OTTOBAR 10-26- I was really worried this show would sell out, since Shelter has never played in Baltimore. Boy, was I wrong. There was probably less than a hundred people here. First up was Running From Dharma. I thought their first song sounded like an exact replica of Thursday. The rest of their set really wasn't much better. Desperate Measures played second. Although they're from DC, they sound like they're from New York. I thought they sounded like Warzone. I'd go see them again, but I didn't like it enough to buy the seven inch. They had plenty of energy and played well, its just not really my thing. Keepsake was very quickly proceeding the wrong way down the one way street known as good music. Rarely have I been so happy to hear a band say "This is our last song". After them was Age Of Ruin, who sound like the Darkest Hour, but with breakdowns. Not incredibly original, but hey, who is? They're good at what they do, but once again, its really not my thing. They always put on an entertaining show, though, complete with fire breathing. I really don't know what to think about Shelter. At first Ray really didn't seem that sure of himself. Things picked up about halfway into their set, when they started getting into things more and seemed to be having more of a good time. But something about them just seemed odd. They almost seemed like a revival act, or a museum piece. I think if maybe the crowd had been more energetic, it would have seemed better. I mean, they had plenty of energy, and played well, but I was still dissappointed for some reason.

RAMBO/CRUCIAL UNIT SPLIT EP- This is the first in a series of EPs on Ed Walters Records by bands with members who bike. First off is Philly's RAMBO, with 3 songs about biking, politics, and local businesses getting shut down. Musically, they play hardcore kind of like early Sick of It All. On the B side we have Crucial Unit from Pittsburgh. I'm not gonna lie, Crucial Units older stuff really wasn't my cup of tea. I love their lyrics, but didn't really like the guy's voice. On this record, however, the vocals are lower in the mix, making it far more enjoyable for me. The record also comes with a small booklet with bike-related writings by members of the bands and a few other people, including DIY tips on fixing your bike. (See distro section)

REAGAN SS - HAILING THE NEW DAWN EP-This came out pretty resently on 625. Fast hardcore, but not generic, you can tell they borrow equally from both the old and the new. I like how the singer's voice is kind of off time in some parts, and the guitar work is kind of sloppy, but that enhances it rather than detracting. Good stuff, I'm gonna track down their other release on Gloom

BOUNCING SOULS, ANTI-FLAG, PIPEDOWN@NATION, WASHINGTON, DC 9-26-02-I felt wierd here. I felt old. But more on that later. We missed the first band, Go! For the Throat, who I really wanted to see, but I'm sure I'll get to see them sometime soon. The first band I saw was Pipedown, who were godawful. Every song sounded exactly the same and the singer had the single worst voice I've heard in a long time. He would scream a lot, but it didn't fit the music at all, and the songs were unnecessarily long. They also played a cover of Billy Idol's "Rebel Yell", but it was supposed to be funny because they are a "punk" band playing it. But the thing is it wasn't funny because that's a great song, but they aren't a great band. Next up was Anti-Flag. I used to love Anti-Flag when I was 14-15, but now I can't get into them. I guess I'm just past it. They played well, and I think they are good at what they do, I just don't like what they do. They made a lot of statements throughout the night without actually saying anything. I mean, anyone can go onstage and say "Fuck the police, fuck racism, fuck sexism, fuck homophobia", but we've all heard that a million times before. And that doesn't make these things any less important, but it seems kind of trite when you're only really saying it to get the crowd to cheer. Last was the Bouncing Souls. I like the first two albums a lot, but never thought to get any others. Not that they are bad or anything, its just that the first two were enough for me. They played a great energetic set, my only complaint being that they didn't play my favorite song, "Lamaar Vannoy", but oh well. At the end for the encore both Anti-Flag and Bouncing Souls took the stage to perform versions of each others songs, which was fun to watch, as they were definately enjoying themselves. I had a lot of fun, but it definately made me feel old to see kids looking just like I did when I was 14, and realizing that I am a different person now than I was then. And I just can't go back. Which is a good thing.

WITCHHUNT, KYLESA, DAUGHTERS, AND ANOTHER BAND @ NYUMBURU CULTURAL CENTER, COLLEGE PARK 9-22-02-This was supposed to be a mini-fest with four or five more bands, but they didn't show up. Oh well. Witch Hunt was first, playing fast crusty punk with a feminist slant. I though they were good live, but not necessarily what I would listen to in my room. They played a short energetic set and talked about women's rights in the Middle East and Starbucks, among other things. Next was the band whose name I don't remember. They were a screamo (I hate that term) three piece. I really don't know what else to call them but screamo, but I don't like that term, so I'll say it was emotional, very musical, and lots of screaming. With long drawn out sections of interest guitar/bass interplay, and cool off-time drumming. Third was Kylesa, who I wasn't a fan of. I only watched the first two songs of their set. It was crusty sludge type stuff, that really wasn't exactly my bucket-o-fish. Tons of amps though. As in enough for a show three times this size. The last band I saw was Daughters, who it seemed most people were there to see. They play really fast, technical grind. I liked it a lot, but they didn't play very long, probably due to time constraints. Extremely fast with neat time changes and guitar parts. I accomplished my only mission of the night by scoring the Daybreak/Ultimate Warriors split from the Robodog table.

MUNICIPAL WASTE/BAD ACID TRIP SPLIT 7 INCH-The Municipal Waste side is pure genius. Fast crossover metal/thrash, like mid perion DRI or Cryptic Slaughter, but all the songs are about Kurt Russel. I love it. This is the best thing this band has put out so far. Judging how quick their first EP went out of print, I'd snag this now. The Bad Acid Trip side isn't my cup of tea, but that doesn't mean it's a bad brew. They are grind with dual vocals, one really high and one really low. I'll be keeping this on the Waste's side.

AMDI PETERSEN'S ARME-NEW 7 INCH ON HAVOC- The title to this is in Danish, and I can't remember it, because its not in front of me right now. Anyway, this is 6 songs, one an instrumental, of fast hardcore that sounds a lot like the Circle Jerks "Group Sex" album. Word on the streets is this band is no more, so snag this seven inch and see what you missed. Good stuff, and has english translations and tons of photos.

DILLINGER FOUR, TOYS THAT KILL, RIVETHEAD @ OTTOBAR 9-12-02 I showed up too late to catch the first two bands, but oh well. Rivethead was poppunk in the Screeching Weasel/Ramones style, which isn't something I'm normally into, but I gotta say I liked these guys. Its not something I'd listen to at home, but they had that snotty attitude I love, and the drummer looked like one of the Beastie Boys from the "Fight for Your Right to Party" video. Add that to Paddy from D4 getting onstage to dance like Bill Cosby, and you have an enjoyable performance. Next was Toys That Kill, who I had never heard before, but enjoyed. Really evergetic rock and roll thats a lot of fun live. Once again, not the type of thing I'd listen to again, but if they come around again, I'd most likely go. Dillinger Four was last, and were great. Opening with a song from their new album, "Noble Stabbings" and then going right into my favorite D4 song, "Superpowers Enable Me to Blend in With Machinery". I was in heaven. Paddy talked a lot during the set, giving his hilarious opinion on the sexual habits (or lack thereof) of the punk scene, Victory records, Johnny Unitas, and emo. See this band when they come through next time, its something you won't forget.

ALL, SOMEDAY I, WRETCH LIKE ME, ARMSTRONG @ OTTOBAR 8-18-02 Well, I would be a liar if I said this wasn't really exciting.First up was Armstrong, who I really didn't like that much. They didn't have a whole lot of energy, and I swear the drummer played the same thing in every song. Second was Wretch Like Me, who ripped. They played really ballsy rock and roll, with manic frontman Abe Brennan doing flips and yelling with his powerful and soulful voice. They played a great set, and I'll probably pick up one of their albums soon. Unfortunately, I can't say the same for Someday I, who had a sever case of sucks-raw-ass. After their seemingly never ending set, it was finally time for ALL. If you've never heard All, you are truly missing out. If you have, you were probably at this show, or saw them at some part of this tour. The opened with Can't Say, and did not stop playing at all throughout the entire set. No talking, no tuning, no silence, just one song after another. Frog, Bubblegum, Minute, Paper Tiger, I Wanna Be a Bear, Rotting Out, Wienerschnitzel, Breakin Up, and closing with Original Me. Afterwards, Bill came out to talk about O & O Records, then they did an amazing encore, including She's My Ex, then they switched instruments around, and with Karl on vocals launched into full blown versions of Coolidge and Billy Idol's Rebel Yell. Nights like this aren't soon forgotten, and neither are bands.

SCHOLASTIC DETH-KILLED BY SCHOOL 7 inch-Twelve songs in ten minutes, with great lyrics. Incredibly fast, but still catchy. Get this now. Fast, hard, and fun, like hardcore should be.

WHEN IN ROAM, DOWN IN FLAMES, THE BOILS@ RED LION, PA-When in Roam was kind of rocknroll-ish, with good songs, but not incredibly fun to watch due to a lack of action. Plus the sound in the room the show was in was terrible, so it was hard to here what they were playing. Next was Down in Flames from New Jersey. This was their second to last show, and if you can make it out to Jersey for their last show, I strongly reccomend it. Even they were definately tired from touring, they still went pretty nuts, ripping through a short set including "What the Fuck", "Screaming in Your Face", "Watch it Die" and the DIF theme song. Great stuff, and I'm sorry to see this band go. Last was Philly's heroes, The Boils. These guys have been at it for some time, and are good at what they do. They play energetic street punk, and have some good catchy songs. Since I really don't know any of their songs that well, I got bored after about 20 minutes, but I'm sure it was great to people who've liked this band for a while.

TORNADO OF KNIVES, CAN'T SAY, LET IT BURN, THE BREAK @ CC SPACE AUG. 3, 2002-Tornado of Knives from Philly play fast hardcore with songs about skating. I think they played atleast three songs about skating, which made me a fan. I've seen Can't Say three times, and I think this time was the best. They've grown a lot as a band, and are a lot of fun live. You can tell they definately love what they do. My only complaint is I don't think the guitars were turned up loud enough. Let It Burn played next, and I was immediately drawn to the because of the bass player's Motorhead shirt and the guitar player's Sovtek amp. They played good punk rock, with lots of energy. It was good live, but not the kind of thing I'd listen to at home in my room. Last was The Break, who I think were the best of the night. They play really powerful, catchy rock. I don't know if its the equipment or what, but some bnds are just so tight and powerful, that at certain points the guitars, bass, drums, vocals, and kids singing along all mix together so well, that it doesn't even sound like music anymore, its just that raw power running through your body. This band will probably get big in the next few months, and you'll get to listen to every asshole tell you what a great EMO band they are, or what a great POP band they are, or whatever the next big subgenre is at the time, but you won't have to listen to them because I just told you what great BAND they are.

CIRCLE PIT NINJAS-MP3.COM-Great old school hardcore from Israel. Sounds like it should be on Not So Quiet on the Western Front or something. Everything, the recording quality, the singer's voice, and the song structure, makes you think you're listening to a band from 1982, not 2002. The files are small, and take less than ten minutes to download them all, and less than three minutes to listen to them. That's REAL hardcore. www.mp3.com/cpn

UDC, BURN TO SHINE, LONG DRIVE HOME, MY SISTER KATE, ACTIVE SAC, CHARLY HORSE AND MISHAPS @ A FARM- It was cool to go to a local show, since there haven't been any in a while. There was a huge turnout, which kind of surprised me. The first band I didn't catch much of, so I won't review. The second I can't remember the name of and played sloppy hardcore. They said they had had lineup trouble, so I guess thats why it seemed kind of unrehearsed. Still, not bad, and with practice could be good. Next was UDC, another band with lineup problems. Apparently the singer couldn't make it to the show, so they played without him. They sounded good, nonetheless, and I'm sure once they get the lineup straight and write some more songs we'll be seeing some more of them. Third was Burn to Shine, playing their first show. I'm not huge on this type of hardcore, but they played well, and aren't afraid to go nuts while playing, which is always a good thing. Burn to Shine is a name we will probably be hearing a lot in the next few months. I wasn't around for the Long Drive Home, but others said his set was good as usual. I'll take their word for it, since I'm really not an emo fan. Next was My Sister Kate, an indie-rock band who's been playing for a few years now. This is the third time I've seen them, and I have to say I enjoyed them more this time than any other. The sound quality was excellent and, as Alex of Charly Horse said to me during their set, "They definately have their shit together". After MSK was Active Sac, another local favorite. They played a brief, energetic set, setting of the local kids into a slamming frenzy. They always play great shows, and this was no exception. Next on the bill was Charly Horse, who've gained quite a following in a short time. They played a very energetic set, joining the kids in the pit, and obviosly having a good time doing it. It's been fun watching this band grow in the past few months, and I'm sure there's more to come. Finally was the Mishaps, who in the past year have become local heroes. They played a new song, which was quite ripping, and tore through some of their more well known songs inspiring singalongs, circle pits, and an all-around good time. Unfortunately I had to leave early, missing their last two songs. This show reaffirmed my confidence in the local scene, which I had started to lose due to the lack of shows and venues, plus a few local bands breaking up. I hope this show has let everyone know that although our scene may slow down from time to time, the abundaceof great bands and kids refuse to let it die.

CONVERGE @ THE OTTOBAR, JULY 19, 02- First off, thanks to the dude that gave me his extra ticket and got me in for free. You're a lifesaver. I missed the first band, Absolomn, because I was waiting in line. The second band was Age of Ruin, from DC. Not bad metalcore, that reminded me a lot of the Darkest Hour. Lots of double beats and guitar harmonies. They had some dude breathing fire, too. Someone stagedived and knocked themselves unconscious and had to be taken out by paramedics. Hardcore. They closed with a rendition of "Shot Throught the Heart" by Bon Jovi, and there was much rejoicing. Third was the Misery Index. Death/Speed Metal. Not bad, but kind of boring to watch since they really didn't move at all. Plus the guitar player with long hair doesn't seem to be able to headbang in time with the music. That's the number one rule of metal-IF YOU'RE GOING TO HEADBANG, DO IT IN TIME WITH THE MUSIC!!! Last was Converge from Boston. I'm not huge on metalcore, but I like Converge a lot. The musicianship is amazing, and I think they are great songwriters. They opened with "Concubine", the first song from the latest album, Jane Doe. I've never seen a band act like this on stage. They go insane, shaking, jumping, swinging their guitars, everything you can imagine. And they don't stop. They played several favorites of mine-"Forsaken", "The Locust Reign", and kids kept shouting for "Concubine", even thought they had already played it. Finally, they ended with "The Saddest Day", which I think is their best song. It was fun watching the stage hands attempt to get kids off the stage in certain parts of the song. An exercise in complete futility. After the song ended, singer Jacob Bannon collapsed on the side of the stage, completely exhausted, while the drummer threw his drums about the area. There is really nothing like Converge live.

CRUCIAL UNIT/MUNICIPAL WASTE SPLIT CD- First off, I'm an idiot for getting this on CD instead of the vinyl, because the vinyl has better artwork, and the track list is messed up on the CD. First up is Crucial Unit of Pittsburgh. They play fast trash/grind with funny lyrics. I liked this more than the "Everything Went Strunk" CD, but that's good, too. Next up is Municipal Waste, from Virginia. Ever since I got their 7 inch on Amendment Records I've loved this band. Great thrash crossover metal, with rad divebombs and great lyrics. The recording is better on this than on the 7 inch, and the songs shred. And the sample from "The Stoned Age" before "Born to Party" is icing on the cake. I love that movie! Get this on vinyl.

RAMBO-WALL OF DEATH THE SYSTEM CD I picked this up after seeing their set in Baltimore at the Bloodshed. Really good old school styled hardcore with breakdowns, but not "Hatebreed" breakdowns. The lyrics are great, mostly political, but not to the extent of sounding inhuman. They inject some humor into song titles ("Rock Out With Your Black Bloc Out", "Circle That A, Motherfucker", and my favorite, "Jesus' Middle Initial Does Not Stand for Hardcore") and lyrics, proving that political hardcore can be fun. There's also songs about biking, and not wanting to conform to society and get a "real" job, which I thought was pretty inspiring. To top it all off, the CD has a CDRom video on it that is amazing. Nothing beats seeing a bunch of guys run out in viking suits with cardboard swords, shields and axes and then battle it out in the pit. The video is really good quality, and the music is great. An excellent release

CAN'T SAY-DEMO CD This is a five song demo CD from Baltimore's Can't Say. Being that this band is named after an ALL B-Side, I was pretty excited. I've seen them twice, and was impressed with the gitar work and energetic performance. The five songs on the demo are all well written, with clear production. The guitars interact with each other in a neat way, rarely playing the same thing, keeping things exciting. The music is melodic pop, but not generic, kind of reminding me of the first song on Dag Nasty's Wig Out at Denko's. The back of my copy says there are only 200 made, so pick it up soon.

TEAR IT UP/DOWN IN FLAMES AT CC SPACE July 6 2002 The CC Space is a new show space in Baltimore, and I must say its great. The basement where bands play is small, and the sound quality is great. The first band I didn't catch the name of, but I assume is from Baltimore. They played good fast hardcore, but no one in the band moved around except the singer, so it got a little boring. Second was Shitfit, from Virginia. I had seen them once before and was quite excited. The singer runs around, slamming into people while yelling over great early 80's DC/Boston inspired Hardcore. They started playing a VOID cover, but stopped much to my dismay. Third was Down In Flames from New Jersey. I have their split 7 inch with Tear It Up, and their new album on 625, so I knew what to expect, and they certainly delivered. The singer said he felt sick, but that didn't keep him from going nuts yelling until his face turned red. They played a short, but forceful set that left me wanting more, ending with their theme song, the Down In Flames anthem. I was disappointed to hear this was their last tour. Last was Tear It Up. This was the third time I had seen them, and they have quickly become my favorite thrash band. Needless to say, they did not disappoint, opening with "Don't Call Me Tonight" from their new album, "Nothing to Nothing". See this band or find a new subculture. They even played a Poison Idea cover. The entire band goes completely apeshit when they rip through their brief, but incredibly powerful sets. A great night.(See Pictures section)

TEAR IT UP-DECEMBER 2000 SESSION CD I picked this up at the show at the CC Space. This compiles TIU's limited one sided 7 inch, "Zero to Suicidal", split LP with ETA, and split 7 inch with Fast Times. Opening with "Revolution in a 3 Chord Song", an ode to international DIY community, this CD rips. It isn't quite the masterpiece their LP "Nothing to Nothing" is, but since this was written and recorded before that, its kind of expected. "Tear It Up, Tear It Down", "Friday Night", "Death Wish", "I'll Make You Regret It", and their cover of SOA's "Girl Problems" are my personal favorite tracks on the CD, but they all shred. The fast and powerful drumming, dual guitar parts, and Dave's unmistakeable yell make this and pretty much any other TIU release essential.

DOWN IN FLAMES-S/T CD The new full length from Down In Flames is a step forward from their previous releases. It's fun to listen to a band grow through their releases, and DIF is no exception. No songs really stand out on this, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It flows smoothly with their brand of fast old school hardcore. Definately worth picking up, although I recommend the CD for the bonus Live set. Sad to hear this is their final release, if DIF kept going, in a year or two they could really become amazing.

SCHOLASTIC DETH-REVENGE OF THE NERDS 7inch My, my, my, this is a gem. 7 songs of fast skate thrash with lyrics that are incredibly inspiring. Max Ward strikes again. It's incredibly fast, but catchy, and the production is great. Seek this out before it becomes legendary. I can't wait for their final 7 inch, "Killed By School"

CAUSTIC CHRIST 7inch I was excited to pick this up, since it has Corey and Eric of Aus-Rotten. I know they are probably sick of that beign the first thing mentioned about their new band, but oh well. Aus-Rotten was a pretty important band for me when I was younger, they were the first real DIY political band I ever heard. I was always interested in politics, but never really got involved. Caustic Christ is going more for an old-school hardcore sound, and kind of reminded me of Poison Idea. If they keep going, I can see myself getting more into this than I did Aus-Rotten. The lyrics are less overtly political, and this EP has an overall very heavy sound. I think it has a lot to do with the way it was recorded. Tons of low end, and the guitar is really fucking heavy sounding. The first song makes it worth the $3 I paid for it, and the others are just as good. I can't wait to see this band live.

THE MISHAPS, ACTIVE SAC, CHARM CITY SUICIDES AND MURPHY'S KIDS @ ALI GARAGE I love the shows in Ali Garage, which is actually my friend Darick's garage. The acoustics are great, the bands are mostly good, and its jsut a fun atmosphere. The Mishaps played first. I've seen the several times in the past year, and its been exciting watching them grow. They opened with "Mrs. Wellington", which is my favorite song of theirs, so I was quite the happy guy, despite being sick with mono. They always play very powerful and energetic sets, and this was no exception. Next was Active Sac, another local band. I'm not much for pop punk, but I like this band a lot. A very good set, including some of my favorites "Her Song", "Clean" and "Shallow". Their sound has a definate early Green Day influence, but they aren't a GD ripoff, with great dual guitar parts and songs much faster than anything Green Day has done. Charm City Suicides played third, and I was quite pleased. The sound kind of reminded me of Nervous Breakdown-era Black Flag, with a definate garage rock influence. They go quite nuts when playing, which I always love. I would've bought their LP, but had no money. See them on their current US tour. Last was Murphy's Kids, a ska band. They weren't bad, but I don't think they are ready to tour. They played waaaay too long, losing a lot of peoples attention,and weren't the tightest band in the world. But, they definately seemed to be enjoying themselves and I guess that's the most important thing. With more practice and some better songs they could get really good. I'm also sick of hearing pop/ska bands to jokes about people's moms. In between every song they would say, "This song is about (band member)'s mom". It got old really quick. All in all a good night.