Rank-n-File
Records
The
band was formed back in 2015 by hardcore/punk rock lifers Don Mazza (vocals)
and Jason Dovalina (rhythm guitar), who quickly recruited close friends Andy
Spraker (drums), Sean McGuire (bass), and Shaun Andri (lead guitar). True
stories from members' lives and salutations to fallen friends drive the writing
and influence of the album. Each band member has overcome their own significant
obstacles, including incarceration and addiction, and it shows in their lyrics,
activism and commitment to doing everything they can to educate, but not
preach.
Originally
self-released on CD format by the band as Athletes to the Front which sold out
immediately, Hardcore contains two additional tracks (“Mass Hysteria” and
“Blood Clot”). The album also features a cover of Peter and the Test Tube
Babies’ “Banned from The Pubs” and Social Distortion’s 1982 classic “Mass
Hysteria.” The album is a punch in the gut and a kick in the ears that will
make you shout…not in pain, but in complete joy because someone gets it!
Hardcore without the metal wanking and bullshit lyrics that too many bands seem
to have nowadays. These guys are taking the old school sound, before metal
crept into hardcore and taking a step back, but pushing the format ahead at the
same time. Since this is not metal, it’s like a blast from the past, but maybe
others can get their shit together and join in what they are doing and start
more bands that are pure hardcore…maybe the start of a new trend…of doing it
right. Gruff vocals, buzz-saw guitar playing, thick bass, and drums pounded
within an inch of their life, plus awesome lyrics make for an album that is
pure gold for these old ears. Short, to the point songs with no filler, and
yes…all killer…sorry. The last song is truly powerful, listing their departed
friends at the end of the song, a hardcore version of Jim Carroll's “People Who
Died” in a way.
-Rick Ecker
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