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April 08, 2006

UNIFORM CHOICE

Uniform Choice

LOOKING BACK: If there was any subculture of the punk scene I drifted towards, it was straight edge. Initially drawn by the music and power of many of the striaght-edge bands -- especially the NYHC bands of the 80s -- I was a stringent straight edge dude. Except no Xs on the hands, as I always thought that was kinda retarded. Of course, it was pretty easy to be straight edge when you lived a high school existence of not parties and no intertested girls. (LOTS of videogames, however.) Nevertheless, I quickly lost the edge, within a couple of months in college. .. In any case, I was a HUGE UNIFORM CHOICE fan. I even had their "Drugs and Booze, The Sure Way to Lose" shirt. I was thrilled by their live performance, and even more excited by interviewing them in the Club Pizazz parking lot after a show. I remained an avid fan until I heard their follow-up to "Screaming for Change" -- methinks it was called "Staring Into the Sun" (referred to in this interview as "A Wish to Dream"). Last I heard their singer, Pat Dubar, was in Corporate Avenger -- his stage name is "Adawee the Wind". "Adawee wears various kinds of paint, all meant to 'remind him of his ancestors (the Cherokee Indians) who would paint their face when they went to war, and says that they are also fighting a war; a war of ideas.' Pat is the dude on the left in the picture here. Hmmmmm. -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

Although they only had one piece of vinyl released, UNIFORM CHOICE has become a definite force to be reckoned with in the hardcore scene. Their fast, hard-driving sound, complemented by intelligent, gritty lyrics have made them favorites of many Straight-Edgers and non Straight-Edgers alike. We had the extreme pleasure of talking with the band when they passed through Philly on their recent U.S. tour.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What's your line-up?
PAT LONGRIE: I’m Pat Longrie, I play drums.
VIC MAYNEZ: I'm Vic Maynez, I play guitar.
PAT DUBAR: I’m Pat Dubar. I sing.
DAVE MELLOW: I'm Dave Mellow. I play bass.

Continue reading "UNIFORM CHOICE" »

7 SECONDS / JUSTICE LEAGUE / SCRAM / THE CORRUPTED ONES / FAIL SAFE

Stage Dive

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

July 31, 1987 Club Pizazz, Phila., PA [Tony]

Before the show even started, they announced the bad news: 7 SECONDS' bus broke down in New York and they wouldn't be able to make it. The door price was dropped to $6 (from $8) to try to atone for this loss.

FAIL SAFE and THE CORRUPTED ONES also played on this bill, but we didn't see then because we were in Kentucky Fried Chicken with JUSTICE LEAGUE. Even though I’m not familiar with these two bands, I would've liked to see them. Besides, I think people should support the opening acts on any bill, especially T.C.O., who were not even scheduled to play. We hope to cover both of these bands in our mag in the future.

Continue reading "7 SECONDS / JUSTICE LEAGUE / SCRAM / THE CORRUPTED ONES / FAIL SAFE" »

April 07, 2006

DESECRATION

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

DESECRATION is a hardcore band from Arizona who have received a lot of praise for their "Who's In Control" EP, which is now sold out. Here's an interview with DESECRATION'S vocalist, Jack.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What is your line-up?
JACK: As of 7/25/87, the band consists of the same ever-loving family as it did with the original line-up in July of 1985. It's me (Jack), screams, yells, and political statements, 19 years old; Andy, bass, 17; Erik, drums, 20; and Dave, guitars, 16.

TS: Can you give me a band history?
JACK: Well, let's see... Dave and Erik used to get together and jam all the time. At the time, I was taking a sociology class at Arizona State University and came home on the weekends to see what was up. Anyway, Dave played me this really groovy tune, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I decided it was about time we got a band together. I took all my hard-earned money from the bank account and bought a PA. We had our first practice with an old friend, Andy, who was kind of into the same stuff we were. The song I heard that fateful day would be the first DESECRATION AZ/HC song ever written - an anti-war song called "It's Just Begun”.

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THE DEHUMANIZERS "End of Time" LP

End of Time

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

A pretty cool LP from this Seattle outfit. Of the 21 "tracks", about 15 of them are actual songs and the rest are very short selections of a cheering crowd and other stuff (when put all together, it pleasantly reminds one of a Monty Python record). These songs, as the ones on the "Kill Lou Guzzo" EP, all draw on various musical influences to make this album diverse and kind of interesting. Even though their EP is funnier, this LP is OK. I would've liked to see all five tracks from the EP redone here, but only a speedier version of "Grandma, I’m a Drug Fiend" is present. Hope to hear more from this band in the future. (Subcore)

April 06, 2006

JUSTICE LEAGUE

Justice League

LOOKING BACK: One of my first 7" ever was an EP from JUSTICE LEAGUE, "Think or Sink." Lyrics and music that sounded like they were done by a bunch of 15 year olds -- which resonated with me, because I was 15 years old. They ended up with a more sophisticated sound, losing the youthful goofiness/energy. But as I became older and more sophsticated *cough* I vibed right along with them, and was THRILLED to meet the band in person. The meeting happened at a KFC across the street from Club Pizazz, which was about the only place open nearby on a Sunday afternoon. In true fanzine fashion, I didn't buy them a goddamned thing. From what I remember, our chat was really loose and casual, and they seemed like they were having a good time. Or they were just good liars, and wanted to get the hell outta there. (And so you know this interview is pretty old: Check out my awe when I find out their new release will be on *gasp* CD!) Anyway, Ryan and Chris formed lengendary straight-edge band CHAIN OF STRENGTH. (And, as a point of trivia, Chris was in a band called Inside Out with some guy named Zack de la Rocha, who was in a later started a band called RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE.) -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

JUSTICE LEAGUE is a fantastic band, with one of the most intricate and powerful sounds in the scene. Although their last LP, "Shattered Dreams”, didn't achieve half the recognition it should have, they will definitely make a name for themselves with their new LP entitled "Reach Out” and their national tour this summer. We had a chance to speak with the band in Kentucky Fried Chicken before a show.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What's your line-up?
MARC: Here. I play bass and I’m 20.
JOHN: I'm John. Vocals, guitar, and I’m 20.
RYAN: l'm Ryan. Guitar, vocals, l'm I8.
MATT: l'm Matt. I play guitar and l'm I8.
CHRIS: My name's Chris. I play drums and I’m 18.

Continue reading "JUSTICE LEAGUE" »

THE DEHUMANIZERS

The Dehumanizers
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

THE DEHUMANIZERS are a band that have endured numerous line-up changes and legal hassles to emerge as one of the premiere hardcore bands in their area, and throughout the United States. Their music draws in influences from countless other sources, as thusly appeals to a wide audience of "alternative music" fans. We had the opportunity to talk with these guys, who have a great sense of humor, as displayed in their music.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What is the new line-up?
MUDDY WATANABE: The current line-up includes myself, who recently replaced Intense on bass; Infra Ed on drums and backing vocals; Gobot on lead vocals; and Troll on lead guitar, who replaced Zoli quite a while back.

Continue reading "THE DEHUMANIZERS" »

BGK

BGK

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

BGK is a hardcore band from Holland whose members have been involved in punk since the beginning. Many Philly scenesters got to see them live about a year ago at the Kennel Club. We spoke with their guitarist, Tony Slug, about the new BGK.

THREATENING SOCIETY: What is the band’s line-up?
TOM NITWIT: Mattis, 24, bass. Tony, 24, guitar and vocals, Marcel, 25, drums. Other members of the band are Wouter (driver and telephone guy), and Martin (help). You see, at the present, we have no singer, so we're trying to play as a three piece with yours truly trying to sing and play guitar. We'll just nave to see now that works out.

TS: How long has BGK been together?
TN: BGK started m 1982. Before that, three members had been in a different band together, since 1976. It was a punk band called the NITWITZ.

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TOKEN ENTRY "From Beneath the Streets" LP

Token Entry

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

Great hardcore from New York that is rather original in a way that it's very different from standard NYHC and it also more-or-less avoids the cliche straight-edge sound and lyrics. This band really rocks. I won't go on and on about it - just hear for yourself and you'll know what I mean. (Positive Force)

MDL "In the Midst of Delusions" demo

MDL
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

MDL was formed on June 5, 1985, in Ellensburg, Washington - a small redneck/college town in the middle of the state. A scene in Ellensburg is basically unheard of due to many factors - including the remoteness of the area and tne conservatism of its citizens. Altnougn lately, bands have begun to pop up and snows occur every couple of months. The band was originally called THE DEAD LENINZ, and the line-up is Baf Lenin on vocals, Blare Lenin on guitar, Biff Lenin on bass and Bash Lenin on drums. MDL released their first demo, "Mother Rose's Basement” on their own label, Lenin Comps.

MDL "In the Midst of Delusions”: This is some really cool stuff - I guess you would call it "garage punk*" if you were into labels. This banc reminds me of the early DEAD KENNEDYS, while also sounding like the old DEAD MILKMEN, yet not quite as nerdy. Cool rhythms by good musicians and a good vocalist singing (is that a new word?) both serious and humorous topics. 16 songs on a digitally mastered tape which lasts 30 minutes and lyrics are included. Incredible! Also write for info on the first MDL demo and other Lenin Comps tapes.

YOUTH OF TODAY “Can't Close My Eyes" EP

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

This EP was released a while before this band put out that great LP, “Break Down the Walls''. This 7 track 7" shows the band a bit rawer, yet still as powerful. Besides the decent musicianship and vocal prowess of Ray of Today, all of these songs are great (especially "Expectations” and "Youth Crew"). The only problem (a tiny one) that I could see are the cliche straight-edge lyrics which are easily overlooked. This EP is simply one of the best I ever heard. (Positive Force)

PEDIFILE "Round 2" demo

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

PEDIFILE is a death metal band from Arizona. They will be appearing on an upcoming Death Records comp.

PEDIFILE "Round 2”: This band's first demo hinted at a good future in this genre and this second demo should send them well off into that direction. SLAYER-inspired death metal with ambiguous lyrics and titles ("Fallacious Vindication”). Many 'zines (including TS) have slagged PEDIFILE off 'cause of the high pitched screams on the first demo. Well, they are totally non-existent on "Round 2". Now, even though I didn't like those screams (though I realize the training it takes), I think it's a real shame when any band changes their sound because of "peer pressure.” If you're heavily into death-metal, check this one out. It costs $4, but you can get the demo and a PEDIFILE t-shirt (which Lars Ulrich from METALLlCA has seen sporting) for $8.

UNlFORM CHOICE / PAGAN BABIES / THE UPRISE / LEGITIMATE REASON / VISION

Stage Dive

LOOKING BACK: The UPRISE scared me. I was always scared of skins. I always thought they would kick the shit out of me. When we put on the FUGAZI show, I had visions of the AC Skins storming the show and trashing the joint. (Why skinheads from Atlantic City were particulary mean, I dunno, but I heard creepy stories. And why the hell they'd want to see FUGAZI play, is beyond me as well). But the UPRISE where actually pretty nice guys. ANYWAY, this show was particularly solid. Even the opening band, VISION, ended up making a name for themselves. I remember being particularly weirded out by UNIFORM CHOICE, whose members wore all black, and whose singer, Pat Dubar, had long ebony locks -- a far cry from his shorn bean on the "Screaming for Change" LP. -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

UNlFORM CHOICE / PAGAN BABIES / THE UPRISE / LEGITIMATE REASON / VISION
August 8, Club Pizazz, Phila., PA [Mickey]

Continue reading "UNlFORM CHOICE / PAGAN BABIES / THE UPRISE / LEGITIMATE REASON / VISION" »

GUNSLINGERS demo '87

Gunslingers
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

If you saw a copy of Threatening Society #3, you've seen the interview with GUNSLINGERS, and you know that they are a hot new hand from Fullerton, California. They are currently on tour with Flipside Record's D0GGY STYLE. If you didn't see number three, the above is true, and get that issue!

GUNSLINGERS '87 demo: Yes, GUNSLINGERS is a Southern Cal. band, but without that typical, almost cliched sound. It's not your three-chord repetitive punk music. A lot of thought and practice (and talent!) must nave gone into the writing and execution of these eight songs - which I can only compare to a combination of DAG NASTY and "New Wind" 7 SECONDS, with the raw tinge of ‘77 punk. The guitar and vocals are the definite stars of this band - both overshadow the rhythm section (which is very good, also). It leaves the melodious tunes in your head for a long time after the tape player's off. The lyrics (sung beautifully) deal with very personal topics. They're written well, and mercifully, they're not pretentious. An all-together fantastic job. Please, someone sign these guys!

I DENY EP

I Deny

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

Very good Italian hardcore that's a little reminiscent of RAW POWER, maybe even faster and sore powerful. Five good songs - four in Italian and one in English (all lyrics included). The non-English songs may sound a bit strange the first tine you listen to them, but you will quickly become used to it and see that this band rips.

April 05, 2006

YOUTH UNDER CONTROL

Youth Under Control
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

YOUTH UNDER CONTROL is another great band from Arizona who, like LAST OPTlON and DESECRATION, stand strong for what they believe in. Which in this case, is straignt-edge. Here's an interview with Jason, YUC’s guitarist.

THREATENING SOCIETY: Who's in the band?
JASON: Jim W. (I6) vocals, Jason (I8) guitar, Eric (15) drums, Jim P. (I9) bass (Although we just kicked him out. We are working in a new bass player.), AleX (16) guitar. We've had many line-ups in the last year and a half, but this one has done the most and is the most permanent. We have been together with this line-up since December, 1986.

Continue reading "YOUTH UNDER CONTROL" »

EPILEPTIC ALBINO BULLFROGS demo '87

EAB
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

EPILEPTIC ALBINO BULLFROGS is a hardcore band from Philly. Their line-up consists of Steve Spagnuola on vocals, Scott Helig on drums, Bob Belcher on guitar, and Rob Lipschutz on bass. They've been getting a lot of exposure by playing local shows, and appearing in some zines (including TS #1).

EAB demo '87?: This is the long-awaited demo from this up and rising local band. I've watched this band grow and progress musicaily, and this eleven tracks affair offers a good, fairly tight harcdore sound with some decent lyrics. The first song, “Death Mobiles" (about poorly-built cars), may deceive you because of its "metal” sound. But E.A.B. are not metal, even though their music has a distinct heavy edge. Anyway, "Criminal at Large", "Sinful Past", and "Keep The Scene" are among the best songs here. At only $2 in the U.S. and $3 elsewhere, this tape is a real bargain.

April 03, 2006

NUCLEAR DEATH "Welcome to the Kings of the Morbid" demo

Nuclear Death logo
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

NUCLEAR DEATH is a death-thrash band from Arizona, with Lori (20) on vocals and bass, Phil (20) on guitar, and Joel (19) on drums. They have released a previous demo and have been covered in such illustrious mags as "Metal Forces" and "Total Thrash".

NUCLEAR DEATH "Welcome to the Kings of the Morbid" demo: Having heard a lot of good things about this band, I was quite anxious to hear this demo. Unfortunately, it did not reach my expectations (but who cares?). Anyway, this is very, VERY fast thrash with surprising female vocals - surprising because they sound just like a guy. I think NUCLEAR DEATH would be a good band if they slowed down a bit. Another thing that didn't tickle my fancy was the horror lyrics. NOW, as a connoisseur of fine death metal, I can tolerate most gore lyrics. But these lyrics are not only unsavory, but they are also ludicrous bordering on the sublime (specifically "Necrobestiality")! I can't strongly recommend this demo, but you might want to check it out because a lot of folks I know dig this and it just may not be my cup of tea. This four track tape with lyric sheet (unfortunately) costs $4 in the U.S. and $5 elsewhere.

MULTIPLE STAB WOUNDS "What's All This Then?" demo

Multiple Stand Wounds

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

MULTIPLE STAB WOUNDS is a thrash band from Connecticut consisting of Totie Herman on vocals, Jeff Fahy on lead and rhythm guitars, Brian Duca on drums and Ian Miller on lead and rhythm bass. They've been around for a little over a year, and are trying to convince the world that anarchy is the only way for rational beings to live. The bassist, Ian, would also like to dissuade people from hurting themselves with chemicals.

MULTIPLE STAB WOUNDS "What's All This Then?" demo: Excellent thrash music which is burdened by mindlessly violent lyrics, especially in "Slam To Kill.” However, Ian has informed me that the new-sound is much better, in that the music is more "shredding” and the message is much more positive. The music is already very tight and technical (especially displayed in the MAIDEN-like “Call To Arms”, which is not indicative of their regular sound) and I think the addition of better lyrics which are wore reflective of their personal beliefs should make MSW an all-around good band. This five track tape costs $3 in the US, and $5 elsewhere.

INNER STRENGTH

Inner Strength

LOOKING BACK: Wanted a FALSE LIBERTY interview. Sent a request to the singer, Greg Anderson. Got sent back an INNER STRENGTH interview; apparently, I was pretty late, and FALSE LIBERTY had been broken up for a while. (C'mon now... this is before the Internet... word travelled much slower back then!) Greg went on to lead the infamous straight-edge band BROTHERHOOD as well as ENGINE KID, and more recently GOATSNAKE, sunn0)) and THORR'S HAMMER. I believe he runs Southern Lord Records. -- Mickey

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

From the broken pieces of FALSE LIBERTY comes...INNER STRENGTH!
Greg – vocals
Hank - guitar
Brian – drums
Jeff - bass

THREATENING SOCIETY: How long have you been playing your instruments?
GREG: These are sort of educated guesses! Brian - 2 years, Hank - 4 years, Jeff - 7 years.

TS: Can you give a brief history of the band?
GREG: After FALSE LIBERTY broke up, Greg and the drummer Vic wanted to start again. So the other members were found and it was complete. Then Vic totally pulled an irresponsible selfish move on the other members so we got a different drummer. Our first practice with the new line-up was July 6th, 1987.

Continue reading "INNER STRENGTH" »

A SUBTLE PLAGUE 1986 demo

A Subtle Plague

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

A SUBTLE PLAGUE was formed in 1984 in the Hudson Valley area of New York, where four of its five members were attending Bard College. They gigged mainly in the Hudson Valley, opening up often for a Poughkeepsie band called AGITPOP. In 1985, the band took a hiatus while its singer studied in England. They re-formed in January, 1986, recording a tape and opening up for FIREHOSE and SONIC YOUTH at Bard and for THE FEELIES at Vassar College. A.S.P., now situated in Philadelphia, has once again taken a hiatus, as two members deal with immigration and say goodbye to relatives (one is from West Germany, the other from West Africa). They will continue in September, playing as often as possible.

A SUBTLE PLAGUE '86 demo: A.S.P. is a band that has a sound all their own, far from punk or hardcore, But in no way, judging by the four songs on this demo, mainstream. It has a definite BUTTHOLE SURFERS/FLlPPER feel, in that A.S.P. is very experimental, with excellent use of a saxophone and various percussion devices. But make no mistake - these five are true musicians, with sounds ranging from funk, to blues, to reggae, to punk. It's also a sound that MUST be heard. Four totally diverse songs come together to make this tape a must for anyone who enjoys a little adventure in their music. Interesting lyrics, too. Check it out.

April 02, 2006

PRONG

Prong logo

LOOKING BACK: Listening to PRONG again, they don't have a sound that really stands out anymore, but that could be that the thrashing that sounded fresh has been reduced to background noise by the countless "nu-metal" bands churned off the major labels' assembly lines. In any case, this band had already started to enjoy some success yet were more than willing to pass some time with our humble zine. Also, they recently re-formed around one of the original members and are recording and touring again.

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

PRONG (prong) n. 1) any pointed projected part 2) a unique trio from New York who play an original blend of hardcore, metal, and industrial sounds, consisting of Mike Kirkland (MK) on bass and vocals, Ted Parsons (TP) on drums and background vocals, and Tommy Victor (TV) on guitar and vocals.
Here's an interview with this talented threesome.

TS: How long has the tend been together?
MK: One year. Tommy and I started writing songs a couple of months before Ted joined the band.
TS: How did the band form?
TV: Well, we had some songs, and we got Ted to drum and arrange and then it took off. Ted and I had jammed before I met Mike.

Continue reading "PRONG" »

LAST OPTION

Last Option logo

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

LAST OPTION is an excellent hardcore band from Mesa, Arizona. They have released two great demos which show a very bright future. Aside from being talented musicians, they are also politically active and well-educated in national and world events. We spoke with guitarist, Dave Schaller.

THREATENING SOCIETY: Who's in the band?
DAVE SCHALLER: LAST OPTION is Jeff, I8, on vocals, Audrey, 17, on drums, Jason, 17, on bass, and me (Dave), 18, on guitar.

Continue reading "LAST OPTION" »

DEAD KENNEDYS "Give Me Convenience or Give Be Death" LP

Give Me Convenience...
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

The now defunct DEAD KENNEDYS have had a string of popular tunes throughout the years. But this isn't a greatest hits LP - it's a compilation of b-sides, unreleased tunes, and two or three well known ones (all adding up to 17 tracks - 15 on the album and two more on the flexi). I love it, but then again, I'M a diehard DK's fan. Great stuff, but I'M not sure I'd recommend it to someone who isn't into them. Also comes with a nifty magazine, with a page for each track, telling about the track and where it first appeared. (Alternative Tentacles)

Various Artists "Together” EP

Together
[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

I'm a big fan of newer NY hardcore, so this EP, to me, is fantastic! Seven bands get to strut their stuff (one song each), compiled by Ray of Today (of YOUTH OF TODAY). All the bands are good - no complaints about any of their music or lyrics. But some REALLY stand out. BOLD Is a band that has really matured since their CRIPPLED YOUTH days (especially lyrically), giving the best tune on the EP with "Talk Is Cheap”. SIDE BY SIDE comes off sounding great, too -- talented musicians with a message, as heard on their track, "V.T.F.” YOUTH OF TODAY, as usual, sounds fantastic with their live recording of "Together”. Other bands who appear are WARZONE, SICK OF IT ALL, SUPERTOUCH, and GORILLA BISCUITS.

PAGAN BABIES "Immaculate Conception" EP

Pagan Babies

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

PAGAN BABIES are a definite favorite of the Philly scene (see show review - Ed.), delighting them with their all out energetic, excellent live performances. But I have never heard them sound as good as they do on this EP. Their MUSIC, which varies from the melodic "Dreams" to the slow, eerie "Clearing the Blur", shows how diverse their sounds can be. For what the lyrics lack their singer makes us for 100 times over, with his mixture of singing and emitting high-pitched yells. This whole EP shows what punk rock should be - raw, energetic, and dedicated. Get it! (Plus Records)

DAG NASTY “Wig Out at Denko's” LP

Wig Out

[Originally published: Issue #4, circa 1987]

Remember way back in issue number one huring the review of DOGGY STYLE'S "Last Laugh” LP, I commented what a waste it was that two fine musicians like Brian Baker and Doug Carrion were playing in a band like that? Well, my wishes came true - both are now in DAG NASTY (the drummer and Brian are the only original members). The "Last Laugh” is a laugh compared to DAG NASTY'S new LP. It's absolutely incredible. It may not be too popular with DAG NASTY fans (although I’m an avid one!), as for the most part, it's not as thrashy. No power has been lost here -- he intensity remains, and the same vein of lyrics, although not as vague as on the "Can I Say* LP, is evident. It's an ambitious effort, as they delve into a slower, more musically oriented sound. The old sound can be found too, as heard in songs like “Simple Minds,” "Safe,” and “Dag Nasty". The LP, as a whole, requires many listenings for one to really get into it. While doing it, try to forget their first LP. It's a different band, who has put out the best LP so far in 1987. (Dischord)