Audio By Carbonatix
Politically charged punk rock has always been an iffy thing to take on. Bands start off with a hopeful anarchistic stance and, if able to survive for longer than a couple of small tours, inevitably end up at that music-industry fork in the road. It’s usually a question of going down paths with uncertain promises of profits and wider exposure — which can alienate bull-headed fans armed with the sellout stamp — or riding a creative and professional plateau in order to maintain a focused audience. What the hell is a punk-rock kid supposed to do? Here’s some advice: Follow Strike Anywhere. The Richmond-based outfit has avoided ridiculous scene politics by staying true to simple work ethics — without compromising the core of its pro-activism ideals. Dead FM, released earlier this year on Fat Wreck, is a one-two punch of bleeding-gut politico hardcore that, in the mess of today’s ’70s rock revival and drone-metal fervor, sounds as fresh as the Gorilla Biscuits did in 1989. Despite Dead‘s musical echo of the group’s past efforts, Strike Anywhere is in pure fist-raising form — and thank the punk-rock gods for that.
When news happens, Westword is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.
We’re aiming to raise $50,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to this community. If Westword matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.
