Archives:
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- Against Me! at Riot Fest by Katie Hovland
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- Against Me! at Riot Fest by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Gwar by Katie Hovland
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- Jesse Hughes of Eagles of Death Metal
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- Psalm One by Katie Hovland
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- White Mystery by Katie Hovland
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- Pears by Katie Hovland
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- Skinny Lister by Katie Hovland
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- Eagles Of Death Metal by Katie Hovland
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- Elway by Katie Hovland
The Suicide Machines – Revolution Spring
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 3/27/20
Last Friday, The Suicide Machines released their first album in 15 years and first for Fat Wreck Chords, called Revolution Spring. The band originally disbanded in 2006, but got back together in 2009 and have been playing shows sporadically ever since. They waited until they found the right inspiration to start writing songs and their patience more than paid off, as this record is easily among the best in their entire catalog. The first track, “Bully in Blue,” is an ideal album opener in that it’s highly energetic and contains thought-provoking lyrics. It spotlights the hyper-speed bass skills of Rich Tschirhart, while addressing white privilege and police brutality. It also challenges the listener to possibly think about this topic from a different perspective. The second entry, “Awkward Always,” changes gears and features a strong ska influence. It includes clean guitar upstrokes and an off beat rhythm, and highlights the creative subtleties of drummer Ryan Vandeberghe. The song looks back on the past and recognizes that some feelings still hold true after many years.
Another definite highpoint is “Trapped in a Bomb,” which talks about a dear friend who passed away unexpectedly. The bass takes the lead during the verse and paves the way to an urgent chorus, (“I will bring you whiskey in the winter and flowers in the spring”). The song represents arguably the best vocal performance from singer Jason Navarro, with the raw emotion clearly evident in his voice. “Simple” is an uplifting sing-a-long that sounds especially relevant in times like these. It also witnesses guitarist Justin Malek put on a clinic and deliver loads of impressive guitar leads. The album concludes with “Cheers to Ya,” a classic blast of ska-punk that incorporates a horn section to provide melody over distorted power chords. The song has a pogo-inducing chorus and an overall reflective tone, which is a fitting way to end the record.
Revolution Spring takes elements from all of The Suicide Machines’ previous albums and adds contemporary touches. Its lyrics are very much in the moment and tackle some dark topics, but there’s a distinct sense of optimism that shines through. Additionally, producer Roger Lima, (singer/bassist from Less Than Jake) did an outstanding job of bringing these songs to life and really capturing the energy of their live shows. In short, this is one hell of a comeback album that finds the band sounding as though they never missed a beat.
Mean Jeans
Several months ago, Mean Jeans released their latest full-length on Fat Wreck Chords, entitled Gigantic Sike. We recently caught up with singer/guitarist Billy Jeans and talked about the inspiration behind the album’s name, the quick manner in which the record was made and what some of its songs are about. Gigantic Sike features a stripped-down approach to the Ramones-influenced punk that fans have come to know, but there’s now a greater sense of honesty found in the lyrics. To be fair, there’s still plenty of songs about partying, but it also addresses the notion of what to do when the partying days are over. Additionally, we discussed how all three band members currently live in different states, their show this fall at Cobra Lounge, future plans and more.
Continue Reading…CJ Ramone
Earlier this year, CJ Ramone released his latest solo full-length via Fat Wreck Chords, called The Holy Spell. He recently played Chop Shop in support of the record and we met up with him before the show. We talked about the album’s writing and recording process, including how several of its songs were written in the studio. We also discussed the passing of his close friend Steve Soto, (Adolescents, Agent Orange) and CJ’s decision to write a song that celebrates Steve’s life. Additionally, he recalled his time in the Ramones and talked about his most memorable show as a member of the legendary band. We also conversed about CJ’s Australian tour that just got underway, his plans for the future and more.
Continue Reading…Teenage Bottlerocket
Last month, Teenage Bottlerocket released their latest full-length, Stay Rad! It marks the band’s first album of new material since the unexpected passing of founding drummer Brandon Carlisle in 2015. We spoke with Brandon’s brother, singer/guitarist Ray Carlisle, and discussed the circumstances surrounding the creation of this record. We talked about when the band felt that it was an appropriate time to start writing again, how they found new drummer Darren Chewka and what it was like recording without Brandon. We also covered their extensive touring schedule this year, what they’ve got planned for the future and more. Stay Rad! contains the youthful energy and humor that Teenage Bottlerocket is known for, but also adds layered songwriting and the inclusion of new influences. The resulting album is one that finds the band sounding assured and ready to move forward with the next chapter in their career.
Swingin’ Utters – Peace and Love
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 8/31/18
With Peace and Love, Swingin’ Utters continue to defy the notion that long-running bands can’t compose songs that are on par or better than their early material. Since returning from a seven-year hiatus in 2010, Swingin’ Utters have repeatedly challenged that perception, with Peace and Love likely being the strongest of their recent output. One reason for this is the latest additions to their lineup. Bassist Tony Teixeira and drummer Luke Ray represent the new rhythm section, and some will no doubt recognize them as members of Cobra Skulls. Their involvement adds layers of new influences and an energetic spirit that can’t be overlooked. Guitarist/singer Jack Dalrymple, (Dead To Me, One Many Army, toyGuitar) has been part of the group since 2006 and continues to lend his talents in a variety of areas, while singer Johnny “Peebucks” Bonnel and guitarist/singer Darius Koski represent the unwavering founding members.
Despite its title of Peace and Love, this is perhaps Swingin’ Utters’ most political record to date. According to Koski, “We don’t generally write very pointedly political songs. We tend to be a little more vague and abstract. But this one is pretty pointedly disgusted and pissed off and really directly attacking these fuckin’ people in office.” For further evidence, reference the song “Yes I Hope He Dies.” Another interesting aspect of this album is the fact that many of its best songs are found on the second half, including “Demons of Springtime,” “Human Potential” and “Drinkist.” The record concludes with “H.L.S.,” a touching tribute penned by Dalrymple for his One Many Army bandmate Heiko Schrepel, who passed away in 2015. It begins with only acoustic guitar and Dalrymple’s vocals, which are equally chilling and beautiful, before the rest of the band kicks in, providing both a fitting end to the song and the album.
Peace and Love straddles the line between old school punk and contemporary inspirations. It’s filled with vigor, angst and a notable level of musicianship. It also benefits from the production of Grammy-winning engineer Chris Dugan, (Green Day, Iggy Pop). Whether you’re a longtime fan or relatively unfamiliar with the band, you owe it to yourself to check this out now.
The Mad Caddies – Punk Rocksteady
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 6/15/18
This Friday, The Mad Caddies are set to release an album consisting of their own unique interpretations of punk songs, aptly titled Punk Rocksteady. Selections from some of the biggest names in punk are included, but they’re completely reimagined with prominent influences of ska, reggae, two-tone and more. Kicking off the record is the Bad Religion hit “Sorrow,” and this version features a piano intro, echoed vocals that highlight the story of a father-son relationship, and numerous organ melodies. It’s hard to imagine a ska-heavy rendition of this song being able to retain the somber mood of the original, but this one does just that and in a manner that’s completely distinctive. Green Day’s “She” is another notable entry and this adaption has a breezy, laidback vibe and a skillfully-crafted guitar solo. Propagandhi’s “…And We Thought Nation States Were a Bad Idea” is up next and its offbeat rhythm helps to emphasize the overtly political lyrics, while an abundance of backing vocals in the chorus serves to further reinforce the main theme. Lagwagon’s “Alien 8” is perhaps the most horn-driven track on the album, and Bracket’s “2RAK005” just might be the record’s catchiest song, showcasing the vocal talents of singer Chuck Robertson. Also included are covers of Operation Ivy, The Misfits, Against Me!, Descendents and more. Simply put, Punk Rocksteady has arrived just in time for summer. It makes for great driving music and would appeal equally to longtime fans of The Mad Caddies or punk aficionados looking for new renderings of their favorite jams.
The Lillingtons
Earlier this month, The Lillingtons played Beat Kitchen and we met up with singer/guitarist Kody Templeman to talk about the band’s latest album, Stella Sapiente. The record, (their first in 11 years) features a host of new influences, ranging from ‘80s post-punk to vintage speed metal. The new sounds mesh with lyrics centered on the occult to create a distinctive style that somewhat reintroduces the band after a lengthy hiatus. We spoke with Templeman about how the album was written, its various themes and what the recording process was like. We also discussed the band’s upcoming European tour, Templeman’s disdain for insects and more. Continue Reading…
The Lawrence Arms – We Are the Champions of the World
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 3/30/18
The Lawrence Arms (TLA) need no introduction. Rather, I’d like to emphasize that the band has evolved with an impressive consistency since 1999; including writing and musicianship, down to its primary engineer through the years: Matt Allison of Atlas Studios. A steady captain behind the scenes gives the recording quality and process a consistency of its own. The trio comprised of bassist/vocalist Brendan Kelly, guitarist/vocalist Chris McCaughan and drummer Neil Hennessy hand-picked 29 songs to showcase on its new best-of collection titled, We Are the Champions of the World.
Of the 29 tracks, 24 were culled from the band’s prolific discography – an evenly distributed retrospective spread, providing existing fans with the ultimate TLA mixtape, while simultaneously creating a perfect pool of songs for those just jumping in. The biggest perk of this release are the five previously unreleased tracks featured on this collection, all taken from the 2006 Oh! Calcutta! sessions, recorded at Atlas Studios in Chicago.
The tracks were scrapped because they “just didn’t fit in the structure of that album, which ended up being very focused and thematic,” Kelly said. “I hadn’t heard these songs in over 10 years,” McCaughan said. “I’d basically forgotten they existed at all, so listening back to a few of them was initially like stepping into some strange portal.”
“The Rabbit and the Rooster” was featured as an iTunes bonus track to O!C! It’s an anthemic, triumphant song that almost-comically borrows its bridge from Cher’s “If I Could Turn Back Time.” It’s an unapologetically upbeat tune about living for today, with plenty of nods to drinking and paying no mind to regret.
“Catalog” is short and fast, over before the 1:30 mark. Kelly and McCaughan trade vocal duties on this one. Interestingly, this was the first song Kelly wrote for the O!C! sessions. For a demo, the quality is superb.
McCaughan’s “Black Snow” is perhaps the most dynamic of the unreleased tracks. Backing vocals were never added, and it was abandoned about halfway through its completion. It captures much of what McCaughan felt in 2005 in Chicago. Thematically and sonically, it’s restless and echoes a Holden Caulfield-esque perspective. “I need a better way, another day, a different time/This liquor sheen smiles in my eyes/I’m searching for an anchor in this empty night/Walking home on the same street/it never used to look like this/the skeletons are secretly living in all these condominiums.”
“Laugh Out Loud” was another one of the earlier songs written for the O!C! sessions by McCaughan and exists now only as a demo. “It’s so easy to be jaded,” he sings. “Warped Summer Extravaganza (Turbo Excellent)” is a much faster take of the song that made the cut on O!C! This perhaps is the fastest song TLA has in its catalog, and it’s a perfectly succinct track to end the retrospective on, bringing it full circle in a way.
– Jason Duarte
The Lillingtons – Stella Sapiente
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 10/13/1
Earlier this month, The Lillingtons made their Fat Wreck Chords debut by releasing their first full-length in over a decade, Stella Sapiente. Given the amount of time between albums, it’s understandable that this release incorporates new influences, and thankfully the band’s use of heavy and dark styles is a welcomed change. Their traditional pop punk tendencies have taken a backseat to metallic riffs and songs about paranormal knowledge and covert agencies. In some ways Stella Sapiente is a natural progression for The Lillingtons, but in others it’s a sizeable shift that finds the band experimenting with a new sound and ascending to previously unachieved heights.
The record opens with “Golden Dawn/Knights Templar,” an ominous song the references secret societies and employs undistorted guitar leads, really setting the mood for the rest of album. “Insect Nightmares” is one of the record’s catchiest tracks, complete with dueling guitars and a relentless pace that spotlights the rhythm section’s skills. “K6” and “Zodiac” both evoke memories of the band’s third full-length, Backchannel Broadcast, while “London Fog” features a serious guitar solo near its end that’s sure to please any fan of Iron Maiden. As the album draws to a close three of its strongest entries can be found, beginning with “The Walker.” The song starts with a pensive rhythm and haunting vocal melodies before the rest of the band comes in with blistering energy. “They Live” is the record’s fastest track and also boasts its most impressive guitar solos, (and that’s saying something). “Drawing Down the Stars” wraps up the album, bringing to mind hints of Judas Priest and effectively paying homage to thrash metal.
With Stella Sapiente, The Lillingtons have not only written the next successful chapter in their history, but more importantly laid the framework for what appears to be an exciting future. After an extended break they’ve returned and managed to reinvent themselves by creating a record that would appeal equally to fans of old school pop punk, metal or horror. Whether you haven’t listened in years or you’re completely new to the band, don’t delay in checking out this album.
Dead To Me
Photo by Katie Hovland
Last month, Dead To Me played Double Door and we caught up with the band at a nearby coffee shop before the show. We spoke with singer/bassist Tyson “Chicken” Annicharico, guitarist/singer Jack Dalyrmple and drummer Ian Anderson. Guitarist Ken Yamazaki was also present, but did not take part in the interview. We talked about the band’s latest 7” for Fat Wreck Chords, I Wanna Die in Los Angeles, including how it was written and the motivation behind its title. We also discussed Annicharico’s newfound sobriety, Dalyrmple’s return to the band, where they’re at with recording their next full-length and more. Continue Reading…
Swingin’ Utters
Photo by Katie Hovland
We caught up with Swingin’ Utters earlier this year when they played Riot Fest and spoke with singer Johnny “Peebucks” Bonnel and guitarist/singer Darius Koski. We talked about their latest album, Fistful of Hollow, including its style and how it was recorded. We also discussed the reasons for the band being so productive as of late, having released three full-lengths in the last six years. Additionally, we conversed about their upcoming new album, which they’ve already begun writing and hope to release next year. Continue Reading…
PEARS – Green Star
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 4/01/16
In July of last year, PEARS re-released their debut LP via Fat Wreck Chords and quite honestly took the punk and hardcore communities by storm. Admittedly, the album was recorded in a hurried manner, but still conveyed the band’s unrelenting energy and unique approach to songwriting. In contrast, Green Star was meticulously written and recorded, and the added effort clearly shows. The record certainly spotlights PEARS’ evolution, but that’s not to imply they’ve abandon their signature style of frantic hardcore punk that’s both old school and progressive. Green Star charges out of the gates with “Hinged by Spine,” which channels Today’s Empires… era Propagandhi and highlights the impressive vocal range of singer Zach Quinn. “The Flu” evokes the spirit of punk pioneers Circle Jerks and Black Flag, and seems like it would be a definite crowd favorite in a live setting. The title track changes tempos on a dime, yet transitions fluidly between the varying rhythms. It also features a hyper-melodic chorus that’s supported by a horde of harmonious backing vocals. There’s even a re-recorded version of “Snowflake” from their Letters to Memaw seven-inch and it sounds more concise and confident than the original. Containing 16 tracks in all, including two piano interludes, this album is by all accounts a complete work that observes PEARS really elevating their game. Take a listen to the song “Green Star” below and for those who say there aren’t any new bands out there that are innovative or worthwhile, tell them to check out this record.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/07-Green-Star.mp3|titles= “Green Star”]
Mean Jeans – Nite Vision
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 3/18/16
Last week, Mean Jeans marked their Fat Wreck Chords debut with the release of the Nite Vision seven-inch. The record serves as a preview for their upcoming album Tight New Dimension, which the label will put out in April. Containing three songs in total, (one that appears on the full-length and two that are exclusive) Nite Vision finds the Portland trio sharpening their patented take on Ramones-inspired garage rock. Things get underway with the title track, an ominous entry that features surf rock undertones and a chorus that stomps along with authority. It also contains a gloomy yet melodic guitar lead that helps to solidify the mood of this confident anthem. Up next is “Now I Wanna Be Yr Dogg,” which channels Teenage Bottlerocket but adds extra humor and a noticeably faster tempo. It’s infectiously catchy and does a nice job of showcasing the vocal abilities of singer/guitarist Billy Jeans. The record concludes with “69 Tears,” clocking-in at less than a minute and a half, though still managing to include buzzsaw guitars, skillful drumming and distinctive call and response backing vocals. If these songs are any indication of what’s to come on Mean Jeans’ forthcoming album, then it sounds as though the band has taken their craft to that next level. Check out the song “Nite Vision” below for a sample of what’s in store.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Night_Vision.mp3|titles= “Nite Vision”]
Face to Face
This Friday, Face to Face will release their ninth full-length, Protection. It marks the band’s return to Fat Wreck Chords, a label they last worked with for the release of their debut album in 1993. We spoke with singer/guitarist Trever Keith and talked about the homecoming, as well as what it was like recording Protection with producer Bill Stevenson. We also discussed what some of the record’s songs are about, how the band plans to celebrate their 25th anniversary this year, upcoming tours and more. While the essence of Face to Face’s early material shines through on this album, so too do plenty of modern styles. The end result finds the band recalling past work to help further their current songwriting, and sounding especially invigorated while doing so. Continue Reading…
Riot Fest, 2015
For its inaugural year in Douglas Park, Riot Fest continued to grow and expand, while still retaining its formula of legacy acts mixed with eclectic and emerging artists. Despite the change of location, Riot Fest felt right at home in its new digs, taking advantage of an open layout that made for easy navigation from one stage to another. There was a little rain and a fair amount of mud, but those that weren’t deterred by the elements were treated to a surplus of memorable sets from a genuinely diverse collection of bands. We recapped some of our favorite moments and observations from what was an eventful, action-packed weekend. Written by Jamie Ludwig, (JL) and Bill Denker, (BD). Photos by Katie Hovland.
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