Threatening Society 'Zine

LOOKING BACK: This show review demonstrates many things, none of them good: How easily distracted I was by irrelevant events before and during the show, how poorly I conveyed the raw energy and electric atmosphere of a great live performance like the CRO-MAGS gave, and how my attitude back then was that being in the scene represented a 'contract' among the bands and the crowd. Though cancelling a show without explanation is understandable, I stand by my comments that price-gouging on show prices and merchandise was something that raised barriers to 'scene' participation and limits participation from the younger crowd. -- Tony

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

CRO-MAGS / LUDICHRIST / GANG GREEN
June 29th, 1987 Pulsations (Glen Mills, PA) [Tony]

The first show at Pulsations featuring hardcore bands was a success - not as crowded as the ANTHRAX show, but a decent turn-out none-the-less. We couldn't get any pictures of the bands onstage since Pulsations doesn't allow cameras, but we do have some pix of the accident that occured outside the club before the show started. Now you might be saying, "Gee. That's awfully insensitive to be taking pictures of such carnage. You should be helping." Well, you're wrong. The wreck wasn't too bad -- all the passengers walked away from the car unscathed). But everything was hunky-dory, whatever that means.

Continue reading "CRO-MAGS / LUDICHRIST / GANG GREEN" »

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LOOKING BACK: When I was 7, my cousin Johnny brought his KISS Destroyer album to my house. Between their comic-book like appearance, the 'toy' that came inside each album, and the realization that my parents and older siblings hated every note coming from the phonograph (look it up, young boy), I fell in love with metal. Though I later grew out of this horrible phase, I still had some traces of metalhead in me around this time. And I can't lie, Anthrax had some really fun and intense music around this time, and I had a great time at this show, though it IS emabarassing to see what a mark I still am for cheap stage theatrics. -- Tony

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

ANTHRAX / METAL CHURCH
June 8th, 1987 Pulsations (Glen Mills, PA) [Tony]
(This review is dedicated to the people who got pushed around by the bouncers and the lone stage-diver who got thrown out)

This was the first of Pulsation's "Metal Mondays" and it was a resounding success. The place was filled past capacity with over 1,500 eager kids who were glad to see more metal shows happening near Philly.

Continue reading "ANTHRAX / METAL CHURCH" »

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LOOKING BACK: Wow, I forgot all about Randy Now and City Gardens. The arch-enemy of the Philadelphia scene. He'd put on these huge shows at a club in Trenton, NJ (City Gardens, in a truly horrible neighborhood). If memory serves correct, the "controversy" is that he'd charge $15 for 2-3 national bands -- and that these touring bands would surpass Philly to play City Gardens. So, for years and years, I'd skip City Gardens gigs to "support the scene." Now I realize I must have missed some pretty killer shows (but, MAN, was $15 a lot of dough!). Who know what's going on with Randy Now and City Gardens... Anyway, I caught up with Life Sentence's drummer for an in-the-parking-lot interview, so putting up with the sardine-like conditions inside the club worthwhile. Oh yeah... I don't think I ever even *heard* DR. KNOW at the time. But they still sucked. And DRI *did* shred. I have no freakin' idea why I didn't stick around for the EXPLOITED. -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

EXPLOITED / DRI / DR. KNOW / LIFE SENTENCE / STALIN'S DAUGHTER
June 28, 1987 Club Pizazz (Phila., PA) [Mickey]

From what I can piece together, the billing of this show could almost be considered a mistake: Too many huge bands on one bill, in too small of a place. This is because of an ass proaoter frca New Jersey naned Randy Now who tried to cash in on tne action in Philly to stake lots of acney. well, he dropped the show, but the bands were booked, and Philly promoter Chuck Meehan was left holding the [fill in word of your choice]. This review is dedicated to Chuck for his dedication and determination in keeping Philly shows under control. Randy Now, stay the hell out! we don't need or want you!

Continue reading "EXPLOITED / DRI / DR. KNOW / LIFE SENTENCE / STALIN'S DAUGHTER" »

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LOOKING BACK: Jesus H. Christmas, I loved this band. Imagine my thrill when an interview request was responded to by Pete, their guitarist. Dude wrote such thoughtful responses to my lame questions. He'd been asked these same questions a thousand times before, and yet he intentionally reached deep by his response, and provided answers that the questions certainly didn't merit. My admiration for Pete was cemented via his work in Rain Like the Sound of Trains -- a band which had such poignant messages. -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

THREATENING SOCIETY: What is the current line-up?
PETE CHRAMIEC: Chris Jones (19) vocals, Pete (18) guitar, Tom Gorman (21) bass, and Chris (20) drums.
TS: Are you all original members?
PC: Chris and I are the original members. Until, now, it's basically been considered Chris' and my band, but now with the Gorman brothers, we feel it'll be more of a common effort. They were both in a band called FAST FORWARD.

TS: How long have you been playing your instruments?
PC: I started playing guitar the first time we practiced, four and a half years ago. Same with Chris Jones. Tom and Chris Gorman have been playing for similar amounts of time.

TS: Who writes your lyrics and music?
PC: Chris writes almost all the lyrics. I contribute now and then, but he does just about all the lyrics. The music has always been a combination of everyone. Even if I would write a whole song, Dylan (our old bass player) would often throw something into it to help it out or vice versa.

Continue reading "VERBAL ASSAULT" »

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LOOKING BACK: [A parking lot interview after a killer set by this great band. Cornered the drummer, who I think was on his way to the can; I wondered why he couldn't stand still -- he admits at the end of the interview he had to pee the entire time. Crap-generic questions (I only knew of them from what I read/saw in the pages of Maximum Rock N Roll), but Tom rolled with me. (Mad props to Marie at ChicagoPunkPix.com for permission to use the images below. She has great historial stuff on her site.) -- Mickey]

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

LIFE SENTENCE is a great hardcore band from Chicago. Their first album was very successful and they are now preparing their second LP. We caught up with them after a recent show in Philly.

THREATENING SOCIETY: Who's in the band?
TOM : The present iine-us is Tom -- that's me --21, on drums. Eric, the guitar piayar, is 26. Joe is the bass player and he's I8.
TS : Did you set rid of somebody?
TOM : We got rid of our singer about a year and a half ago.
TS : You were a four piece?
TOM : Yeah, we were a four piece originally, and rignt after we dumped the singer, we recorded the album. So the album is a three piece, and that's how we've been touring for the last year and a half.
TS : Are all of you original members?
TOM : Yeah.
TS : How long have you seen playing your instruments?
TOM : I've been playing the drums for about 11 years. Joe's been playing the bass for about five. Eric's been playing guitar fo aborut 15 years.

Continue reading "LIFE SENTENCE" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

GUNSLINGERS is a recently formed band from sunny California. Their popular band members and punk sound have made them hometown favorites. They're making a name for themselves by playing gigs cften, but their big break has come this summer, as they are touring with DOGGY STYLE. My good friend, Rib Finley (of DOGGY STYLE fame), had a chance to interview Wade Walston, at Wade's house, way back in May. It should also be noted that Wade is a movie star! Yes, he played Joe Schmoe (whose dad was gay, whose girlfriend killed herself, etc..) in the 1981 movie "Suburbia".

THREATENING SOCIETY: Tell me who's in the band.
WADE WALSTON:
Chief - guitar. Played for the original ADOLESCENTS
Quebe - bass. Played for a Fresno band called HEAVY MAKE-UP
Sam Westc- drums. Joined the band two months ago. A very heavy hitter. Played for BAD OPERA.
Wade Walston - vocals. Played bass for D. I. Sang for WILLARD AND THE RATS in '79-' 80, and played with other Ocean County (CA) bands.

Continue reading "GUNSLINGERS" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

HALLOW'S EVE is a really good thrash band hailing from Georgia. The last time they were in Philly, a riot erupted at Club Pizazz after a few songs. We got to talk to bass player Tony Stewart.

THREATENING SOCIETY: How long has the band been together?
TONY STEWART: For the sake of convenience, I usually say that it began on Halloween of '83, which is basically true. Actually, the date of our record contract is October 29th, 1984, so it's not just hype. Only a touch of it. So, 4 years.

Continue reading "HALLOW'S EVE" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

SADUS is a speed metal band from California that was formed in 1984 uncer the monicker D.T.P. The line-up is Barren Travis on lead guitar and vocals, Rob Moore also on lead guitar, Steve DiGiorgio on bass, and Jon Allen on drums.

SADUS "D.T.P.": Killing thrash for die-hard speed metal freaks only. Burning speed and screeching vocals come together to make a good tape, Among the choice cuts are "Sadus Attack" and "Fight Or Die". The demo is available for $5 + 2 stamps. T-shirts are $10, and stickers are 3 for $1. Overseas add $2 to all orders.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

SUBURBAN UPRISE is a fairly new band from Suburban Philadelphia. They've just starting to play out. They're sort of controversial, too. An unabashed skinhead band, Maximum Rock N Roll's Tim Yonannan refused to run an interview with them because they're skins, though their drummer has assured me that they're neither racists nor Nazis. Martin Sprouse later wrote to S.U. informing them that they would run the interview.

SUBURBAN UPRISE Live Demo II : This is a live tape done at Trenton, New Jersey's City Gardens earlier this month, during what I'd assume was S.U.'s first real big gig. For a demo, the sound quality is great, and for a live set, it's as tight as they come. They sound very original - not wnat you'd exceet froa a skinhead band in that the music is very melodious and the vccals are either sung or spoken, not growled or yelled. Although I don't agree with some of their ideas (in one song, "Land Of The Free", they suggest that those who don't want to fight for tne U.S. should get out), that does not influence my opinion of these guys. They're HOT! They rock! They mosh! Very good tunes like "No More Favors* and "Skinhead March". They will make a name, and soon, I predict. Only $1.50.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

DEVASTATION is a Chicago area death/thrash metal band that was formed in January of 1986 by drummer Pat Buckley and guitarist Erv Brautigam. The line-up is completed by Frank Ciamoi on bass, and new singer Bill. The deno was recorded with former vocalist Duane Rasmussen, who left to get married. The band is mainly influenced by AT WAR, SLAYER, MISFITS, and SAMHAIN, but Frank is into S.N.O.T., OUT OF ORDER, and GENERATION WASTE.

DEVASTATION "A Creation Of Ripping Death": Good, nightmarish thrash from this talented Chicago outfit. Eerie yet interesting tracks like "Cranial Hemorrage". "Nuclear Winter" amd two others. Recommended for death metallists only.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

CASBAH "Infinite Pain": This four track tape is truly excellent death metal from the land of the rising son. CASBAH is tight and heavy and the lyrics, in English, are of a better quality than your average "rotting corpse" fare. Despite the song titles ("Chain Song", "No More Slaughter", "Low Intensity Warfare", and the title track), the lyrics are not satanic. They're mostly ambiguous (at least to me!), but I can see some definite political statements. This is something quite original in death-aetal. This is absolutely superb thrash. The tape is well produced and lyrics are included. This one is hard to pass up.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

VISUAL DIFFERENCE is a hardcore band from Mesa, Arizona. They've been together for about a year. The current line-up is Dave Payne on guitar, Steve Baily on drums, Eric Oxbolow on bass, and Steve Difference on vocals. The name arises from how we all look different on the outside, yet we're all the same on the inside. Their songs deal with everyday problems and how to deal with this in a positive way. They stand strong in what they believe in. They had a demo out entitled "Live For Life", which is now out of print, but they plan another demo soon.

"Labels" by VISUAL DIFFERENCE

You label people but you don't knew how they are
Yeu don't look inside or very far
Who are you to accuse
Putting labels on whoever you choose

CHORUS:
Lick those labels / Put them on
Lick those labels / Stick them on
Lick those labels / Put them on

Friends go by your accusations
Not seeing for themselves
They only see the skin
Not looking deep within

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

HOLY TERROR is a thrash/ power metal band from California. The line-up consists of Kurt Kilfelt on guitars, Keith Deen on vocals, Mike Alvord on guitar and vocals, Floyd Flanary on bass, and Joe Mitchell, who replaced Jack Schwartz, on druas. Their debut album, "Terror and Submission", will be released soon on Music For Nations. No American record deal has been signed yet, so check out the import bin at your local record store.
HOLY TERROR "Terror and Submission" advance tape: This is a fine metal band that alternates between thrash tunes like EXODUS, and power metal tunes in the style of PRIEST and MAIDEN. The vocals are pretty good - no "grunting demons" here. Some tracks, like "Mortal Fear", have a riff that stays on your brain for a long time. Definitely worth checking out, if you'e into it. The high quality, long (9 tracks) tape costs only $4. Additional merchandise includes bumper stickers ($.50), pictures ($1), and tour shirts ($8).

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

UNITED is a Japanese thrasn metal band that formed in 1981. The new line-up is Yoshiyuki Furui on vocals, Masaki
Hara on guitar, Iwao Furusawa on guitar, Akihiro Yokoyasa on bass, and Tetsuo Takizawa on drusss. They appeared on a Japanese compilation album, and have just released their second demo/EP.
UNITED "Beast Dominate": Four pretty cool tunes in the ANTHRAX - S.O.D. vein. "S.R.S." and "Do You Wanna Die?" are mid-paced tunes, while "Holy Dive Screamer" and "Combat" are more powerful and a little catchier. An added attraction are the clear-English vocals. The 7" EP is $8 + $3 postage, while the tape of the EP is $4 + $3 postage.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

LAST OPTION was formed in February, 1985. They want to work to achieve not only a better scene, but a better world. They do this by attending protests (underground nuclear testing, No Business As Usual, etc.) and educating themselves and others. They would like to meet and correspond with others who share their beliefs (Anarcho-pacifism).

LAST OPTION demo #2: Crunching hardcore with sincere lyrics from this highly talented Arizona outfit. This is straight-forward HC with great vocals and some of the most powerful riffs that will ever jolt your cranium. A glimpse of great things to come.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

TERRORIZER is a 4-piece band from Southern California featuring Oscar on guitar and vocals, Jesse on guitar, Pete on drums, and Garvey on bass. They formed in early 1986 and are influenced by bands like early DISCHARGE and SUICIDAL TENDENCIES. Their lyrics deal with a large variety of subjects, from life and death to the effects of nuclear power to world issues today. However, they definitely have nothing to do with any type of religion whatsoever.
TERRORIZER rehersal/deao '87: Ultra heavy thrash that sounds like SLAYER gone hardcore. Much better than your normal thrash band, providing the death metal-style vocals and playing, while covering various lyrical topics.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

CORRUPTION is a hardcore band from Ocean County, with "Kid Wedge" on vocals, Billy Fiske on guitar, Brad Jackman on bass, and Steve Shears on drums.
CORRUPTION "Infest Of Rage": Excellent hardcore that should appeal to crossover fans as well. Lyrics deal with serious as well as humorous topics. Eight great tracks featuring unbridled speed and power and superb vocals. An all-around cool band. Lyrics and flyers included.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

WEHRMACHT is a thrash band with talent and originality especially in the fact they avoid "stupid" lyrics. They've been making a name for themselves for both their excellent music and drunken antics. They recently released their debut LP "Shark Attack", and have just returned from a tour with CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER. Here's an interview with party reptile Brian Lehfeldt.

WEHRMACHT is:
Marco, I8, guitar
John, 20, guitar
Tito, 18, yells
Brian, 18, drums
Shawn, 19, bass

Continue reading "WEHRMACHT" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

One of Philly's best hands and a personal favorite, RUIN, have broken up.

SERIAL KILLERS will probably begin playing again in the near future (I hope so!).

Two more Philly favorites, H0M0 PICNIC anc SCRAM have released albums {"Days Of Grey" and "Stand Up", respectively). Both of these bands are quite good, so check them out.

LEGITIMATE REASON will be releasing a four song EP on Plus Records. By the way, they are currently looking for a new singer.

Rave Records is preparing a Philly compilation called "Discpan Hands" which features TRAINED ATTACK DOGS, DEADSPOT, SHE-MALE ENCOUNTERS, LEGITIMATE REASON, ANTHROPHOBIA, PAGAN BABIES, BLUE, and MCRAD.

EAB is putting the finishing touches on an eleven song studio demo that will include such songs as "Sinful Past", "Keep The Scene", and "Money Is Burned'*. Those mad bullfrogs went over so well at a recent show at the Philly Cookbook that they may open for AGNOSTIC FRONT at Club Pizazz in late August.

FLAG OF DEMOCRACY are currently touring with A.O.D. to promote their excellent debut LP "Shatter Your Day".

SUBURBAN UPRISE have changed their nase to THE UPRISE.

Philly skins RETRIBUTOIN are currently looking for a new guitarist (you don't have to skin, though).

And now for national news:

Continue reading "Scene Report" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

60-100 million animalls are sacrificed each year in our nation's hospitals, universities, goverment laboratories, and private institutions. Contrary to what most of the general pubic think, the bulk of animal experimentation consists of duplicative, painful, costly, and unnecessary forms of research. Here are a few examples of what we pay for today:

* $1,000,000 to study the mother love of monkeys and apes: In a series of experiments at the University of Wisconsin, dozens of chimpanzees, our nearest relatives, were taken away from their mothers at birth, and kept isolated in bare, wire cages for periods of five to eight years. While in solitary confinement, their behavior was observed through one-way glass. Conclusion: animals so confined develop stereo-typed, compulsive behaviors such as clasping their hands and rocking, or chewing themselves raw.

Continue reading "GREY MATTER: Some of the Abuses Our Taxes Support" »

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

CASBAH is a brilliant thrash/death metal band from Japan. They have released 2 demos that have sold very well. They were offered a five year recording contract by Combat Noise, but turned it down because they were unable to come to exact terms. Their latest release, "Infinite Pain", snows their power, talent, and originality. We had a talk with vocalist Taka Hatori on the future of CASBAH, and the scene in Japan.

CASBAH is :
Taka Hatori, 23, vocals
Ryo Murayama, 24, guitar
Kouichi Mitani, 19, bass
Takashi Usui, 21, drums

Continue reading "CASBAH" »

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LOOKING BACK: Though the band and their work didn't really endure the test of time, I still remember this interview fondly thanks to the candor of Joe Butcher. I don't know if was his humorous answers to my generic questions, the self-effacing way he admitted that the band name and album concept were influenced by the label's heavy marketing hand, or the fact that he was a plumber by day, this interview makes we want to dig out my old Ludichrist LP. -- Tony

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

LUDICHRIST is another great N.Y. hardcore band, though they possess a slightly different sound than their counterparts. They had the hardcore/metal scene on the ropes with their highly successful demo, and then executed a perfect knock-out punch with their debut LP, "lmmaculate Deception". Well, enough boxing analogies, and on with the interview.

LUDICHRIST is
Tommy Christ, 24, vocals, beer
Glen Cummings, 21, guitar, beer
Joe Butcher, 19, guitar
Chuck Valle, 20, bass
Tony J. Scaglione, temporary drummer

THREATENING SOCIETY: How long has the band been together?
JOE BUTCHER: We have been together for two years, with a few
variations in the line-up.
TS: How did the band form?
JB: It was originally fomed by Al Batross and Mark Durnex. Chuck and Tony joined later and then Glen was added to the line-up. Mark then quit the band like an idiot, and was replaced by ME!

Continue reading "LUDICHRIST" »

Posted by Editor at 09:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

AT WAR is a hard thrashing hand who hail from the unlikely setting of Virginia. They have made a name for themselves with their ripping debut, "Ordered To Kill". They now plan to continue their onslaught with a second LP. We spoke with Paul Arnold, who handles both the vocals and the bass chores.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What's the current line-up?
PAUL ARNOLD: The line-up we have now is the same line-up we've had since we started, and hopefully, it will be the only line-up we ever have. It is: Shawn Helsel on guitars, Dave Stone on drums, and I do the vocals and bass.

Continue reading "AT WAR" »

Posted by Editor at 09:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

This is a band that has gained a lot of respect and critical acclaim from their demos and select live performances in the New York area. PRONG does what they do best on this seven track effort: a comfortable but not patronizing blend of hardcore, metal and industrial sounds. (Yes, industrial. That doesn't aean they use power drills and buzzsaws, it just provides the guitar with a unique sound). This whole album gleams with originality and is very refreshing. Oh yeah, a cool cover by the art god Sean Taggart. Available on Mr. Bear Records.

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[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

This album left me satisfied and disappointed at the same time. Satisfied, when they crank out such gems as "Set Me Free", "Best Friends", and the title track. But disappointed, when they deliver far below what they're capable of. I mean, they're talented musicians, and Scotty Wilkins' vocals are great, but a few tracks are just lackluster. I still like this band, but I hope their next LP will allow them to reach their potential.

Posted by Editor at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

Four tracks of powerful hardcore which combine a heavy sound, throaty vocals, and very strange lyrics to make a good yet eerie record. Kind of noisy, but done in a way that adds rather than detracts from the overall sound. Good job

Posted by Editor at 08:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

Wow! This 7" shows excellent hardcore which draws in influences from countless other forms of music. All five tracks are richly diverse and very, very enjoyable. While "Everybody Fight" and "Godmen Of The Future" opt for uncompromising hardcore, "Sing Thru Me" and "Grandma (I'm A Drug Fiend)" display more melodious sounds and great vocals. The title track is really good, with its thrash-thrash-thrash format and hilarious lyrics. Hats off to great MUSIC and originality! (Subcore Records)

Posted by Editor at 08:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

I really liked this band's first LP for its power and the fact that there were often several rhythms in each song. Now, with their second LP, they keep all of the positive qualities of "Convicted" while showing a certain progression; that is, it's not the same old stuff rehashed. They have even added a brief guitar solo to two or three tracks which are done in a skillful way as to keep it from becoming boring. Lyrics deal with politics, world/national affairs, and personal politics. A very good album.

Posted by Editor at 08:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

Unity is a word you hear a lot these days, and personally, I'm pro-unity 'cause I truly believe that united we're stronger and united we can win and really change things while divided we fall and lose.

Still, I have my criticism on certain forms of unity or how people interpret it.

Let me explain.

In my opinion, there are many wrong and stupid things happening under the flag of unity here in Europe and also in the U.S.A. You see punks and bands unite with let's say Nazi punks/skins, right-wingers, etc. all in the name of unity. Let's be kind to each other, stand together.

Yeah, great bro, or so it sounds. Sorry, but I can't be friends or unite with racists, right-wingers, sexists, Raabo-lovers, etc. No way. I won't compromise or sell out my own ideals or views just for unity's sake.

Continue reading "GREY MATTER: "Unity" by Paul of LARM" »

Posted by Editor at 08:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

A really cool comp featuring 14 bands performing 33 songs. The sound quality varies, but most of the time it's above average. There are a lot of good bands here, especially TRANSGRESSOR and LOSS FOR WORDS. Some of the other bands are GENERATION WASTE, BLOODCUM, arid NECROPOLIS. A thoroughly enjoyable tape which promises a bright future for many of these young bands. Also a good sampler of new thrash-core bands.

Posted by Editor at 10:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

No, no - they're still defunct. This is a posthumous release, possibly to satisfy fans, for one release wasn't snougn to quench their desire for more from this once great D.C. band. But, this is definitely net a swan song. It's comparable to MINOR THREAT'S "Salad Says: EP, but only the fact that Dischord released both after the bands broke up. MINOR THREAT's EP had them go out with one last bang - their best release. But unfortunately, RITES OF SPRING didn't follow this example. The sound, I feel, is similar to their Dischord LP, but the power is lessened - more subdued. This may appeal to some people - not to me. Their non-melodious sound interests me, but doesn't keep me amused. The lyrics seem to be just a little too poetic for my taste. I'n not going to play games. I really feel my musical tastes are mature, but maybe not mature enough. (Dischord Records)

Posted by Editor at 10:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

Hot dog! One of my (and many other's) ail-time faorites. This LP is fabulous! An absolute must for anyone who's ever liked G.I. Among the studio-quality classics recorded live mainly on the East coast between 1982 and 1985 are "Hall Of Fame" (my personal favorite), "Fun and Games", "Hour Of One", and "Understand*. It also includes two interviews. Put simply, GET IT! You really won't be sorry. (Mystic Records)

Posted by Editor at 10:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

The past year has been very good for Philly bands - yet another strong(!) debut LP for a long time Philly favorite. HOMO PICNIC have also been rocking the scene with their distinct sound for quite a while, and hopefully it will be appreciated by otner scenes once tney hear this LP. It's great - no less. They describe themselves as rich kids playing heavy metal, but their sound is far from metal. It's also far from hardcore. It's not crossover, either. I'd say this trio takes influences froa many different types of music, coming together to form an almost indescribable blend - powerfui, melodious, complicated stuff. The vocals don't really fit in with the lyrics and music. But this is a small consideration, as the MUSIC totally overshadows the vocals anyway. Send the lyric sheet too - great, personal stuff in the same vein as EMBRACE and DAG NASTY. I recommend this LP thoroughly. (Plus Records)

Posted by Editor at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

I seriously believe Philadelphia will soon be recognized as THE national hotbed of underground susic, and SCRAM is definitely on of the leaders in this group of fine, talented musicians. SCRAM's only other vinyl outings were on compilations, I believe. They had one track on the immenseiy popular 4-song Philly compilation "That Was Then, This Is Now", and one on the more recent Positive Force compilation, "Another Shot for Bracken." And now, finally, they have an LP out! The Philly scenesters well know, SCRAM has been a definite mainstay in our scene for a few years new, delighting fans with their very desirable sounding blend of reggae, Ska, and hardcore. This well-produced disc shows off their considerable talent, bringing thea to the recognition of the rest of the U.S. Tracks which stand out are their immensely popular anthem ''Stand Up", an excellent cover of Join Lennon's "Imagine" (better than the original?), and the love song "Something To Cling To." Powerful stuff throughout! Well worth the wait. (BYO Records)

Posted by Editor at 10:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally Published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

DAG NASTY’s “Can I Say” has been a musical and emotional favorite of ours. For this reason, we were very happy to obtain an interview with them. However, we must apologize for the brevity of this interview. The members neglected (or refused?) to answer several of our questions. Perhaps this was our fault. Since “Can I Say,” they have undergone almost total line-up revision (the only original remember is Brian Baker) and now seem reluctant to discuss their past and former members. Well, for what it’s worth, here goes.

Threatening Society: What’s the current line-up?
Brian Baker: Brian Baker, guitar; Doug Carrion (ex-DESCENDENTS), bass; Peter Cortner, vocals. No permanent drummer. London May (ex-SAMHAIN) filling in on tour.

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Posted by Editor at 08:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

[Originally Published: Issue #3, circa 1987]

The CRO-MAGS are a truly unique band, both for their superior talent and their unrivaled devotion to their beliefs. Many derogatory things have been written about the CRO-MAGS, specifically in Maximum Rock N Roll. However, they have not been given the chance to respond since many of the people at MRR are, in my opinion, close-minded and decidedly anti-skin. Before a recent show in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, bassist Harley Flanagan took time out from his busy schedule to talk with us about the band and his fascinating personal beliefs.

THREATENING SOCIETY: How long has the band been together?
HARLEY FLANAGAN: The CRO-MAGS originally formed in 1981, but we disbanded for a while. We each went off and did our own things for a couple of years, and then we reformed. We’ve only been working with this drummer and this guitar player for about a year. Doug Holland used to play for KRAUT. But the CRO-MAGS, as a concept and a band, began in 1981.

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