HXCChristian.com

The 12 Apostles - Thugs, Punks, and Outcasts

Josh — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:38:50 +0000

I love that whenever anyone conjures up the 12 Apostles of Christ, that we get this image of these great godly men that floated around and never did anything wrong. Like they were some kind of super-humans that were perfect. I remember growing up thinking I could never be perfect like these guys and follow Jesus. As I got older I realized that my perception is far from the truth, as is the perception of most people I believe. What really makes me laugh is that some “religious orders” put these guys on such a high pedestal that no one can touch them. This could not be further than the truth.

Here is a riddle, what do a murderous zealot, a money embezzler, a traitor, a second guesser, and a bunch of fisherman have in common? If you can’t guess, these are the backgrounds of the 12 Apostles. Not glamorous or lofty by any means. But that is how God works, calling the sinners from among us to be his greatest followers. Let’s take a look at and dissect Matthew 6:12-16

“Now it came to pass in those days that He (Jesus) went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, He called the disciples to Himself; and from them He Chose twelve whom He also named apostles: Simon, who He also named Peter, and Andrew his brother; James and John; Phillip and Bartholomew; Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot; Judas the son of James and Judas Iscariot who also became a traitor.”

In this scripture we find that Jesus has recently been tempted by Satan, and that he is now beginning his ministry. He is calling the Apostles to himself, and instead of Jesus choosing the Apostles, he prays to the Father in Heaven. Even Jesus - God Himself - prays, spending time with God and asking what to do and to show guidance on this important decision that would help set the course of His message throughout time. When Jesus got done praying and the father helped to reveal the Apostles to Him, do you think he looked at the bunch of ragtag men and asked God if he was joking? Seriously, if we take a closer look at the some of the Apostles, we see there is hope for us to be great teachers of Christ’s word.

Thomas - aka “The Doubter”

This was the guy that when Christ had risen and presented himself to the Apostles after his resurrection, he still was not sure it was him. Here is Jesus, walking through walls in rooms then being whole in the flesh, and this guy says, “I’m not sure it is really you.” and Christ has to present the nail holes in his hands and the cut in his side to show Thomas that he is in fact Jesus. Oops.

Simon - aka “The Zealot”

Simon is probably one of my favorite Apostles because this guys was hardcore. We need to look at what a zealot is to really get a feel for this guy. Zealots (or Zelotes) were Jewish nationalists that hated the Roman occupation of Israel. They were known to start riots and revolts against the Romans, resulting in many deaths and damage to the city. They were known to carry daggers and stab Roman citizens and soldiers stealthily and slip away. These guys loved the Jews and hated the Romans, plain and simple, they were hardcore Jewish.

The Fishermen - Andrew, Peter, James (The Elder), John

Fishing in ancient Israel was not an easy occupation. Fishermen used nets to catch fish in the Sea of Galilee, they would cast their nets and haul them from their wooded row boats. It was hard and dangerous work, you have to understand that fishermen both loved and feared the sea at the same time (I don’t think they were good swimmers). Fishermen were probably not very educated either. Why would Jesus select fishermen as Apostles? Simple, He wanted to show that He (God) could take the least from us and make them a teacher of God. Jesus took these four men and made them “fishers of men.”

Bartholomew (aka Nathaniel) and Phillip, James “the Son of Alphaeus” (aka James the Lesser) - The Unknown Apostles

Bartholomew who was also known as Nathaniel is really only mentioned once in the New Testament. Bartholomew was the Apostle that said of Jesus “Can anything good come out of Nazareth.” Jesus was from Nazareth, and from what I know about ancient Nazareth, it as a horrible place, or perhaps a small unimportant place. Either way, Bartholomew was questioning the Messianic claims of Jesus, how could someone so important come from somewhere like Nazareth? But that is what is cool about God, using the least of us to make the most impact. Bart (as I like to call him) is also mentioned with Phillip quite a bit. Phillip in fact introduced Bart to Jesus the Christ.

Not much is known about James the Lesser. He is only mentioned a few times in the New Testament. It has been speculated that James the Less may have actually been the brother of Jesus, but has never actually been clarified.

Matthew - The Tax Collector

Much is to be said about tax collectors in ancient Israel. Nobody likes tax collectors, not even today (although the bible commands we pay our taxes to our governments). But in ancient Israel, tax collectors were despised. In short, they were Jews who where collecting taxes for the Romans. They were crooked, they collected more than the Roman government required and kept the rest. They were hated, because the Israel people felt they had sold out to the Romans and were not true to their Jewish heritage. Matthew was a tax collector, perfect for Jesus to use as an Apostle. He would illustrate that anyone can become a follower of Jesus the Christ.

Judas the son of James (aka Thaddaeus)

Not to be confused with the other Judas. Another Apostle that we do not know much about. It is thought that Judas the Son of James may be from Caesarea Philippi and may have been a farmer, or grown up in a family of farmers

Judas Iscariot - “The Traitor”

Maybe the most well known of the Apostles. I find it kind of ironic that the guy who betrayed Jesus is probably the most recognizable of the Apostles. Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and gave him to the Jewish religious leaders for 30 pieces of silver. Amazing that Jesus knew of the betrayal, He broke bread with Judas, He even fingered Judas Iscariot as His betrayer at the last supper. Judas Iscariot ridden with guilt hung himself outside of the city after he betrayed Jesus.

Conclusion

We know that the real focus of the New Testament is Jesus, not the Apostles. He (God/Jesus) chose the Apostles not based on their stature or accomplishments. He chose them to teach them to glorify Himself. To use them as instruments to teach the world. First Corinthians 1:27 says “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” Christ demonstrates this with His Apostles. Christ also said “Follow Me” in the New Testament (he is quoted 19 times). My challenge to you is are you willing to follow Christ? To put yourself aside and be an apostle of Christ? If God can use the 12 apostles, then he can use any among us to accomplish great things here on Earth for the Kingdom of God.

Please understand that I am not formally trained in the bible. If I got something wrong here, my apologies. If you have information to add, please leave a comment.

Debtor - PA Christian Hardcore - Up In Ya Face

Doug Hurt — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 15:38:45 +0000

Debtor is a band that is making waves in the East Coast hardcore scene. In an area that is by all means mainly devoid of a Christian hardcore or punk scene, Debtor is leading the way for Christ into the scene. Being from the Philly area where Debtor is located, I know first hand that bringing their message to the scene is an uphill battle, but one that needs to be done. That being said, Debtor is a hardcore band that has a really unique sound, hardcore mixed with a little punk, and sprinkle in a little post hardcore sound ala Quicksand style and voila, there you have it. Debtor recently signed to Blood & Ink Records which is carrying their first album called “Deliverance,” you can get a copy of their album by visiting Blood & Ink Records.

Interview by Doug Hurt - Contributor to HXCChristian.com

Band: Debtor
Music Style: Hardcore/Punk
Location: Philly Burbs
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/debtorpa

Q: Tell me about the band: How long have you been together? Who are the members? How did the band start?

A: Well, I began the attempts to form this band as far back as Spring of 2006, but it didn’t become a full band until October 2007. That lineup was together for about a year, and then we were on hiatus for about another year before reforming in December 2009 with new members. The new lineup is Jon Eirich (guitar), Jason Warner (guitar), Skot Rudy (bass), Josh Galloway (drums), and myself, Alan Popoli (vocals).

Q: How long have you guys been going to shows?

A: We’re all in our mid-20s, so we all went to our first shows as young teenagers. Average is about 10 years ago.

Q: Have you guys been in other bands?

A: Lots, but probably not bands that anyone has heard of. Jason and I played in Prevail (now Ancestor). Jon has played in a ton of local bands over the years…some recent ones were Sincerely Monroe and Subcolour. He still has a side project called The Rescue. Skot played in some punk and hardcore bands from central PA: Heads Held High, The Standard, and Make It Count.

Q: Tell us about the scene in your area and bands from that area.

A: I love the greater Philadelphia area scene. Bands like Blacklisted and Reign Supreme have put Philly back on the map in recent years. But I grew up in the scene around the city, primarily going to shows in Lansdale, Doylestown, Collegeville, etc. We’ve had plenty of struggles and setbacks, but there are dedicated people here who care deeply about keeping hardcore going. I’m proud of this area. The standards are higher here than what I’ve seen in many other scenes. I have seen bands come and go who never got recognition but who were far better than whatever was happening in the “mainstream,” if you can call it that.

Q: You guys are on Blood and Ink Records, How does that label treat you guys not just as a band but as people? How long have you been with the label?

A: We signed a deal with them July 2009, so we haven’t been with them long. So far we’re very pleased. I have long respected and enjoyed B&I bands like xLooking Forwardx and Ten 33, so I was stoked to work with them. I’ve found that Sean knows good music, and is sincerely invested in improving Christian hardcore. On the personal level, it can be difficult to hang because of the long drive between us, but we’ve spent hours on the phone and have had good times chilling over falafel and beans.

Q: Have you guys been on any tours? if so, alone or with other bands? Do you guys handle your own booking?*

A: I’m sorry to say we have not yet been able to tour, no. We all have full-time jobs or school, and two of us are married. On the bright side, we are blessed to be in an area that has lots of venues and scenes within 2 hours of us. And yes, we do our own booking.

Q: What is the best show you have played so far? Tell us about a horrible time that you have had as a band.

A: The best show has to be our comeback show last December. There were a lot of old friends, and it was the best reaction we’ve gotten yet. Just an all-around good show.

We haven’t had anything too terrible happen to us. The worst show would be back in 2008, when we opened for an indie band in Doylestown, nobody was there, and I tore the butt of my jeans wide open. Really the horrible thing we have to fear is that one of us will get too hyped and ball-tap somebody.

Q: Name some of your band’s influences: Tell us about some bands that we should all be on the look out for.

A: We all like different music. For example, Skot is really into New York style hardcore, while Jason’s favorite band is Living Sacrifice. I write the music though, so what you hear in Debtor is mostly a result of my influences. I think “Advent of a Miracle” by Strongarm is the best record ever made. I literally talked to a guy once who said, “The first time I heard that album…I got saved.” I also love fast, gritty hardcore like American Nightmare, and more emotional stuff like Verse. Another big one is Derringer. They were a great band from central PA that definitely did not get the recognition they deserved. If you like Debtor, do yourself a favor and find a way to get a hold of “Rock & Roll Tragedy” by them.

Bands to look out for:
hardcore (or close enough):
myspace.com/killingyears
myspace.com/thinicehc
myspace.com/redemptionhc
myspace.com/burdenspa
myspace.com/mankindhc
myspace.com/100philistineforeskins
myspace.com/divinitytheory
myspace.com/withincrease

metalcore (or close enough):
myspace.com/ancestor
myspace.com/ohconstantine
myspace.com/cetus

Q: What is your band’s message?

A: It needs to be said that (with a few exceptions) I don’t intentionally approach most songs as “messages.” They are first and foremost individual prayers about spiritual struggle. Yet, a theme seems to have emerged from many of our songs: our dealings with the “problem of evil.” If I had to state it briefly, it’s that suffering, depression and the like should not drive us away from God, but towards him. When faced with evil, the proper response is not to hate God, but to run to him. To run to God in the midst of trial requires humility; to spit in his face shows bitterness and spite. Easier said than done, obviously. The question of evil is as old as the Bible, and we don’t pretend to be able to answer it. The hope is simply to wrestle with it openly, honestly, and faithfully. I believe this is a specially necessary task in a scene where the experience of evil is exactly what has caused almost everyone to reject God.

Q: How do you feel about booking agents and booking agencies in hardcore?

A: I have mixed feelings about them. I love the D.I.Y. ethic, and I believe that spirit is necessary for good hardcore scenes to thrive. But the reality is that there is no authority or standard to appeal to, so the definition of “D.I.Y.” is pretty flexible and arbitrary. So, I think all I can really say is that for my own band, I’d rather book shows myself, but I don’t see how I could condemn a band that uses an agent. There is no standard to denounce with. Bottom line: hardcore D.I.Y. isn’t a hill I’m
prepared to die on. We’ve got enough of those as it is.

That being said, we just silk-screened our own patches last week.

Q: Being in a hardcore band and being individually a part of this scene, how does it make you feel when you hear about Christian bands using the Christian hardcore scene as a way to gain popularity before taking a step into mainstream “hardcore stardom”?

A: I feel very much the same way as I do when a Christian brother or sister leaves the faith. In fact, from what I know of these cases, the people in question either have lost their faith, or never had it in the first place. Like Satan, those people have chosen their own glory over God’s glory. It’s devastating. The temptation is to get mad, but that doesn’t help. The truth is it’s a tragedy, and sadness is the appropriate response.

Q: Have you guys ever demanded a tour rider, deli tray, assorted candy or a specific number of red bulls and imported beers before agreeing to play a show?

A: Every show, man, but the promoters just don’t seem to care enough. What has happened to our scene??

Q: As you do not intentionally go into writing a song with a specific message, you have songs that have strong tones concerning certain topics that kids can really relate to. Most bands can only and will only write about girls or will talk about politics. Some other bands will write lyrics that sound like praise songs from the 80’s that don’t quite mesh with what today’s hardcore crowd will accept… When you show up to play a show, do you have people there that will debate your lyrics and what you guys are about; or is it mainly people talking trash just because they know you guys are a Christian band?

A: Hah yeah…well first of all, if a band isn’t going to say something worth saying, they absolutely should not be screaming it. In truth, if there’s no fire in your belly - if there’s no seed of discontentment with the status quo - then it’s just a matter of time before you phase out of hardcore and blend completely into the rest of the world.

As for responses from non-Christians, it’s a very mixed bag. On the negative side, there is a large segment of our local scene who reject wholesale the idea of Christian hardcore, and it can be difficult even to get on a show with those bands. For people like that, we don’t count as hardcore, just as Christian music, and it makes more sense for us to play with Christian metalcore bands than with atheist hardcore bands. On the flip side, there are those who don’t much care about beliefs and just want
to rock out. We don’t preach from stage or give any kind of altar call, and they like our music, so they don’t much care that we’re screaming about God. Some flat out disagree with our beliefs, but sing along to certain parts anyway. As an aside to Christians who are in bands or considering starting them: I think the average hardcore kid cares a lot less about beliefs than he may say; what he really cares about is being bored. I think you can get away with a lot more boldness than you might think, so long as you’re not boring while you’re doing it.

Unfortunately, we don’t get as much debate about our lyrics as I’d like it. If people have a problem, they generally express it by trash talking via the internet or when we’re not around, or just ignoring us. I would love to see greater numbers of people debate with us! The best responses, though, are the odd/obscure threats, as in a recent fun case where a metal band took the
stage after us and commanded the Christians in the room to “fall on my hammer!”

Q: If you could go back to any year, and you had 24 hours to do anything at all… what would you do?

A: First choice: meet Jesus or Paul and listen to them. Second choice, go WAY back, and tame a Velociraptor.

Q: Which is better… XBOX 360 or PS3? Hockey or Football? Chicken or Steak? Dr Pepper or Mr Pibb?

A: Don’t know, Hockey, Chicken, Dr. Pepper.

Q: What would you like to say to those reading this, especially the ones that have never heard of your band or maybe stumbled across our website by chance?

A: That’s tough. I guess if I had to say anything, it would be that there is nothing worth living for but God.

MY… Where Has The Time Gone?

Doug Hurt — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:23:01 +0000

Written by Doug Hurt - Contributor to HXCChristian.com

I miss the “good ole days”. That is really the only statement that I can make. People were going to shows for the pure fact that that is where they truly wanted to be. They wanted to be a part of something. And the bands that were a part of this scene were ready to book a show with friends that they had. The thought of a booking agency was just unheard of. If you saw someone new, you would walk up and introduce yourself.

Let us fast forward to now. I am not a fan of these days of so called “hardcore”. I put hardcore in parenthesis for the fact that the true meaning of why this was all started is no longer alive. It is no longer shows, we have concert events. Bands have these big named booking agencies that will not talk to you unless you go through their agent. And their agents will not talk to you unless you have a cool concert promotion name and are willing to pay a so called “hardcore” band $8000 to come play with a stage plan and a tour rider. I have always said… if you want to become rich, go be in a bar band playing creed covers.

The fact is that most of the people that were all about hardcore pride we’re the ones that turned their backs and said “Forget this!” Now they hang out at the bars listening to talentless indie rock talking about how the “kids” are dumb and need to grow up.

Now is a time that we have to make a choice to just either walk away from all of this and let the ones that have no idea what this was about and should be about, or we step up and say “Enough is enough! We want this scene back!”

Bands should stop writing songs about taking it all back and lead by example and actually take it back. That means book your own shows and stop giving 15% to someone else that has no clue what is going on at your shows. It is time for kids to learn how to book and promote shows and start booking shows and paying the bands what the bands deserve. It is time for kids to start going to shows with the whole principle that we are gathering as a family.

I place a lot of this pressure on the bands. Especially our Christian bands. Jesus did not need a booking agent to tell him when he could go do his work. You guys that call yourselves a Christian band have a responsibility to go out and tell this scene that they are loved and that there is a God of compassion and generosity out there. I can tell you that when kids hear about bands making $12,000 and are Christian and then sell their merch for outrageous prices, these bands put an even more sour taste in their mouths about Christianity being a big business. I am sure some bands will say “We need this money to live.” To that I say, get a job. Ministry is not for those that are worried strictly about money. If the band is what God’s purpose is for you, then you and your families will reap the benefits of heaven now. And some bands have said “We have to pay for this bus.” Then sell it! Buy a van and trailer. It is not that hard. And if you are unsigned, why do you have a booking agent? Really? You are a band doing what you love with your friends, why take away from the true meaning of what this is all about by making it about business?

I place the pressure on the kids booking shows that they do what they can to have a safe place for kids and to do what they can to make sure these bands are blessed. This means putting yourself out there and showing these bands that you are booking shows for the right reasons and that you are not pocketing $1000 off of a show that made $1500 especially charging $15 for a show and not promoting for it at all. We never had contracts back then. But we booked shows and made it, and if people kept
screwing over bands, then we would send our friends in other bands to book elsewhere.

I also place pressure on the old schoolers to show the new kids what the scene is really about. How are these kids supposed to know if we just take the quick exit? There are still a lot of us out there that can show these kids that this is not just a concert experience, this is a life experience.

So we need to start booking shows with bands that are strong enough to book their own shows. If they are on a label that makes them use an agent, then someone should start a label that lets the bands play where they want to play and when they want to play. We need to start showing these bands that if they want to play to a crowd with no heart or soul that they can do those shows without us.

So in closing, hardcore was never about agents, tour riders, managers or making the big bucks. It was about reaching out to kids. Plain and simple, bands are just people in bands. The key word is “people.” That means you are not better than the kid that had to save money all week just so he could pay to come to your show.

So take a step back this week and spend just one day thinking about what I have talked about. If you have any questions or comments you can email me at doug @ hxcchristian. com

Sovereign Strength - SoCal Hardcore

Josh — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:26:23 +0000

Sovereign Strength has been a staple in the Christian hardcore scene out in Southern California since forming in 2006. The band has an impressive hardcore sound that is sure to make you want to get up and move. The band contacted me and asked if I would review a song on their upcoming album due out in late February/early March. I liked it so much I asked if they wanted to do an interview, so read below and find out about these guys and remember to support your underground hardcore bands. By they way, if you like bands like Figure Four and Sleeping Giant, you will be a fan of Sovereign Strength.

Band: Sovereign Strength
Music Style: Hardcore
Location: Palmdale, CA
Myspace Page: http://www.myspace.com/sovereignstrength

Q: Give us some background on Sovereign Strength, when did the band form, where and how did you guys come up with the name?

A: Sovereign Strength was formed in the suburbs of the Antelope Valley, CA on January 2006. We basically came up with the name by flipping through the bible. Sovereign Strength meaning that the Sovereign Lord holds the strength that we all need to overcome when were faced with oppoisition.

Q: What does everyone do in the band when they are not playing?

A: All I do is hang with my girlfriend, work, write new riffs, and play MW2, haha. Jordan works full time and also has a girlfriend, Jesse hangs with his girlfriend and works at a local venue, and Tony works full time and plays MW2 also! [RSQD] tillidie.

Q: Sovereign Strength has a new album coming out very soon on Mediaskare Records when is the record set to drop? What is the albums name? When can we get our hands on it?

A: The album is called “Reflections” and its scheduled to drop in late Feb/early march. You will be able to pre-order it with package deals through our myspace and buy it on Itunes, Smart Punk, and Best Buy. Buy it, download it, get it somehow and come sing along!

Q: I have heard the track you have posted on Myspace “Half & Half” from the new album, I really like it, seems a bit heavier than some of the older stuff from SS, what can we expect on the new album?

A: Hmmm what to expect…more heavy jams! We re-recorded a few older songs and we have alot of new songs as well as an instrumental. Its some of the best stuff we feel we have written as band and can’t wait to release it to the public.

Q: We are not familiar with Mediaskare Records, do they have other Christian hardcore bands signed to the label?

A: Yes, they have a Christian hardcore band called Hundredth and also bands such as As Blood Runs Black, The Ghost Inside, Endwell, Suffokate, Burning The Masses, Betrayal, Murder Death Kill, etc. We are real greatful to be on such a great roster.

Q: What bands have influenced the sound of Sovereign Strength?

A: Mainly bands like For The Fallen Dreams, The Acacia Strain, Bury Your Dead, and Figure Four. Figure Four is my all time favorite hardcore band and I feel always will be.

Q: Sovereign Strength is a Christian band, you have played with bands that are Christian and are not, how is your message received in the hardcore scene?

A: We have always been the Christian band in the scene that doesn’t try and shove anything down anyones throat
and have been respected for it. We feel like we are a Christian hardcore band for the kids that don’t want to share with everyone in room that they want to be saved. After shows in private we have kids come up to us asking for guidence and help them with the feelings there feeling that they can’t explain why there feeling them. Which we know is God touching there hearts. Sometimes those kids need to be reached to in a different way.

Q: Ever had anyone accept Christ as their savior at a Sovereign Strength Concert?

A: Yes we have! We feel like what we are striving to do through our music is fulfilled. Its amazing!

Q: Where in the bible does the band draw it’s inspiration from? Any verses or books of the bible in particular?

A: We honestly just write about what happens in our lives that we struggled with or any opposition that we have faced and how God has helped us through it.

Q: What has been the most memorable Sovereign Strength show? Why? What was the craziest show you have played?

A: I would have to say Tom Fest. We came in not knowing what kind of fan base we had. I mean we were playing at 10 o’clock in the morning so we figured everyone would of been asleep but we had a 100+ crowd so we were beyond stoked! Craziest show would have to be one of our hometown shows, AVHC sets it off everytime.

Q: What are the future plans for the band? Are you planning on touring? Playing Cornerstone this year perhaps?

A: Future plans are to constantly tour when the album comes out! We just got on the Love As Arson Booking Agency so we are expecting to be on the road alot. Expect seeing us on a tour with A Plea For Purging in spring! We actually just got a stage confirmed at Cornerstone this year and were waiting on a few more. We can’t wait for 4[?] days of fellowship and worship.

Q: If you guys could pick any venue and the bands playing at a show with SS, where and who would it be?

A: I would have to say The Foundry in Missouri! Pretty much anything Demo Donnie puts together he always hooks it up with good BBQ and the whole staff just has amazing hospitility. I’d personally be real stoked to share the stage with P.O.D they have been one of my favorite bands growing up as well as some other nu-metal acts.

Q: Now to get serious….sneakers or docs, boxers or briefs, who can beat Chuck Norris?

A: Jordan our vocalist could beat anyone up with the outfits he puts together, haha.

Sovereign Strength Live

Click here to view the embedded video.

Q: If you could give the hardcore community a message, what would it be?

A: Through “one” act of sin we all must taste death. But the gift of God, his son, brings justification and life to all who believe despite “countless” sins.

Q: Feel free to share any bands we need to check out that the band is listening to, shout-outs, share websites you visit, etc. Thanks for the interview guys and hope to see you in Raleigh NC soon!

A: Be on the look out for the entire Mediaskare Records roster. Almost every band on the label has a new amazing release coming out in 2010. Also be on the look out for our dudes in MONSTERS, there amazing dudes.
Follow all our twitters!
twitter.com/NelsonSTRENGTH
twitter.com/TonySTRENGTH
twitter.com/YesseSTRENGTH
twitter.com/SovStrength

Despised Youth Records Talks With HXC Christian

Josh — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 22:00:51 +0000

I am excited to introduce you to Despised Youth Records. You are probably not familiar with DYR, but I am sure that you will be. Despised Youth is catering to the Christian hardcore and punk scene and signing bands that are true to those roots. So, hopefully they will stick to that and keep the screamo/metalcore stuff off the label (hint hint). I recently caught up with Jenna from Despised Youth and had the chance to ask her a few questions about the new label. All I can say about DYR is that there is buzz out there about them. Some of the bands they are talking to about signing are pretty impressive and are really excited about the possibility of working with the label. I am sure that we will have more news about DYR, the bands they sign, and the albums they release in the near future.

Q: How did Despised Youth Records come to be? Explain the affiliation to Open Grave Records.

A: I am a huge punk fan myself and I don’t see enough punk/hardcore record labels in the scene that are friendly toward Christian bands so I decided to start one. I approached James, an owner of Open Grave Records and promoted the idea. He agreed with me and we decided to partner up and founded this label.

Q: I have already heard from some bands that you are making waves in the industry, what is Despised Youth Records doing different that other labels are?

A: We want to help the bands that are very hard working but just don’t have the money for promotion and the means to spread the music to the audience. We want to revive the punk scene.

Q: What kind of music are you hoping to capture on the label?

A: We noticed that most other labels focus on hardcore that have metal influences so we want to focus on punk and pure hardcore similar to 80’s or even the 90’s hardcore scene.

Q: Can you share any bands that Despised Youth will be working with? Who is signing? Who have you approached…if you can share that kind of info without hurting any deals.

A: We do have the Anti Hell Society re-release album and we are in talks with several bands at the moment. Announcements will be posted very soon!

Q: What formats are you going to put music out on? CD/LP/Etc?

A: CD and digital download format

Q: How can the general public get a hold of your stuff once you start to release?

A: We will be selling at Divine Metal Distro and various retailers.

Q: When is Despised Youth planning to release its first album?

A: We have preorder for Anti Hell Society re-release album up at Divine Metal Distro right now (Click here to see ordering info).

Q: Anything else you want to share with the general public or add…shout outs, etc…

A: Raise your fist and keep the punk scene alive! Check out the other record labels under Open Grave Records if you dig other types of music like metal or rock.

You can visit the Despised Youth Records blog and see what news the label has. Check back for updates, I think that DYR will have some great bands sign to the label in the upcoming weeks. Good luck and thanks for the interview and God bless!

Introducing “Thin Ice” - Texas Hardcore

Josh — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 02:41:24 +0000

Some of the guys from Thin Ice contacted me about the band. They thought their music and message needed to spread, and I agree. These guys are pumping out some serious hardcore tunes. Texas (where the band hails from) and Southern California seem to be hot-spots right now for Christian hardcore and punk.

Thin Ice very recently signed with Blood & Ink Records, good catch guys, I am glad that you are getting back to your hardcore roots. I certainly look forward to hearing Thin Ice’s first full length on Blood & Ink. You might also want to check out the bands hardcore cousin Goldmill, It would be really cool if B&I would also get some of their stuff out there. Be sure to support Thin Ice, buy their merch, see the live, tell them you read about them here!

Band Name: Thin Ice
Music Style: Hardcore
Home Town: Texas
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thinicehc

Q: When did Thin Ice form? Where did the name Thin Ice come from?

A: Thin Ice formed in June 2009. My guitarist, Chris, and I started writing some heavy riffs and decided it would be fun to find other members and start playing shows. As far as our name goes, there’s really no meaning behind it. It’s Just something Chris, me, and a few other friends (not in the band) came up with.

Q: What does everyone in the band do when you are not playing? Which members are also members of Goldmill (which I might add is also a pretty sweet HXC band, when is Goldmill signing to B&I)?

A: We’re all in school, besides Bruce who is already out and is a high school geometry teacher. Chris and Phil both go to school about 3 hours out from San Antonio, so we have to work around that. Some of us work too. Other than that, we still like to play music outside of the band, and I actually write songs for other projects as well. All of us, besides Chris and Phil, are in Goldmill.

Q: What bands have influenced Thin Ice?

A: Turmoil, Figure Four, Advent, Trial, Terror, you get the idea. Heavy bands.

Q: How do you describe the sound of Thin Ice?

A: Energetic, heavy, and “dark” at times.

Q: Thin Ice recently signed with Blood & Ink records, congrats to you guys, what does this mean for the band? How did you get hooked up with the B&I team?

A: Thank you! Well, we want to make this band the best it can be. We are planning on touring and taking the band to new levels in the coming years. Blood & Ink actually came to us. They came across Goldmill’s myspace page and saw Thin Ice on the top friends. They messaged us and said they dug the tunes and the rest is history.

Q: Has Thin Ice started recording a full length album yet? If not, when are you planning on getting into the studio?

A: We are planning on releasing an E.P., which I recorded at my home studio, with Blood & Ink digitally sometime this month or next month. We have started writing material for a full length, but recording is far in the future.

Q: I assume that Thin Ice is a Christian band since it is signing with B&I?

A: It is!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Thin Ice - Brainwashed

Q: Where do you guys place your faith in your music? Can you share how Christ has influenced the band?

A: The lyrics in nearly every song talk about our faith and sometimes our lack of faith in Jesus Christ. Through our ups and downs, He has been there and He will continue to be.

Q: What is the purpose of Thin Ice?

A: Our purpose is to show God’s love and play hardcore music.

Q: Have other bands or people been surprised when they learn that Thin Ice is a Christian band?

A: Some people have been surprised.

Q: I noticed that you guys have a pretty big show coming up on February 26th at the White Rabbit in San Antonio, Texas. Looks like Thin Ice is playing the Abominable Snow Tour with Living Sacrifice, War of Ages, Shai Hulud, Lion Heart, and The Great Commission. Who is the band looking forward to seeing and meeting out of that lineup?

A: Living Sacrifice for our bassist and singer. Chris, Drew and I are really into Shai Hulud.

Q: What other shows does the band have lined up for 2010, will you guys be touring in 2010?

A: We don’t have much scheduled right now. We are planning on doing a summer tour, and before that, hopefully a small spring break tour.

Q: If you could give the hardcore scene one message, what would it be?

A: We love you.

Q: Feel free to share anything else, shout-outs, bands we should be listening to (or the band really likes), links to sites you like, etc.

A: Thanks for the interview and good luck and God bless!

Thank you! Check out Goldmill www.myspace.com/goldmillhc and Hope of Divine Mercy www.myspace.com/hodm

Exit Interview With The Deal

Josh — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:39:44 +0000

A few months back The Deal announced they were getting back together to play a bunch of shows, well, they did, and boy did they play some good shows, topping it off with an appearance at Cornerstone. You can read the first interview HERE, and you can watch all the video from C-Stone HERE.

Well, our friends from The Deal are officially done with their official reunion and that makes me sad, however, the band has been reincarnated into El Death, which features many members of The Deal including lead singer Collin. So, we will miss you guys, and even though you are done, we ask, really?

Band Name: The Deal
Music Style: Street Punk/Oi!
Hometown: Chino, CA
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thedeal

Q: The Deal just announced (within the last couple of months) that you were getting back together, was that officially just a short term thing or are there other reasons that The Deal is retiring again?

A: Yeah, The Deal reunion was always intended to be a short run. We found ourselves all in the same room at the same time, and figured why not? The plan from the start was to do a large show in the Chino area, our hometown, and a run out to Cornerstone, trying to stop at some places on the way, visit some friends, and give some people a chance to see The Deal play one more time; for some, the first time.

Q: The Deal has touched so many peoples lives with their music, their message, and the love of Christ, what do you want to say to all the adoring fans out there?

A: I don’t know that I would go as far as to use a line like “ALL the adoring fans out there”, but with all the humility we have, we say ‘thank you’. We’ve had all kinds of people thank us for our music, message and so on. The truth is it’s the people that went to the shows that deserve all the thanks. You have to understand, we were fresh out of high school, if that, and given the opportunity to travel places, meet people and experience things we never imagined at such a young age, 100% because people, drove for miles, shelled out their hard earned money and supported US.

Q: Most of you guys are also playing in El Death (that is an anagram for The Deal if you didn’t know already), what can we expect from El Death now that Colin has officially joined the band? Who is not in El Death that was in The Deal?

A: El Death is a name that has been thrown around for years and years, even as The Deal was in full swing. A product of driving miles and miles with nothing to do but entertain yourselves, it was only natural to take the letters of THE DEAL and see what else could be made of it. It was only in the recent years that it has turned into the name of a band. It’s bit of a revolving door of musicians giving us the advantage / challenge of exploring different avenues of music. The Deal reunion was staffed by the original founding members of the band with one exception. Rick Remender, who was the original drummer and eventually transitioned to guitar, remained on guitar for the reunion and Dave Edmunds filled the drum spot. Both Rick and Dave were members of El Death as well until their exit following The Deal reunion tour. Nothing devious or juicy, everybody still loves everybody. As the years go by, we all seem to come together, move apart, and eventually back together, as brothers do. As for what to expect, guys getting together, sharing ideas and writing music they love listening to and playing.

Q: What is the difference between The Deal and El Death? Seems like the music of El Death is still pretty aggressive, but perhaps a bit more polished and laid back than The Deal.

A: I would say any difference would simply be the maturity and development of the soul and mind. It’s aggressive yes, but with attention to grove, melody and style. Fellow musicians seem to dig it.

Q: Is El Death considering itself a Christian punk band as well?

A: Well let’s address the easy part of that question. El Death does not consider itself a punk band. As for whether or not we are a Christian band, no. For some of us, and by ‘us’ we mean the thousands of believers around the world, who have a passion and God given talent to entertain with our music, writing, acting, painting, or juggling for that matter, the idea that once a relationship with Jesus Christ has begun, any and all artistically expressive acts should look or sound a certain way, has become quite the hot button topic. Some people try to determine the strength and validity of a believer’s faith based only on what they say, do, or sing about. And although scripture does speak to how we should speak and act, we believe far too much emphasis has been placed only on those things, so that someone doesn’t actually have to get to know someone, before they determine if the are a “good Christian” or not. The fact is, this isn’t something that can be intelligently discussed in a short interview, but please know this, if anyone reading this wants to truly know if any one person has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, calls Him the Lord of their life and wants nothing more than His will to be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven, these are all conditions of the heart. Getting to know the heart of a person takes time and effort. What a person does or says are simply actions that can be used to paint a picture of who that person wants others to believe they are. The power of Christ gave him the ability to see the heart. Without that power, much more effort is needed by us to come along side the fellow sinners of this world and share the love and forgiveness of Jesus regardless of their current spiritual condition, saved or not. Fellow believers don’t take the easy way out. The Son of God died on a cross so that we may know him. The least we can do with our short time here, is get to know each other.

Q: Can fans attending an El Death show expect to hear a few songs from The Deal now that Colin is singing?

A: In short, no. They’d stick out like a sore thumb.

Q: Can you guys share a story that will stay with the members of The Deal forever, perhaps the best show, when people got saved at a show, something that most people wouldn’t know about the band?

A: Things we learned on the road:

5 guys + gear + merch CAN fit in a mini van but they never SHOULD fit in a mini van.

People in a McDonalds at 5am on a Wednesday in Nebraska DON’T look like us.

Hotel microwaves are NOT made to cook 5 frozen meals in a row.

Justin Timberlake and Natalie Portman can bring the funny.

Gas station food + long miles = unhappy digestive system.

Q: Cornerstone was officially The Deals last show, what was it like playing Cornerstone for the last time as The Deal?

A: Playing there is always very special. Much has changed. Some things haven’t.

Q: The Deal has touched so many lives and made such an impact in the Christian hardcore/punk music scene over the years. You have consistently shared Jesus Christ with so many people through your music that would have probably never heard the message of Christ or would have never even thought that people and music like The Deal could be Christians. You have influenced so many bands over the years and surely inspired them to play Christian hardcore & punk, that The Deal will be sorely missed? Please share any parting thoughts, words of encouragement, whatever you guys would like to share, feel free.

A: Again, a heart felt thank you to the people that made our travels possible. The kind words and appreciation that was shown to us over the past year was amazing and very special. We’ll carry it with us always.

Video Interview With Destroy Nate Allen

Josh — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:50:05 +0000

RJ had the chance to sit down with Nate and Tessa of Destroy Nate Allen. For those who don’t know Destroy Nate Allen, they are an interactive, sing along, folk punk duo from Portland, Oregon. Their music is addictive and really grows on you. For a full review of their latest album (which is actually two albums in one) click here. So RJ, as I said earlier, did a really cool video interview with Nate and Tessa. This married couple is a riot and you will enjoy the interview. There are two parts, so be sure to watch each half! To read more about Destroy Nate Allen, you can visit their website www.destroynateallen.com or visit their myspace page. Nate and Tessa are on tour until the end of 2009, so check them out if they are coming to your town!

Destroy Nate Allen Interview Part 1

Click here to view the embedded video.

Destroy Nate Allen Interview Part 2

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Wake Into The Nightmare; Louisiana Does it Again!

Josh — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 22:03:05 +0000

Hardcore with a classic NYC feel to it is really hard to find these days. But Wake Into The Nightmare does a pretty good job of styling their sound after some of the classic hardcore I am used to. On their myspace page, you can listen to a pair of songs and get a feel for what their upcoming album will sound like. Hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where there seems to be a hot bed of good hardcore these days. These guys have been through their share of trials losing their original lead singer whom passed away in 2006, the band has pushed on and today is stronger than ever. Read on and find out about Wake Into The Nightmare’s new upcoming album, their upcoming tour, and how they share their faith in Jesus Christ.

Band: Wake Into The Nightmare
Music Style: Hardcore
Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Myspace Page: WWW.MYSPACE.COM/WAKEINTOTHENIGHTMARE

Q: How did Wake Into The Nightmare get its start, what is the significance of the name Wake Into The Nightmare?

A: WITN started with three members, two whom are still in the band, just decided they wanted to start playing shows and have a lot of fun. The original vocalist passed away in 06′ and he came up with the name so in his honor we decided to keep the name.

Q: Did members of the band come from other bands that we might know?

A: No, everyone came from random local bands around the Baton Rouge area.

Q: What does everyone in the band do when they are not playing?

A: Garrett and Chase work at a mall, Trent works at a Restaurant, Tyler works for the state, and Jack works at a Restaurant when he’s not working at oil refineries

Q: What bands or music styles have influenced the band, in “Draw the Line” on your myspace page I pick up a NYC hardcore vibe with some No Innocent Victim mixed in there, am I far off?

A: Yes, a lot of people tell us that song has some New York style parts haha. Some bands that have influenced us..Definitely Terror, Hatebreed, Remembering Never, OLD 18 Visions, Madball, and of course Toby Keith and Weezer HAHA, no but seriously.

Q: How do you explain the fact that you are a Christian hardcore band to people that 1) don’t understand hardcore and 2) think that the style of music you play could not possibly be Christian?

A: 1) Hardcore music was originally meant to prove a point and spread a belief whether it be political, religious views, etc. 2) We have a pretty dark sound aligned with the Light that is Christ. We write our music to spread the word in a unique manner to people who would otherwise never hear it, God is very resourceful in the way of choosing ways to spread his word to all who are willing to receive it, and our music is one of these ways.

Q: WITN does not hide the fact that it is a Christian band with lyrics like “I’m waiting on the day my Savior will come, my Savior will come” in the song “Draw the Line,” has anyone (like other bands) ever given you guys a hard time about being Christian?

A: Not at all suprisingly, not saying it won’t happen later down the road, cause I’m sure it will, but even our non christian friends support us no matter what we say or do and we are so thankful for that! I mean we respect them no matter what they have to say and we don’t expect anything back but they have been great to us!

Q: What is the purpose of Wake Into The Nightmare?

A: To show people a fun way to have a relationship with God, and to just hangout!

Q: Where does the band draw its influence from in the bible? Any particular verses or books that have influenced the band?

A: Honestly, We have to many influences to narrow it down to one.

Q: What bands have you guys shared the stage with?

A: Way to many to count, but here are a few: Impending Doom, Whitechapel, Too Pure To Die, As Blood Runs Black, Bury Your Dead, Remembering Never, Endwell, Ligeia, In This Moment, For The Fallen Dreams, Emmure, The Warriors, Since The Flood, Evergreen Terrace, Will To Live, Shai Hulud, Reign Supreme, Murphys Law, First Blood, Bloodlined Calligraphy, Recon, Thick As Blood, and wayyyyy more!

Q: I noticed that WITN has a tour coming up in December of 2009 through January of 2010, have you guys started to book locations? You wanna play my house in Raleigh, NC?

A: Yes, we have been working on booking as many of the shows as possible and yes we have a few of them already booked, others are in the process of being booked. and YES! WE WOULD LOVE TO PLAY AT YOUR HOUSE!

Q: WITN has a full length album coming out soon, can you share some info on that, name of the album? When will it be completed, what were some of the challenges?

A: Yea, we worked on the album for a few weeks up in Athens, Alabama with Brian Hood (former drummer of MY CHILDREN MY BRIDE) it was soooooo fun making it we suggest that more bands should go record with him! It’s a self titled album, and it should be completely mixed in the next week or so, but it won’t released until November probably. And being that we are an unsigned band it was kinda challenging coming up with the funds to go record, but God helped us out and we got the money!

Q: How will all the fans of WITN be able to pick up a copy of the album?

A: They will be on sale at all of our shows, we are in the process of getting merch and setting up our own merch store, and the album will also be on ITUNES!

Q: How is the health of the hardcore scene in Louisiana?

A: It’s ok, it seems like it’s slowly getting stronger though!

Q: If you could give a message to the hardcore scene what would that be?

A: Support underground music, support your local bands, and God is REAL!

Q: Please feel free to share any links, shout-outs, bands you are listening too, or that we should all check out, go wild! Thanks for the interview guys!

A: SHOUT OUT TO ALL OF OUR LOUISIANA FRIENDS WHO HAVE BEEN THERE FROM THE BEGGINNING YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE!, TO THE DARKROOM VENUE (R.I.P.) HELPING US GET OUR START, ANYONE WHO HAS EVER BEEN TO ONE OF OUR SHOWS, CHECK OUT OUR BOYS CHANGE TODAY! YOU WILL DIG THEM (www.myspace.com/changetodayla), SHOUT OUT TO APPLE JUICE, SNYDERS PRETZELS, 2/$1.00 SUNFLOWER SEEDS, N64 GOLDENEYE, AND OLD SCHOOL NICK!
ALSO, OUR CD IS DEDICATED TO JACOB “NIGHTMARE” WHITE AND ALL OF OUR CLOSE FRIENDS WHO ARE NO LONGER WITH US. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

FEEL FREE TO HELP US BOOK OUR TOUR TOO!

OUR MYSPACE LINK: WWW.MYSPACE.COM/WAKEINTOTHENIGHTMARE

THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS!

Wake Into The Nightmare - “Death Proof”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Die Fighting - Southern California Hardcore At It’s Finest

Josh — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 01:22:31 +0000

Die Fighting is a band that you need to keep and ear on. These guys are up and comers in the Southern California Christian hardcore scene. Having played with the likes of Sleeping Giant, Braveheart, Death Come Fast, The Great Commission, Sovereign Strength, Sleeping Giant, and even No Innocent Victim, you can tell these bands have influenced the sound of Die Fighting. Die Fighting is a band that truly puts their faith in Christ in all of their songs. Be sure to check out the band and keep an eye out for their EP they are recording laying down right now. Thanks Isaac (from Braveheart and Road Worn Saints) for the interview, big props, and God bless!

Band Name: Die Fighting
Music Style: Hardcore/Metal/Bro Party
Location (Home Base): Chino, CA
Myspace: www.myspace.com/dfhardcore

Q: Give us a little history of Die Fighting:

A: Die Fighting started in January of 2007, like most young bands we were just a group of friends that found out each one of us played a different instrument. At the time we started we were still just a bunch of high school kids. We were all just kids who had gotten drum sets and guitars as Christmas presents when we were younger and we had fooled around with it enough to be able to play together. Little known fact, at our first practice ever Brian, our vocalist, and our friend Jonny got a little rowdy and went through a big 10’ plate glass window at the Stronghold Venue in Chino. From there we just played anywhere we could get a show and get our music out to anyone who will hear it, and I guess that’s pretty much what we are still doing and will always do.

Q: What does everyone in the band do when they are not playing?

A: Work. Naw we do a lot more than that but we are definitely a hardworking band on and off stage. Jordan (guitar) and Brandon (drums) both work at the same grocery store and Brian works two different jobs so the band can afford what it needs. Matt Dos (bass) is one of the original members of GOD FEARING YOUTH and is also in a pop-punk band based outta riverside, and lives in Anaheim, so we keep him driving a hundred miles a week between Orange County and the Inland Empire. Besides that we always hang out with each other. Wer’e all like brothers. Our biggest tradition and band pastime is hittin’ the Jacuzzi. There’s a community pool next to Jordan’s house that we always hop the fence into. I don’t know how many times a week we end up there, but let’s put it this way, Brandon has the cuzzi tattooed on his calf.

Q: What are some of your musical and lyrical influences?

A: I’d have to say that we have a very broad group of musical influences, ranging from heavy metal from the eighties, to old school hardcore, to all the new wave hardcore stuff that’s popular now. We just love heavy music with passion. As a group I’d say that some of our favorites are bands like Madball, Terror, Seventh Star, and stuff like that. Lyrically,…. Everyday life is really the biggest influence. Things that have happened to us or people we know are really the only influences in our lyrics, it just comes out however Brian writes it down. We’ve never really modeled any of our lyrics or vocal style after another band.

Die Fighting Live - “Jehova Rapha” (God Our Healer)

Click here to view the embedded video.

Q: You guys have a very aggressive sound and a very positive outlook. Is it hard sometimes to bring the two together?

A: No its really not that hard for us to do that. I could see how it might be, but we just play what sounds angry and has the heaviest breakdowns, and then sing what were passionate about on top of that. It’s definitely in your face kind of music, but it’s in your face with a positive message, or if it’s a negative message, it will be pointing something out that needs to be fixed, so the negativity is just a means to a positive end.

Q: What part does faith and the Word play in your music?

A: Our faith plays a large part in our music. Its really not that much of a surprise because our faith is just a large part of our everyday lives. We definitely don’t value anything above our faith and friendship and that is made very clear in our music.

Q: You guys have been coming up pretty strong in the Southern California scene. What do you attribute this to, beside Braveheart taking your sorry butts on tour? LOL

A: Really its just been a lot of hard work, taking time off work that we can’t really afford in order to play shows, taking extra shifts in order to afford the equipment we need. We’ve paid our dues in the scene and opened plenty of shows. A lot of it is just the dedication and friendship between band members. We would never be able to get anywhere if it wasn’t for each of the members personal dedication to the music and the message.

Q: How is the response from non-Christians? And what is your response from Christians?

A: Well we do pretty well with non-Christian audiences just because we are a hardcore band and we aren’t uncomfortably “preachy” between songs. However we are up front with everyone about our faith and we wear our hearts on our sleeves so we’ve had the occasional person walk out during a show if they didn’t like what we were about. As far as Christian audiences are concerned, we’ve always gotten encouragement and support from believers who share our faith and sometimes that is all we need to help us carry on. We’ve met some amazing people both Christian and non-Christian alike that have ended up totally blessing us.

Q: What are some of the other bands that you guys have played with?

A: Well, too many to remember but we’ve played with some bands you might know like War Of Ages, xDeathstarx, A Plea For Purging, Impending Doom, Sleeping Giant, The Great Commission, Project 86, xLooking Forwardx, and No Innocent Victim.

Q: What have been some of the most memorable and influential moments as a band?

A: There is definitely the time we literally came within inches of losing our lives driving back from a show in Modesto, CA when we were on the 99 freeway, times we’ve gotten to pray for people at our shows, and really every time a kid comes up to us and talks to us after a show about what they’re going through and what our songs meant to them.

Q: Name some stories about the worse and the best venues you’ve played:

A: Well there was the time we played a house show in Yuma, AZ. I guess I’d say that was one of the worst “venues” we’ve played but props to Yuma Jeff for opening his house to us. There were literally holes in the drywall of this little house when we were done with it that night. One of our best venue experiences was actually an outdoor show we recently played in Pahrump, NV. We played on a big outdoor stage and they had a big camping trailer there for the bands to hang out in and they took great care of us. It was fully stocked with all the glass bottle IBC soda you could drink and there was this super nice lady who made us all sandwiches. That show actually went so well and they liked what we had to say so much that we ended up doing an interview for the local tv news station after our set.

Q: At the end of the day, what do you hope your music can help accomplish with the people that are listening?

A: The biggest thing we hope for is to bring some hope to our listeners, even if it’s just the encouragement to gather the strength to make it through one more day that’s what were all about. We know that beyond all the fun there is a hurting world and a lot of kids dealing with some heavy stuff and that’s really who were there for. Christian or not, there are a lot of people dealing with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, pornography addiction, cutting, suicide, depression, and broken hearts. We want them to know that they are not alone, that all of us have at one point or another have been there and struggled with those things and that there is hope. Don’t lose heart.

Q: What are future plans for the band? I know you guys are about to go into the studio. Any plans on touring or anything else?

A: Yeah were going into the studio the end of July to record our EP and were really excited. We don’t have anything specific in mind but yes we have high hopes and big goals. We will definitely be touring and that’s really what we all hope to do full time.

Q: What are your thoughts on the hardcore scene today, especially the Christian scene?

A: I don’t even know what to say about that, I have so many mixed feelings about the scene and don’t really wanna step on any toes but all in all, we truly love the scene and see it as one of the biggest and most valuable parts of all our lives. There’s a lot of hype and trend that goes on but no matter what the hardcore scene, both Christian and non Christian alike, is home to kids who have a lot of heart and aren’t afraid to stand up for what they believe. There’s no other group that we would rather be a part of.

Q: If you could give the scene as a whole (Christian and non, alike) one message, what would it be?

A: “if there’s one thing I’ve learned, heart means everything”. That’s a line from our newest song called IRON HEART ARMY. No matter what you are going through, you are not alone, even though in this life sometimes you can feel so isolated and neck deep in crap, Its what’s inside that means everything. Nowhere else besides this scene is there such friendship and potential to be a revolutionary force. Be there for you friends, gather the strength to make it through another day, and change what you can in this world for the better while your heart is still beating.

Q: Anything you want to add, or random thoughts, or anything?

A: Be sure to check out the new EP it will drop in August and we’ll have the whole thing on our page and for sale at all our shows, and keep an eye out for us on the road, cause we promise, one day we will make it through your town. Please check us out on diefighting.com and shout outs to “Big Wave” Dave Estrin for all his help along the way so far, and all the guys in God Fearing Youth.

Much Love