Archives:
Twenty Years of Red Scare
Last Friday, Red Scare released a 17-song compilation titled 20 Years of Dreaming and Scheming, which of course commemorates the record label’s 20th anniversary. In addition to the compilation, they’re also marking the event with release shows this month in Chicago, Wisconsin, Portland, Seattle and Las Vegas. We recently spoke with label cofounder Toby Jeg about reaching this impressive milestone. We discussed how he went about putting this compilation together, what he’s looking forward to about the upcoming release parties, the future of Red Scare and more.
Continue Reading…
Sludgeworth Plans More New Music After EP Release Show This Saturday
Last month, Sludgeworth released their first new music in over 30 years, a two-song EP titled Together Not Together. In 2022, the band reunited after a decades-long hiatus, when Red Scare Industries reissued their classic album, Losers of the Year. To help commemorate the long out-of-print record being available once again, they played a show at Cobra Lounge in April of 2023. It was during rehearsals for this show that new music began to surface.
When detailing how the new songs came about, drummer Brian McQuaid explained “It was really just kind of reconnecting with everybody. Part of the reason that subsequent shows happened is because we discovered that we missed each other. I know it sounds kind of fluffy, but I think everybody felt really good being around each other again.” Singer Dan Schafer continued, “Yeah, it’s funny because they said, ‘Oh, we got a new idea’ and I’m like, ‘Oh hell no.’ Then they sent it over and immediately the words and a melody, the ‘together not together’ popped in my head and I’m like, ‘Oh shit.’ I knew right then and it just changed everything. It was really effortless. It literally just came out of them and it came out of me. We could either move forward with it or set it off to the side, but it didn’t seem right to do that, so here we are.”
This Saturday, Sludgeworth will celebrate the release of their new EP with a sold-out show at the Beat Kitchen. When asked about the event, McQuaid said “Since that first show at Cobra, I think every show we’ve played has gotten better and better. Also, there was a real energy in the room that night at Cobra and I’m hoping to feel that again at Beat Kitchen. It’s a tight room and I think that has something to do with it. You see all these people that you haven’t seen in years or decades. It’s almost like a family affair, so that’s the vibe I’m looking for.”
Regarding next steps, the band shared that they plan to maintain their weekly practice schedule, with hopes of recording a new full-length this fall. While Schafer resides in downstate Illinois, he often collaborates with the rest of the band over email. “They usually record their rehearsals and then they’ll send them to me. I listen to it and I’ve been sending some ideas to them as well. We’ve been doing this kind of back and forth. They get together every week, so they sound pretty tight,” he said. McQuaid concluded the discussion by reflecting on the current state of the band. He said, “We’re all older now, so we’ve got kids and stuff. For a while, we had this life that was just like making sure that your kid stays alive and you pay the bills, and that was pretty much it. And then this came along and it’s a big hit again. So, I’m really grateful for that. I think we’re going to hold on to this for as long as we possibly can.”
The Brokedowns – Maximum Khaki
Red Scare – Release Date: 1/20/23
Last Friday, The Brokedowns released their sixth full-length and fourth for Red Scare, titled Maximum Khaki. The album exhibits the band operating at peak efficiency and further refining their take on big-shouldered Chicago punk with touches of post-hardcore and garage punk. The record’s first song, “Obey the Fumes”, starts with a rousing intro lead and a bouncy rhythm that carries through to the verse. It’s catchy, punchy and to-the-point, and evokes shades of Toys That Kill. “Ernest Becker at a Costco” features a fuzzy guitar solo that enjoys a nice interplay with the vocal melody. The song then quiets for a brief spell, only to slowly amplify in intensity before the entire band lets loose one last time.
“UK82 Pt. 2: The Olds Are Not Alright” balances melody and dissonance and has an inventive vocal lead that slyly steals the limelight, while “Samurai Sword Decontrol” contains one of the album’s biggest choruses, with drum parts that perfectly accent the singing. “Honk If You’re Horny” is another first-rate entry, complete with a reckless rhythm and a sense of danger in the verse. It subtly recalls Chicago greats The Arrivals and employs infectious call and response vocals.
Maximum Khaki’s recording, courtesy of producer Joe Gac, bears mentioning as it captures the rawness of the band’s live shows, but also allows each individual instrument or voice to shine at the appropriate times. And the album of course earns bonus points for creative song titles like “Osama Van Halen” and “Satan in Quarantine”. Be sure to catch The Brokedowns’ record release show this Saturday at the Burlington Bar. They’re playing with Chinese Telephones, Dangerous Chairs, and Permanent Residue, and tickets are available here.
Sludgeworth – “To Be the Same”
We recently caught up with some of the band members and discussed this seminal record. When asked about their impressions when they listen to these songs now, drummer Brian Vermin said “A lot of years went by before I revisited it. Once my son showed an interest in music and wanted to know more about the bands I was in, I played him Losers of the Year. His response was ‘these songs could still be popular today,’ so obviously the young boy has great taste. The songs are a timestamp in my life.” Singer Dan Schafer added “I also went years without listening to Sludgeworth and forgot that I used to intentionally sing a little gruffer. Honestly, I might have subconsciously imitated James Hetfield from Metallica, although I never would have admitted it then, (laughs).”
We’re sharing the video for one of the unreleased songs below, called “To Be the Same”. When recalling what inspired the creation of this song, Schafer said “I can remember playing bass with Brian and Dave, (guitarist Dave McClean). Strat, (bassist Mike Hootenstrat) was running late to practice and we started playing the parts via improvising. I thought about the idea of turning a blind eye to what is clearly wrong for fear of not fitting into the group. The words ‘To Be the Same’ came out and I rolled with the concept.” Guitarist Adam White shared his thoughts from a stylistic standpoint and said “I feel like we found a groove and went with it. I hear a lot of Fugazi influence in this song and love that. I liked that Sludgeworth kept experimenting with different stuff and did not fall into any simple formula like a Ramones-type band.”
When speaking about how the two unreleased songs complement the rest of the album, White said “I was actually surprised how well they fit in as far as the production and sound quality, but I always felt that these songs needed to be released. They’re definitely a good representation of our music and style.” Schafer was also pleased with their inclusion and said “I always liked how the record was sequenced, but was encouraged to find some unreleased tracks. These two were the obvious choices. I thought they were lost forever, but they were somehow thankfully retrieved.” Check out the video below and be sure to pre-order the record here.
The Methadones to Release “This Won’t Hurt…” for the First Time on Vinyl
This month, The Methadones are releasing their 2007 full-length This Won’t Hurt… for the first time ever on vinyl. The album was remastered earlier this year by Collin Jordan at The Boiler Room and features a bonus track called “Take Me to Japan.” The record is up for pre-order now via Red Scare and will be available at the band’s upcoming shows. Catch The Methadones on Saturday, 6/11 when they play Reggie’s for T1 Fest with Josh Caterer Trio, Dan Vapid & The Cheats, Capgun Heroes, and Hayley and the Crushers. Also be sure to check out the remastered version of “Already Gone” below.
Additional Upcoming Shows
7.02.22 – Red Flag – St. Louis, MO
7.15.22 – Punk Rock Raduno – Bergamo, Italy
10.29.22 – THE FEST – Gainesville, FL
Sam Russo – Refuse to Lose
Red Scare – Release Date: 4/23/21
Last month, Sam Russo released a surprise EP via Red Scare, called Refuse to Lose. With his previous full-length, Back to the Party, being released in March of 2020, Russo wanted to show his appreciation for everyone who listened to the album during the pandemic. So, he recorded these three songs, all of which are full band interpretations of tracks from Back to the Party. In addition to Russo, the lineup on this EP consists of Chris Stockings on guitar, Garth Vickers on drums, and Alkaline Trio bassist Dan Andriano.
The first entry is an energetic rendition of “The Window.” Despite the added instrumentation, Russo’s voice is still the most prominent element and his assured vocals pave the way during the anthemic chorus. The rest of the band provides a spirited and lively arrangement, elevating a song that was already great and making it even better. “The Basement” is a solemn, introspective number that’s reminiscent of early 2000s emo. Its lyrics are especially personal and read almost like a confessional as Russo reflects on an impactful relationship from the past. The rhythm section really shines on this track, delivering a multitude of unique tempos that keep things interesting throughout. The final song, “Young Heroes,” is upbeat and undeniably catchy, but the earnest nature of Russo’s songwriting is still retained. The song fittingly builds to a rousing sing-a-long and in the best possible way, leaves the listener wanting more.
Refuse to Lose demonstrates the quality of Russo’s songs, as they’re equally enjoyable in either a solo acoustic style or with a full band. Given how well this EP came together, it should be interesting to see what direction Russo opts for on his next release. Until then, those that have yet to sample his two most recent offerings should definitely take this opportunity to do so.
The Reaganomics – The Aging Punk
Red Scare – Release Date: 12/13/19
Last month, The Reaganomics released their first album since 2011 and second for Red Scare, called The Aging Punk. The band is known for their humorous lyrics and proficient musicianship, and both of these traits are found in abundance on this record. The first song, “The Four Clichés,” pokes fun at many of the current trends in the punk rock community, (“I wanna write a good punk song this year / I need to find out what is hip / If I want to write a punk song this year / I better start with the generic shit”). It features dueling melodic guitar leads in its closing minute and also finds the band directing their humor inward, proving they don’t take themselves too seriously. “Dear Jaymez,” as in James Hetfield, is an ode to Metallica that many longtime metal fans are sure to relate to. It mocks some of the group’s flawed albums like Reload and St. Anger, and also boasts a lightning-fast, intricate guitar solo that would likely make Kirk Hammett proud. The song even manages to end with a thrashy outro that recalls the stylings of Metallica’s classic first four records. “Grown Ass Man” is one of album’s funniest tracks, addressing midlife crisis with a menacing bass line and an old school punk vibe. The song just might be all too applicable for those who prefer standing in the back during shows, (“I’m busting out of my jeans / My hairline recedes / There’s a growth on my back and a crick in my knees”). Another notable entry is “Summer Maiden,” which tells the tale of a group of friends who go to see Iron Maiden in the suburbs of Chicago. It includes some of the record’s best guitar leads and strongest drumming, culminating in a full display of this foursome’s love of metal. The Aging Punk finds The Reaganomics significantly surpassing their previous work, both in terms of their songwriting and performances. Producer Dan Tinkler also did an excellent job behind the boards, providing a clean yet powerful recording. Fans of Chicago punk, ‘80s metal or Andrew W.K. shouldn’t delay in checking out this album.
Ramona
Last month, we caught up with Ramona after their set at Riot Fest. We spoke with singer/guitarist Diego Medrano and singer/bassist Abby Vigderman about their debut album, called Deals, Deals, Deals! (Drummer Shannon Ledbetter couldn’t be present and was presumably roaming the festival grounds). We talked about how the band connected with Red Scare for the record’s release, as well as what recording was like, some of the album’s lyrics and more. Deals, Deals, Deals! finds Ramona combining melodic punk with indie rock, and emphasizing personal, introspective lyrics. Thanks to the unique songwriting found throughout, the record is easily one of the most promising debuts of the year. In addition, we discussed the band’s performance at Riot Fest, their plans for new music and more.
Continue Reading…Billy Liar – Some Legacy
Red Scare – Release Date: 6/21/19
Earlier this summer, Billy Liar released his debut album via Red Scare, called Some Legacy. With the record primarily being a full band affair, Liar demonstrates that he’s capable of more than the typical singer/songwriter. He routinely displays his ability to put together unpredictable arrangements and craft unique vocal melodies. The first song, “The View from Here,” is just one example of this. It’s a rousing sing-a-long that contrasts an upbeat rhythm with lyrics that are slightly self-deprecating. One could easily envision Liar playing this song in a packed club with a sweaty, beer-soaked crowd screaming the words back at him. “The Righteous & The Rats” is a topical song about borders and how society’s problems repeat throughout history. With Liar hailing from Scotland, this song clearly isn’t sung from an American perspective and instead has more of a universal appeal. “Pills” might be the album’s catchiest track, as it features a huge chorus that seemingly comes out of nowhere, but transitions in a manner that’s natural and not forced. The song also has somewhat of a loose and reckless feel, sounding like it could go off the rails at any moment, but never does. “Change” is the record’s fastest and most aggressive song, with Liar shouting, “I want see your blood spilled on the stage / I want hear your heart beat through the PA / I want to hear true adolescent rage / I want to be inspired, I want to see something change.” Despite him being seemingly disillusioned with contemporary music, listeners who might feel the same are sure to find plenty of inspiration on this album. Some Legacy was produced by Joe McMahon, (Smoke or Fire) and his influence only helps to solidify what is a decidedly complete debut. In many ways, this is a promising and distinctive record, and it should be very interesting to see where Liar goes from here.
The Brokedowns
Last May, The Brokedowns released their latest full-length and third for Red Scare, called Sick of Space. We recently caught up with singer/guitarist Kris Megyery and talked about how the album was recorded and what some of its songs are about. The record finds the band, (also consisting of singer/bassist Jon Balun, guitarist Eric Grossmann and drummer Mustafa Daka) further evolving their approach to heavy Midwestern punk, complete with lyrics that balance social commentary and humor. The end result is easily The Brokedowns’ most focused and accessible album to date. Additionally, we discussed some of the band’s recent shows, their plans for this year and more. Continue Reading…
Red City Radio
Several weeks ago, Red City Radio played Bottom Lounge and we caught up with singer/guitarist Garrett Dale before the show. We talked about their new EP on Red Scare Industries, SkyTigers, including how it was written and recorded, as well as the origins of its unique title. SkyTigers finds Red City Radio further uncovering their own distinctive sound, while simultaneously making strides with their songwriting capabilities. We discussed what motivated the EP’s style, in addition to some seemingly random topics, like professional wrestling, Charlie Chaplin, Death Row Records and more.
Red City Radio – SkyTigers
Red Scare – Release Date: 3/09/18
Marking their first official release in nearly three years, SkyTigers finds Red City Radio embracing a multitude of new influences to further hone their signature sound. Recorded by Mike Kennerty, (The All-American Rejects) and mixed by Matt Allison, (Alkaline Trio, The Lawrence Arms) the EP not only sounds phenomenal, but also highlights the subtleties found within the detailed songwriting. “If You Want Blood…” is the leadoff track and it contains many of the characteristics found throughout this collection of songs: layered backing vocals, blistering guitar solos and an underlying sense of self-empowerment. “I’ll Still Be Around” opens with a slight country vibe and piano accents, not unlike frontman Garrett Dale’s solo EP from last year, before the rest of the band comes in and provides a sturdy framework that spotlights the talented rhythm section. “In the Shadows” is an ominous rocker that recalls 80’s metal and boasts the record’s most intricate guitar leads, while “Rebels” is a defiant, melodic anthem that’s sure to elicit significant crowd response when played live. With the title track, RCR has managed to craft a uniquely structured six-minute entry that champions positivity. It’s largely built around a piece of dialogue from the 1940 film The Great Dictator, reinforcing a message of inclusion and persistence, which seems especially relevant nowadays. SkyTigers sees Red City Radio further differentiate themselves from their peers with topnotch musicianship and the merging of multiple genres. These five songs represent a new era for the band and should leave fans anxiously awaiting their next full-length.
Sincere Engineer
Last month, Sincere Engineer released its debut full-length on Red Scare Industries, titled Rhombithian. We recently met up with singer/songwriter Deanna Belos to discuss the album, including what its recording process was like, how the band’s other musicians came together and the story behind its title. We also spoke about Sincere Engineer’s pairing with Red Scare and how that partnership came to be, as well as what some of the record’s songs are about, future touring plans and more. Rhombithian blends elements of Chicago punk with a subtle emo undercurrent, providing a distinctive backdrop for the introspective lyrics and dynamic vocals. By any measure, it’s a noteworthy debut and one that’s likely to leave listeners eager to find out where Sincere Engineer goes from here. Continue Reading…
League of Nations Tour
This Sunday, Red Scare Industries’ League of Nations Tour will descend upon Cobra Lounge. The show features headliner Brendan Kelly, (The Lawrence Arms/The Falcon) along with Red Scare labelmates MakeWar and Good Friend. Hailing from Newcastle, England by way of Northern Ireland, this tour marks the first stateside jaunt for Good Friend, who’s playing in support of their 2016 debut full-length, Ride the Storm. Brooklyn-based MakeWar also released an album for Red Scare last year, Developing a Theory of Integrity, and their performance is likely to include many of the notable tracks from what is an impressively varied, genre-defying record. Lastly, Kelly’s set promises to please hometown fans with hits from his best-known bands, as well as songs from his solo career and perhaps even a new tune or two. The event is all ages and gets underway at 4:00 PM, and tickets can be purchased here.
Garrett Dale – Two Ts
Red Scare Industries – Release Date: 5/26/17
Last week, Red City Radio singer/guitarist Garrett Dale released his debut solo EP, called Two Ts. Comprised of three original recordings, this record features fully-realized arrangements, as opposed to the typical punk frontman just hammering away on an acoustic guitar. These songs not only display Dale’s songwriting expertise, but also demonstrate softer vocals and something distinctly different than the gruff, sing-along punk that Red City Radio is known for. The EP opens with “2016 Was…,” which laments the loss of loved ones and the results of last year’s Presidential election. The song uses a strong folk influence, subtle guitar leads and even a trombone solo to convey its message. There’s also a sense of dry humor throughout, which really helps to lighten the otherwise serious lyrical content. “House Full of Dogs” is next and talks about the various struggles that many encounter in life, especially in regards to growing older, but how those troubles are ultimately outweighed by simple pleasures and good times with friends. The song incorporates piano and saxophone to help create a unique entry that still fits well with the other tracks. The EP concludes with “Down the Rabbit Hole,” a tune about missing home that’s extremely relatable and engaging from start to finish, despite being over five minutes long. Two Ts is recommended for fans of sincere folk/punk, as well as those wanting to hear Dale explore different musical influences. Also, the fact that he’s stretching outside of his songwriting comfort zone will likely lead to exciting results on the forthcoming Red City Radio LP.
Follow Us
-
