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If
you're looking for a consistantly good hardcore band,
look no further than Gorilla Biscuits. While they unfortunately
disbanded after only one EP and this CD, these few mementos
of their existance show us what a hardcore band can
strive for. GB had positive lyrics, heavy and fast music,
and notable talent. Along with a few other bands from
their native New York, Gorilla Biscuits is credited
for starting a new hardcore movement, similar to what
Minor Threat did in the early 80's.
Not
only a stright-edge band, GB made it a point to make
all of their songs positive statements for change. This
was one of the things that got them recognition for
starting a movement, as the earlier hardcore bands that
had mostly died out were also incredibly violent. It's
clear the band was ready for a change, though they were
a bit too late anyway. Hardcore is an extremely one-dimensional
genre, so the impact they made was less of that of bands
like Black Flag and others.
The
CD starts off with "New Direction", which
is a great song with a title that clearly states GB's
focus. The listener will immediately notice what a great
voice Civ has; it fits perfectly with the heavy melodies
of the band's dual guitarists. "Things We Say"
is a surprising melodic interlude that still hits extremely
hard and is one of my personal favorites. As the CD
progresses it becomes apparent that the band rarely
slows down. In fact, the only track they let up on is
"Start Today", which even has a short harmonica
part for some reason. The last two tracks are incredibly
fast and brutal; a fitting ending to the band's career.
If
you're looking for a new hardcore band in the vein of
Minor Threat, definitely check out the Gorilla Biscuits.
I haven't heard their EP but it's probably equally as
good as this CD. It's a shame that this band wasn't
around longer, but I think they did what they needed
to do and that's all that matters. These fourteen tracks
are a testament to truly great American punk music.
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