Dying Scene

DS Exclusive: Mulva – “Get Better”

Midwest indie punkers Mulva (featuring members of Amuse) announced that they have a new single coming out on May 12th called “Get Better” and before they release it to the general public (aka schmucks), they wanted DS readers to get an exclusive first listen. So, put your ears on and get to it, comrades! And […]

Midwest indie punkers Mulva (featuring members of Amuse) announced that they have a new single coming out on May 12th called “Get Better” and before they release it to the general public (aka schmucks), they wanted DS readers to get an exclusive first listen. So, put your ears on and get to it, comrades! And while you’re at it, also be sure to check out their previous single “Grumpy Old Punk (Hypocrite)”. It ripzzz!

by Staff Writer AnarchoPunk.LA
Tags: 
Amuse DIY indie punk Midwest Punk Milwaukee

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DS Record Radar: This Week in Punk Vinyl (Rancid, Authority Zero, The Offspring & more)

Greetings, and welcome to the Dying Scene Record Radar. If it’s your first time here, thank you for joining us! This is the weekly column where we cover all things punk rock vinyl; new releases, reissues… you name it, we’ve probably got it. Kick off your shoes, pull up a chair, crack open a cold […]

Greetings, and welcome to the Dying Scene Record Radar. If it’s your first time here, thank you for joining us! This is the weekly column where we cover all things punk rock vinyl; new releases, reissues… you name it, we’ve probably got it. Kick off your shoes, pull up a chair, crack open a cold one, and break out those wallets, because it’s go time. Let’s get into it!

Check out the video edition of this week’s Record Radar, presented by our friends at Punk Rock Radar:

By now you’ve probably heard that Rancid‘s got a new record coming out. But did you know there are like 20 color variants? Here‘s where you can get all of them (the ones that haven’t already sold out, at least). Check out the lead single from Tomorrow Never Comes while you wait for your record to show up in the mail:

Japanese punk legends Hi-Standard recently surprised fans with a new single called “I’m A Rat”. This is the last song they recorded with drummer Akira Tsuneoka before his untimely passing earlier this year. Fat Wreck Chords is releasing the song as a 7″ picture disc.

Listen to the track below and pre-order the 7″ here. And here’s some more info on the release from the label:

“The physical release is a picture disc featuring the “I’m a Rat” cover art on side A, and a photograph of beloved founding member Akira Tsuneoka on side B. The picture disc is a small tribute to Tsune’s immortal spirit, and all profits will be donated to his family.”

Authority Zero‘s 2002 debut album A Passage In Time is getting its first-ever vinyl release, with Music On Vinyl pressing 1,000 copies on 180g silver colored wax. This is due out in June and only seems to be available from European retailers at the moment. If you want to import a copy to the US, JPC.de is probably your cheapest option.

The Offspring‘s Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace is back in print for the first time since 2008. This 15th Anniversary reissue comes with a bonus 7″ with live recordings from Hellfest 2022 and some other goodies. More importantly, you won’t have to fork over $200 for it like original pressings on Discogs. Get your copy here.

1-2-3-4 Go! Records latest exclusive pressing is this purdy variant of Tiger Army‘s 1999 self-titled debut, limited to 1,000 copies on orange and black “tiger stripe” colored vinyl. Available now on the Oakland record store’s webstore.

Highly regarded for their cassette releases, the friendly people at Memorable But Not Honorable have announced their first foray into the world of vinyl with Saturday Morning Lineup. The 19-song compilation features covers of Saturday Morning cartoon themes from awesome pop-punk bands like The Putz, Goin’ Places, Pinoles, Atomic Treehouse & more. Check out the teaser below and bookmark this product page; pre-orders go live Friday, May 26th. They pressed 250 copies on white colored vinyl.

Asbestos Records has opened enrollment for its 2023 Subscription Club. The label says they “have some insane releases coming out including a good mix of reissues from amazing ska/punk/hardcore bands, a couple reprints we’ve been working on for years, some new releases from great bands, and some completely off the wall surprises.” Sign up and fork over your cash here.

It wouldn’t be the Record Radar without even more Alkaline Trio represses from Newbury Comics, would it? Anyway, for $45.99(!) you can get this new 2×10″ pressing of Good Mourning on red and black marble colored vinyl. 1,000 copies, available here.

Newbury’s other Alkaline Trio reissue is Crimson, on the same color variant and, once again, spread across two 10″ discs. Buy it here. It’s also worth noting that Vagrant Records has their own webstore exclusive variant of this one, and surprise surprise, it’s somehow $10 less than Newbury’s. Both of these records go for over $100 on the resale market though, so I suppose I can’t complain too much.

SoCal melodic punks Strike Twelve have signed to Thousand Islands Records for the release of their new album Last Band Standing. Check out the music video for the awesome lead single “Smart Phones, Stupid People” below and pre-order the record here. Due out June 30th.

Well, that’s all, folks. Another Record Radar in the books. As always, thank you for tuning in. If there’s anything we missed (highly likely), or if you want to let everyone know about a new/upcoming vinyl release you’re excited about, leave us a comment below, or send us a message on Facebook or Instagram, and we’ll look into it. Enjoy your weekend, and don’t blow too much money on spinny discs (or do, I’m not your father). See ya next week!

Wanna catch up on all of our Record Radar posts? Click here and you’ll be taken to a page with all the past entries in the column. Magic!

by Staff Writer Screeching Bottlerocket
Tags: 
Alkaline Trio authority zero ds record radar hi-standard melodic punk

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DS Show Review & Gallery: Death and Memphis; The Linden Method; and Fire Cat! in Chicago (04.21.2023)

Death and Memphis, out of Joliet, IL, with support from The Linden Method, and Fire Cat! both of Chicago, headlined at Burlington Bar for a diverting night of music on April 21, 2023 on the Second City’s north side. Recently, I’ve documented several shows at Burlington Bar. It’s always a terrific experience. Burlington Bar is […]

Death and Memphis, out of Joliet, IL, with support from The Linden Method, and Fire Cat! both of Chicago, headlined at Burlington Bar for a diverting night of music on April 21, 2023 on the Second City’s north side.

Recently, I’ve documented several shows at Burlington Bar. It’s always a terrific experience. Burlington Bar is a cozy spot tucked along a well-known street on the north side of Chicago. With the actual bar up front and the music room in the back, separated by two doors, there is a warm and welcoming ambiance to the place. Whilst every show I have been to at the venue thus far has featured highly energetic bands, said shows have also been quite mellow. It may sound contrary but it’s not. Burlington Bar is a cool little joint working hard to provide its customers with good times. The Burlington’s vibe, set by the staff, and its physical appearance, is just relaxing and laidback sans pretension. We could use a few more of these types of places nearby.

Death and Memphis takes inspiration for its name from the song “Alex Chilton,” by the Replacements. Its music is a potent mix, frequently of sorrow and longing. Singer and guitar player Paul Garcia’s voice grittily conveys both sadness and hope. If the music was ever added to a soundtrack, surely the film would about a fighter (literal or metaphoric — either will work) who has been knocked down, but the full count has yet been given. In “Exhausted,” the title track from the band’s 2019 release is a prime example:

“So exhausted

I’m sick of feelin’

So exhausted

(My feet are broken

My knees are broken

My back is broken

But my spirit’s holdin’ fast)…”

Steev Custer, razor thin and leaning sharply forward, appears almost elastic while swinging his guitar loose and low. However, his tight shredding adds an integral jolt of intensity into the music.

The group is rounded out by the very strong backline of Devin Morris on bass (also on vocals), and newest member, Dave Spearman, on drums. Working in conjunction, Morris and Spearman, contribute a rhythmic gravitas and growl suited to the lyrical content and howling guitars. In addition to “Exhausted,” the band also tore through “Way Back Home,” “Maybe It’s The Way,” “Change,” and “Satisfied.” In the end the members may have been exhausted themselves, as they appear to put everything they had into the performance.

The twin heartbeats of Death and Memphis are Steev Custer and Paul Garcia. Friends since their teens the two have played together in numerous precursors to Death and Memphis. It’s the type of friendship and musical partnership in which they seem to share their own language. An often-mournful language with a slight inflection of twang. But rather than merely being two copies of one thing, Custer and Garcia, complement each other with their individual playing styles. Days after the show, I asked the two men about their relationship. Garcia responded,

“To answer your question, Steev and I are almost always on the same page. We can read each other. We’ve been doing this together for so long we developed a sense, similar to a married couple. We all as individuals as well as a whole have a passion for making music so we put in 100% right outta the gate. We are a family. Though we’ve been through other members Steev and I try to make everyone feel comfortable and an integral part of what is happening.”

Custer describes their relationship this way,

“Paul and I have been in bands together for 35 years now. He’s the only person I’ve ever met whose drive and passion for music is a match for mine. I’m certain there is no other way.“

But lest you think Death and Memphis is all melancholy, I assure you it is not. The band brings a rollicking good time as well. Garcia, Custer, Morris, and Spearman can be counted amongst some of the more positive people you’re bound to meet in the Chicago area punk scene.

Death and Memphis has a new EP coming out in the near future, to be released by Bypolar Records. Until then, members are keeping busy in various ways. For Steev Custer,

“Right now I’m focusing on the upcoming Death and Memphis release, playing in Space Age Zeros and teaching music which is a full-time job in itself.” Custer’s teaching takes place mostly at Fine Tunes Center For the Arts, a business he founded, owns and of which he is the director. He also added,

“The new EP should be out within the next couple of months. There’s a couple of other projects that go along with it, so there are several announcements coming.”

At the same time, Custer reflected on this evening,

“I thought the show was a blast. All the bands were awesome and it was  great to see everyone having a good time.“

Chicago skate punk crew, The Linden Method (TLM), used this night to showcase its latest album “Grief.” The band, comprised of singer/guitar player Alex Wight, Xack Brame on bass, and Jake Fritzler, drove through “November,” “Reverent,” “Original Sin,” and “Is This Thing Even On?”

TLM also performed “Monsters Inside,” a searing portrait of mistakes made and redemption being sought:

“It’s past the past-time

‘Cuz I’m trying to be better than the prick you knew from the suburbs

And I’m not running from memories

Not passive or patient

I’m trying and failing

And still not prevailing and clinically struggling.”

Robby Di Domenico, TLM bassist for several years, joined the band on secondary vocals for “Better Off Dead.” Di Domenico played on the recording of the tune from the group’s EP “Falling Short.”

Echoing the sentiments of Death and Memphis’ Steev Custer, Wight was ecstatic with how the evening went. A day or two later I touched base with him to get his feelings on it,

“I thought the show was a perfect intimate punk show at a great venue. We all had an absolute blast and are thankful that Death and Memphis and Fire Cat! had us out for the evening.“

The night’s bill also marked the first show of 2023 for Chicago’s Fire Cat! The band is in the planning stages for more events this year per singer/guitarist Tim Robaczewski. Fire Cat!, which also includes Lou Pontillo on bass, guitar player/backing vocalist Justin Saunders, and drummer/backing vocalist Liam O’Brien lit up its set with “Sleepless in Chicago,” “Big Business,” Wide Awake,” and “Eastland.” The band seems to address the idea of last stands in the face of futility in “Battlecry!,” the title track from its 2018 EP, which they played as well.

“All differences aside, this is goodbye, I try to accept

But I can’t help but sympathize

I see them all running like it’s the end

Like they have something to live for

Hum their battle cry: next time I’ll try.”

Fire Cat! may sing of trying “next time,” but this time it succeeded kicking off the show in a very lively way. Hoping the band finds itself quite busy during the remainder of the year.

Please see below for more images from the show!

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by Staff Writer MerGold
Tags: 
Burlington Bar bypolar records chicago Death and Memphis Fire Cat!

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DS News: Mad Caddies sign to SBÄM Records, releasing new album this summer

SoCal ska-punk veterans the Mad Caddies have signed to SBÄM Records, with plans to release a new full-length album this summer. This marks the end of the band’s 25+ year run with Fat Wreck Chords. All seven Mad Caddies LPs were released through the label, starting with 1997’s Quality Soft Core on the Honest Don’s […]

SoCal ska-punk veterans the Mad Caddies have signed to SBÄM Records, with plans to release a new full-length album this summer. This marks the end of the band’s 25+ year run with Fat Wreck Chords. All seven Mad Caddies LPs were released through the label, starting with 1997’s Quality Soft Core on the Honest Don’s imprint.

This will also be the band’s first album featuring a lineup that was completely overhauled in 2022. New additions include drummer Sean Sellers (Good Riddance, Pulley, etc.) and Authority Zero guitarist Brandon Landelius, among others. Frontman Chuck Robertson is the last man standing from the band’s original lineup.

Stay tuned for more details on the new Mad Caddies record, and keep an eye out for the lead single coming soon. The band will be touring extensively throughout 2023; dates can be found below.

Tour Dates:

May 5, 2023 Wakehouse – Fresno/Reedley, CA
May 6, 2023 Great Change Brewery – Bakersfield, CA
May 7, 2023 The Ritz – San Jose, CA
May 9, 2023 Cornerstone – Berkley, CA
May 10, 2023 Slo Brew – San Luis Obispo, CA
May 11, 2023 Ventura Music Hall – Ventura, CA
May 12, 2023 Lake Cachuma – Santa Barbara/Santa Ynez
May 13, 2023 Punk in Drublic Fest – San Diego, CA
May 14, 2023 Transplants Brewing – Palmdale, CA
June 6, 2023 Rumrunners – London, ON
June 7, 2023 Lee’s Place – Toronto, ON
June 8, 2023 Foufounes Electriques – Montreal, QC
June 9, 2023 Festival Au Lac – Granby, QC
June 10, 2023 Red Bridge Festival – Point Rouge, QC
June 11, 2023 L’Anti Bar & Spectacles – Quebec City, QC
June 12, 2023 Bronson Centre Theatre – Ottowa, ON
June 14, 2023 Mohawk Place – Buffalo, NY
June 15, 2023 Brighton Music Hall – Boston, MA
June 16, 2023 The Brooklyn Monarch – Brooklyn, NY
June 17, 2023 Spotlight at the Paramount – Huntington,NY
June 18, 2023 Soundstage – Baltimore, MD
June 20, 2023 The Bunker – Virginia Beach, VA
June 21, 2023 The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA
June 22, 2023 Cafe DaVinci , Deland, FL
June 23, 2023 Underbelly – Jacksonville, FL
June 24, 2023 Terra Fermata – Stuart, FL
June 25, 2023 Melbourne, FL – Debauchery w/Supervillians
June 27, 2023 The Cobra – Nashville, TN
June 28, 2023 Headliners – Louisville, KY

by Staff Writer Screeching Bottlerocket
Tags: 
Fat Wreck Chords Mad Caddies punk rock SBAM Records Ska

  1. Stoked

    Reply

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DS Slam Dunk Edition: Karina’s Must See

For years I’ve wanted to go to Slam Dunk because year after year, the festival has managed to get some of my favorite bands. Due to life sometimes happening, it wasn’t something on the cards for me in the past. But this year is the year; Hatfield May 27th. Even though, looking at Clashfinder, I […]

For years I’ve wanted to go to Slam Dunk because year after year, the festival has managed to get some of my favorite bands. Due to life sometimes happening, it wasn’t something on the cards for me in the past. But this year is the year; Hatfield May 27th. Even though, looking at Clashfinder, I might need to bring my running shoes.

So, what bands am I even looking forward to seeing? Well, read on and find out. And comment if you’re going and which bands you look forward to seeing.

The Offspring
There’s no denying that this band has had a wild period of bangers. Their last album might not have made my AOTY list when it came out, but I return to it. So I’m excited to hear them and the bangers, new and old (hopefully)

Bowling For Soup

Come on, a timeless band with a great list of bangers aged like fine wine. I can’t wait to scream 1985 from the top of my lungs and dance. Oh! And they released a new album with covers!

Less Than Jake
It’s been a few years since I saw them last in Copenhagen with Yellowcard. However, that concert was fun, and they still get me moving.

The Menzingers
Oh, come on, there’s no way in hell I’d miss this band. Because I always find out they are playing in Europe AFTER they’ve played in Europe. So, now it’s time.

Yellowcard
Again, been a minute since I saw them last. And that was an experience I still remember, even though my friends hated every minute I made them stay for their show. But this year, I get to see them with new friends that are as excited as I am.

The Academy Is…
Will I ever grow out of TAI? NO. I fondly remember visiting my ma and pa in Australia and my uncle taking me to a music store where I bought Almost Here. He made fun of me in our special way, so this one is for you, Bob. <3
There’s a 75 percent chance I’ll come home with a TAI tattoo.

Real Friends
Let’s forgive them for the previous two albums because their newest album is great, and I hope they play Strangers.

Boston Manor
So, a bit unusual. But their album Datura made its mark on me, and I hope to hear a few songs from the album and some of their previous albums.

Trophy Eyes
AUSTRALIAAAAAAA, nothing more to say. Stoked for this band tho’

Sincere Engineer
Music for some downtime between sets. No, I’m kidding. Sincere Engineer has made her way to my heart with Rhombithian.

Charlotte Sands
After discovering her when she released Every Guy Ever. I have been hooked on her, I find her talented and fresh.

Spanish Love Songs
I can’t get enough of this band. Even though they are performing at The Lexington on the 26th, I’ll still try to find my way to their stage.


Some of you might be scratching your heads and asking where a few bands on the lineup are on my list. It’s not that I’m not excited to see them. But the bands mentioned above, are definitely those I’m a bit more excited about. Nothing personal 🙂

by Staff Writer Karina Rae Selvig
Tags: 
emo england Punk slam dunk 2023

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From The Dying Scene Vault #4: (*both laugh*) Podcast Interview with Max Collins from Eve 6!

Thanks to everyone who has checked out all of the new content we’ve been cranking out since the relaunch of Dying Scene! We’re stoked to be back, and we’re even more stoked that you’ve been checking in! Because we have an awful lot of material from the old site in the Archive, we thought it […]

Thanks to everyone who has checked out all of the new content we’ve been cranking out since the relaunch of Dying Scene! We’re stoked to be back, and we’re even more stoked that you’ve been checking in! Because we have an awful lot of material from the old site in the Archive, we thought it would be cool to take a look back at some of the posts from our past.

The fourth installment of this little project is actually a bit of a hybrid post. As most of you know, the original Dying Scene crapped out somewhere around November 2019. Covid obviously happened a couple of months later, so not only was the site dead, but the whole scene itself was for a while. As a way to stay connected and to highlight the things people were doing during the shutdown, we started a video chat series that I called (*both laugh*). If you’ve read any of my long-form interviews over the years, you know from whence the show gets its name. Anyway, the show started as an Instagram Live chat series but, for a variety of reasons including but not limited to the fact that I’m a bearded suburban white guy, it turned into a podcast! Because why not?!

I think we did about 50-ish episodes of the (*both laugh*) show before the site relaunched and took all of my available free time last year. Episode 39 of said show featured Max Collins, the inimitable frontman from famed 90s alternative (?) band Eve 6. I always thought Eve 6 got sort of unfairly lumped in with the more mainstream bands of the time, probably due to MTV and alt-rock radio, but they struck me as more of a punk band. Anyway, Max became a bit of a Twitter-famous celebrity a couple years back. He’s incredibly funny and insightful and whip-smart, and for some reason he said “Sure” when I asked if he wanted to be on the show. This was a super fun one for me. Anyway, since today marks the 25th anniversary (holy crap!?!) of Eve 6’s self-titled record, I figured it would be a fun time to revisit our chat now that we have a real website again. Watch the video below or stream it wherever you get your podcasts – like here on Spotify!

by Staff Writer jaystone
Tags: 
both laugh eve 6 i would swallow my pride Interview max collins

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DS Photo Gallery & Show Review: Djunah / Huntsmen (Empty Bottle – Chicago, IL 3/24/2023)

Djunah’s record release show for Femina Furens happened on March 23rd at the Empty Bottle, in Chicago IL. I wasn’t at the release for their previous album, but I’ve seen videos of it on YouTube so I knew this release was going to be a special show. I expected good things from Huntsmen since Djunah […]

Djunah’s record release show for Femina Furens happened on March 23rd at the Empty Bottle, in Chicago IL. I wasn’t at the release for their previous album, but I’ve seen videos of it on YouTube so I knew this release was going to be a special show. I expected good things from Huntsmen since Djunah hand picked them to open. I was pumped for this show and my enthusiasm was not misplaced.

I had zero familiarity with Huntsmen prior to this show, other than hearing they were a doom band. When I think of Chicago doom, my mind immediately goes to slow sludgy metal with low guttural screaming. As such, I was expecting something in that vein, but I was pleasantly surprised by how wrong I was. As they prepared to start their set, the band positioned their own lights around the stage, all projecting a warm orange glow. The fog machine saturated the stage, setting somewhat of a somber mood. The start of their music further added to the atmosphere. The beginning of the set, as well as many other songs started clean and melodic. I was taken aback when they busted out three-part vocal harmonies. They were often led by Aimee’s angelic voice, supported by Marc on bass and Chris on guitar, who took the lead for other songs. The music didn’t stay this soft and gentle however; it wasn’t long before the guitars became aggressive and distorted, the bass gritty and driving, with drums heavy and pounding. These parts of the songs still weren’t slow and sludgy like I expected. They weren’t punk rock fast, but held a solid driving mid-tempo, a good speed to keep you paying attention. It felt to me like a modern take on the pioneering metal bands of the 70s that doom couldn’t exist without. The melodic, harmonic vocals continued on top of these parts creating wonderful contrast. At strategic points in the songs, much to my enjoyment, Ray on drums adds some well-fitting screaming vocals underneath the tapestry of vocal harmonies. Turns out Kirill on guitar was the only member to not contribute on vocals, but his energy on guitar more than made up for it. Huntsmen really surprised and delighted me with their unique and creative style of doom rock. I thoroughly enjoyed their performance and am already digging into their recording catalog. Even if you don’t think doom is your thing, you owe it to yourself to give them a listen.

I make it no secret that Djunah is one of my absolute favorite bands from Chicago. If you haven’t seen them before they’re a two-piece band with an amazingly full sound. Donna Diane plays guitar and sings, while also playing bass lines on synth with her foot. Jared Hemming’s drum work is original and interesting, it complements Donna’s playing perfectly without overshadowing it. This was the record release show for their new album, Femina Furens. The new songs have a more complex flavor compared to their previous album. Where the songs on Ex Voto drew me in instantly, Femina Furens needs to be heard a few times to fully digest and appreciate the songs. It’s an incredible album and well worth the time investment. The show started off with an excellent foreboding tone. Donna came on stage wearing a hooded gown, holding a sword. Yes, a real goddamn sword. She looked like a warrior ready for battle. After brandishing the sword above her shoulders, she rested it with an Epiphone Les Paul on a guitar stand. That’ll come back into play later. The last few times I’ve seen Djunah they mostly played the new songs. This show they played a balanced mix of new and old, hearing the old songs live again was like running into an old friend. Throughout the set Donna’s guitar was loud and raw, with excellent use of multiple distortions to craft fantastic tones and textures. I am in love with the sound of her deep, thick, distorted synth bass. It’s something you have to experience live, you will feel the sound pressure vibrate your insides in the most pleasing way. Jared’s drumming was on point as always, technical and complex, matching Donna’s riffs and rhythms perfectly. Donna’s powerful singing was passionate and expressive, and the screaming. Her screaming is just pure concentrated catharsis. For the most part, Donna uses her Gibson SG for the Ex Voto songs, and her Kurt Ballou guitar for the Femina Furens songs. But for the last song of the night, she picked up the aforementioned Epiphone. At the end of the song, while the synth bass rang out indefinitely, Donna scraped and slashed the strings creating a cacophony of noise and feedback. The guitar screamed out as it was punished for its sins, strings were sacrificed then Donna kneeled over it and stabbed from above. She left the guitar there, feeding back like a death rattle, as she walked off stage, sword above her shoulders just as she came out. Djunah record release shows are truly something to behold. As of this writing, you can still catch the second leg of their 2023 North America tour.

This show was freaking fantastic. Huntsmen converted me into a fan and Djunah had already hooked me. Catch them live any opportunity you get. More photos below:

by Staff Writer manvsfriction
Tags: 
chicago Chicago Rock Djunah djunah band Doom

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In Case You Missed It! – Dying Scene Review: Last One Down – “Failing Dreams”

I’ve been taking trips through this record on and off since its release in September 2022, letting the tracks catch me in their own time as I’d clean or do some work. I’m not the best at giving things my full attention, but one thing I can say about Last One Down‘s debut album Failing […]

I’ve been taking trips through this record on and off since its release in September 2022, letting the tracks catch me in their own time as I’d clean or do some work. I’m not the best at giving things my full attention, but one thing I can say about Last One Down‘s debut album Failing Dreams is that it will find a way to grab you, sit you down, and say what it came to say.

The titular opening track lays the mood down immediately, the guitar feedback howls over the sputtering drums into a familiar melodic punk style that lays out the premise, “These are the failing dreams of humanity, the failing dreams of you and me.” A proper thematic introduction to an album about the often inescapable feeling that things are bleak and not necessarily going to just magically get better.

The disillusionment is palpable as we move through the album, “50” and “In Circles” echo the same feelings of a loss of control, lamenting the beaten paths that we are expected to walk. The outro of the latter track is just the singer pleading to the narrative powers at be to just stop as the song fades.

There are spots of optimism in this album, maybe not for society, but “Stand Up” offers the option of trying to claw something good out of hands of the dark powers at be. The catchy “Coming Home” is still a regular track in my playlists, a classic anthemic punk song that would be at-home in the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater soundtrack of your mind.

That’s what resonates with me about this album, it’s familiar, I could hear these songs among Millencolin or Lagwagon easily. The album feels cohesive musically and emotionally, it wants to remind you that the problems in our society have gone unsolved for decades now and the only way through is together. “Your enemies will never fade, they’ll never fade away.”

It can be hard to emotionally resonate with bleak songs about lies and deceit when you just want to feel happiness. Behind the anger of this album, songs like “Eye” and “Lies & Promises” show a balance of optimism with the austere. The closing track “We Make Us” is maybe the happiest song on the entire record. “When I’m with you I can do anything”, the anthemic chorus rises with harmonies like a flower creeping through a crack in the sidewalk.

Failing Dreams feels like your most comfortable flannel in the closet. It makes sense when you find out it was produced/mixed/mastered by Paul Miner of BuzzBomb whose put out gems from Atreyu, New Found Glory, and Thrice. Go grab the record, or in the very least hit Last One Down up on Bandcamp, and start up a circle pit in your living room with your sturdiest pets.

by Staff Writer Bobby Benedict
Tags: 
bypolar records failing dreams last one down melodic punk reno

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DS Exclusive: Danvers – “MoshPolice”

We know that the beginning of the work week can be a drag, so we’re here to bring a little sunshine to your otherwise, dreary Monday with a DS Exclusive! Our Pittsburgh based pals, Danvers have a new album called Like We Knew What It Meant set to release on 5/1 but we got our […]

We know that the beginning of the work week can be a drag, so we’re here to bring a little sunshine to your otherwise, dreary Monday with a DS Exclusive! Our Pittsburgh based pals, Danvers have a new album called Like We Knew What It Meant set to release on 5/1 but we got our paws on the final single “MoshPolice” before the LP hits the streets and boy, is it a banger! So, give the track a listen and then presave the album so you can jam out to the rest of it with us next week!

by Staff Writer AnarchoPunk.LA
Tags: 
ds exclusive emo melodic punk pittsburgh pop punk

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DS Interview: Caitlin Edwards on Punk The Burbs, Bumsy & The Moochers, and her debut solo record

Caitlin Edwards, the singer of suburban punk ska band, Bumsy & The Moochers, and founder of local music fest, Punk The Burbs, just released her debut solo record. We caught up with her to discuss how her new project and to reflect on past milestones, her creative process, and what’s coming up next. Caitlin Edwards […]

Caitlin Edwards, the singer of suburban punk ska band, Bumsy & The Moochers, and founder of local music fest, Punk The Burbs, just released her debut solo record. We caught up with her to discuss how her new project and to reflect on past milestones, her creative process, and what’s coming up next.

Caitlin Edwards is having a moment. Actually, it is just the latest moment she is having. As lead singer for the popular suburban Chicago ska band Bumsy & The Moochers (BATM), Edwards founded the area punk fest, Punk the Burbs, almost a decade ago. On February 25, 2023, Edwards introduced her tunes from debut solo record Pluto Party during her release show at Cobra Lounge in Chicago, IL. The first single off the independently released album is the infectiously fun “Unlucky Charm.” In addition to her vocals, Edwards played the guitar, bass, and violin. John Perrin, noted below as well, played the drums. For her live band, pictured below in this piece, it’s Tim Flynn (L) on bass, and drummer Andrew Cielo (R). Oh, and Bruce, her friend’s pup and also pictured below, is the musical mascot to them all.

MG: How did you get your start in music?

CE: “I started playing violin when I was ten. My dad always played guitar and of course I listened to a lot of rock bands then so I picked up the guitar at thirteen. I taught myself how to play guitar, but having that experience playing on the violin helped. Callous already on the fingers and all that.“

MG: Who are some of your musical influences?

CE: “Most recently The Muffs, Beabadoobee, The Beths, Best Coast. Of course Green Day, Weezer, Oasis, and The Copyrights will always be bands that influence me throughout my life.”

MG: Did you have a writing partner for your solo work and is the songwriting with BATM collaborative?

CE:“Typically songs just come to me at random or just waking up from a dream. Sometimes when I’m walking around or in the shower. This goes for both projects. I could never just sit down and be like ok, gonna write a song. It just doesn’t work that way for me. Sometimes in BATM, other members will bring song ideas, chords, lyrics to the table and we’ll collaboratively write.”

MG: What’s the best show or tour you’ve ever played and why was it so special to you?

CE: “Probably Bumsy and the Moochers playing at FEST 20 last year. I’ve always wanted to play FEST. We put on our best set and the crowd was wild. So much love. For my solo project I had a ton of fun playing this recent album release show at Cobra Lounge. Once again, so much love and just having people come up to me saying they loved the album. Such an amazing feeling.”

MG: Do you have any funny or interesting stories from being on the road that you can share with us?

CE: “One time Bumsy and the Moochers played in St. Louis. We stayed at the coolest Airbnb that was a loft. Had a ping-pong table, fancy showers and beds. Then we played at this tiny hole-in-the-wall bar where there was Street Fighter 2 that people could play. I must’ve played everyone in that bar and kicked their ass. Of course I was Blanka, that’s my guy. Lol. Then we played this show with mostly pop punk bands, but everyone dug us. Even one dude said, I hate ska, but I love you guys. Not really an interesting story, just a fun time on tour.”

MG: What are some of your favorite songs to play live?

CE: “In my solo project I love playing “No Kids” and “All That Fun.” They’re songs that aren’t the typical pop punk songs that I’m used to playing so I enjoy doing something different. But I also love playing “Guess Again.” Just love the energy that song brings.”

MG: How does your creative process differ from album to album?

CE: “For my solo band, I take a lot of time writing songs, adding new parts or lyrics, seeing which songs would fit in an album because it’s just me. No input from others encourages me to make sure I’m doing everything I can to make sure my songs sound good. With Bumsy and the Moochers, even when I just write a song, I’m still getting input from everyone else. At times it’s easier because you’re getting so many ideas, but at times it’s harder. Sometimes it’s hard for us to agree on something, too many cooks in the kitchen so to speak.”

MG: How did you found Punk the Burbs and how has it been?

CE: “I created the Punk The Burbs Facebook group in 2014. Just wanted a Facebook for people to post shows, ads, events in the burbs since there was mostly groups for shows happening in the city. Doing Punk The Burbs every year is a lot of hard work, but I’m glad I’ve helped create more of a music community in the burbs. I’m also glad that we’ve introduced a lot of people to new bands they may have never heard before.”

MG: How much of the year is occupied organizing the fest each year? Do you have a team to help?

CE: “It really takes up most of the year to organize the fest. So much goes into it, even more when it’s Jason [Fein of The Run Around] and myself doing most of the work. We’ve had volunteers help at the fest before in the past, but that’s it. We’d love to have more help and actual employees next time around.“

MG: How did you decide to do a solo record at this point?

CE: “I’ve actually been wanting to do a solo record since I was a teenager. Just never got around to it because other things were happening in life, school, other bands, you know how it goes. I finally started to get serious about a solo project in 2017. Up until 2019, I never had enough songs to do an album. With everything that happened to me from 2019-2022, I suddenly had a ton of material that would be perfect for an album.“

MG: Tell us about the musicians who backed you on the record? Who produced it?

CE: “I played the guitar, violin, bass, and vocals on this record. My friend John Perrin did the drums. I knew he could do the drums exactly how I imagined them and he did! I did the production work as well. Dan Precision [Dan Wleklinski of 88 Fingers Louie and formerly of Rise Against] mixed and mastered the album. There was a few things he put in that weren’t there before. For example, the orchestral part in “Lip”, Dan came up with that. Definitely gave that song more emotion.“

MG: How do you balance Bumsy, PTB and new solo work, along with your day job/life?

CE: “I actually balance it all pretty easy these days. I’ve been doing it for such a long time, it just comes naturally. If I wasn’t doing all that stuff, I’d probably get bored. Though a nice break from Punk The Burbs Fest I wouldn’t mind. I’d much rather be creating music than being on the business side of it.“

MG: Along with that band release, do you have plans to our solo or will you play solo work on the same bill as BATM?

CE: ”I like to keep Bumsy and my solo project pretty separate. I’d get exhausted playing the same show together or doing a tour back-to-back. I am trying to piece together a solo weekender tour at the moment for 2023.”

MG: How did the song “Unlucky Charm” come about and was it about anything personally?

CE:  “Like most people, I experience anxiety from time to time. When I was younger, it was a lot worse. I used to get panic attacks. Nowadays, I have my anxiety way more under control. Music, therapy, and loved ones helped me no doubt. That’s what “Unlucky Charm” is about. Having anxiety around you for a long time and finally not letting it hang around in your life anymore.“

MG: Who directed the video for it and what was the inspiration for the video?

CE: “Justin Sostre directed the video. He’s also Bumsy and the Moochers trumpet player. Amazing musician and super cool dude. I came up with the idea. Anxiety is something that can feel like it’s always lurking, or sometimes sneaks up on you. I figured why don’t we have anxiety literally doing that, but as a creepy masked person? I always loved music videos with humor and a message. So that’s why if anything it’s meant to be a really funny video on something serious.“

MG: What do you have upcoming, both as a solo artist, with the band and with Punk the Burbs?

CE: ”My solo project has two shows coming up. We’re playing at Programme Skate and sound in Fullerton, CA April 15th. [Spoke with Edwards prior to the Fullerton, CA date]. We’re also playing at the Village Theater in Davenport, IA April 28th.”  

It’s a good time for Caitlin Edwards and she’s grabbing hold of the momentum via her talent, her work, and ability to have fun as well. Check out Pluto Party, as soon as you can and get yourself to a show when she hits your town, solo or leading Bumsy and the Moochers!

by Staff Writer MerGold
Tags: 
Bumsy and the Moochers caitlin edwards chicago Illinois pop punk

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