Sometimes called Jesus Christ Hardcore (JCHC), Christcore, or just Christian Punk, there are bands playing every subgenre -- alternative, emocore, hardcore, metal, oi!, ska, straight-edge and others. For some bands, every syllable and note is dedicated religious expression. For other bands, Christian themes are interwoven within tales of every day life, cars, relationships, sports and the opposite sex. They’re both included. This is not intended to be a referendum on religious thought, or what is or what isn't punk. To borrow an idea from The Crucified, this web site is not about being a Christian punk. It's just about being a Christian, full stop, who just happens to like the punk rock style of music.
This site provides information about bands, and comparisons to the sound of secular bands so that people can get some feeling for the music. For example, if you like the sound of Black Flag or GBH, you may not care as much for the music of Relient K. I don’t claim to have heard everything available, and my taste runs to the melodic side. My favorites can be seen in the lists on the right. I've limited each list to one album per band (otherwise lots of MxPx). Below you can find information about many different bands. Fortunately for us, there are more and more bands every day! If you know a band that should be added, please let me know. I have also not listed the bands signed to Thumper Punk Records (www.thumperpunkrecords.com) to my “favorites” list. But, I can assure you that they are all-time classics worth of mention, to which I am devoting a substantial amount of my free time without pay.
Highly recommended albums get a star (*). So, here goes, alphabetically:
Ace Troubleshooter - (http://www.myspace.com/acetroubleshooter) Melodic, emo and pop punk from Minneapolis that played between 1996 and 2005. Their sound is similar to the lighter songs from Bowling for Soup and Blink 182. Ace Troubleshooter disbanded in 2005 when lead singer John Warne left to play bass for Relient K (another musical influence), a band with which they had toured for a number of years.
1996: Back in the Shootin’ Match – Independent
1999: Don’t Stop a Rockin’ – Independent
2000: Ace Troubleshooter – BEC
2002: The Madness of the Crowds – Tooth & Nail
2005: It’s Never Enough – Tooth & Nail
All At Risk (http://www.myspace.com/allatrisk) Energetic, edgy pop punk band from Denver that released it's self-titled album digitally in 2010. Sound similar to Blink-182 and the Descendents. Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.allatrisk.com.
2010: All At Risk (self released)
Altar Boys (http://www.altarboys.com) - One of the first Christian punk bands (along with Undercover) to emerge in the early 1980s from southern California. At the time, their sound was revolutionary in that it broke from mellow traditional Christian rock. In many respects, these guys were the first out of the foxhole in terms of melding Christian beliefs with a punk rock sound. They became part of the Calvary Chapel Christian punk and alternative music scene in Orange County, which also included the bands The Choir, Crumbächer, Undercover and 4-4-1. Both angry at the sins of the world and adamantly steadfast in their dedication to Jesus, their live shows were a truly evangelical experience. Their rebellious and outspoken nature brought lots of slings and arrows from the punk community, as well as a total misunderstanding on the part of many in the religious establishment. “Gut Level Music” and “Against the Grain” were their best albums. The band sounds a bit like the Clash, Generation X/early Billy Idol, Big Country and early U2, so by current standards some of their music is light, mid-80s sounding pop. But, it was fresh at the time, and there is no doubting their historical significance in blazing a trail for other bands or the number of hearts they touched along the way. The band includes Mike Stand (vocals, songwriting, and guitar), Jeff Crandall (drums), Steve Pannier (guitars), Mark Robertson (bass), and Ric Alba. Information about Mike Stand’s current projects can be found at http://mikestand.com.
This clip shows them how I remember them. Revolutionary at the time, and still pretty rockin' now. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U09qMAmIuCE
1984: Altar Boys, Broken Records
1985: When You're A Rebel, Alarma Records
1986: Gut Level Music, Alarma Records
1987: Against the Grain, Alarma Records
1989: Forever Mercy, Alarma Records
1990: The Collection, Alarma Records
2000: Live At Cornerstone, M8 Distribution
2000: Mercy Thoughts, M8 Distribution
Anti-Hell Society - (http://www.myspace.com/antihellsociety) English style, old-school pub punk from three piece band from State College, Pennsylvania. Musical influences are The Exploited, Crass, and English Dogs. Hardcore for Jesus lyrics sung over Oi! beats.
2002: Anti-Hell Society (DIY, to be re-released by Despised Youth Records in 2010)
Back To The Garden (http://www.myspace.com/bttgarden) - Mid-90s post-hardcore sound from newly formed band that includes Josh from xLooking Forwardx on guitar and vocals. Sound is similar to Helmet (Betty) and Quicksand, with a pinch of Ozzy. Band is currently recording its first album.
Ballydowse (http://www.ballydowse.net) - Celtic punk band from Chicago, Illinois, which disbanded in 2003. Fabulous mix of punk, violins, and bagpipes, similar to the Pogues and the Dropkick Murphys. Religiously and politically active, the bands lyrics rail against the American right wing, capitalism and foreign politics. Includes members of the Jesus People USA group, as well as the band Crashdog.
1998: The Land, the Bread, and the People (Grrr Records)
2000: Out of the Fertile Crescent (Diamante Music Group)
Barmy Army (http://www.myspace.com/barmyarmypunkdestruxio) - Old school hardcore punk and thrash from this circle-the-pit band from Argentina. Lyrics screeched in Spanish. Sounds like Corrosion of Conformity and DRI.
The Blamed (http://www.theblamed.com) - Punk, hardcore and experimental band from Illinois. Their “Forever” album blasts hardcore and punk tunes with snarled vocals and lots of hammer. This album sounds like The Cromags and Roger Miret and the Disasters in a good way. Their "...Again" album is darker, more brooding hardcore than the first with metal influences and overly complex songs. Their third album “Isolated Incident” is very different with jerky, pulsing, syncopated rhythm and beats, with dueling vocals similar to Joe Lally and Ian Mackaye. Slightly avant-garde, the "Isolated Incident" album reminds of Fugazi (Steady Diet era), Pavement, Wire (Pink Flag era) and early Gang of Four (Entertainment album). I heard "Isolated Incident" first and got turned off, and then later heard "Forever" and "...Again" which are totally different. You can hear samples of their music on the Grrr Records web site. http://www.grrrrecords.com/store/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=60 More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Blamed.
1994: 21 (Tooth & Nail Records)
1995: Frail (Tooth & Nail Records)
1998: ... Again (Grrr Records)
1999: Forever (Grr Records)
2000: 7" (Burnt Toast Vinyl)
2000: Germany (Grr Records/Burnt Toast Vinyl)
2001: Isolated Incident (Grr Records)
2001: At This Moment (Computer Club Records)
2002: Give Us Barabbas (Tooth & Nail Records)
2002: The Blamed / Noisetoys Split EP
Blaster the Rocket Man (http://www.myspace.com/blastertherocketman) Fast paced theme based punk rock from Evansville, Indiana, which played during the mid 1990s. Lots of cool sci-fi references with a bit of monsters, vampires and voodoo for good measure. Sounds like the Dickies or Toy Dolls, crossed with the Misfits. Perhaps a punk version of Man or Astro-man with costumes and stage theatrics. More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blaster_the_Rocket_Man and http://www.boottohead.com/artist_btrm.html.
1995: Disasteroid (Boot to Head Records)
1997: Succulent Space Food for Teething Vampires (Boot to Head)
1999: The Monster Who Ate Jesus (Jackson Rubio)
2004: The Anatomy of a Monster (Boot to Head Records)
Blood and Water (http://www.myspace.com/bw) - Enjoyable, bouncy ska and pop from NorCal band. Professional, slick website and sound.
2010: In Character (Eden Records)
Calibretto 13 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calibretto_13) - Acoustic and folk influenced punk sound with unique vocals. "Adventures in Tokyo" sounds like the Violent Femmes.
1998: Sibling Rivalry – Split release with No More Droids on RMC Records
2000: Enter the Danger Brigade – Tooth and Nail Records
2001: From the Secret Files of the Danger Brigade (EP) – Tooth and Nail Records
2002: Adventures in Tokyo – Tooth and Nail Records
2003: Dead By Dawn (EP) – Standard Recording Company
2004: All Of These Things Do Not Belong - Split release with Mercury Radio Theater on Standard Recording Company
2005: In The Dark - Standard Recording Company
Call To Glory (http://www.myspace.com/calltogloryband) - Huntington Beach punk rock band playing bluesy, low-riding, earnest punk rock in the style of Social Distortion, Tiger Army, Face to Face, and the Rekoning. Band plays heartfelt music dedicated to Christ, and is active in the OC's Home Church (www.sanctuaryhb.com). The video for "Trinity" on their MySpace page blew me away. Their music can also be seen in connection with the reality show The Uprising (http://www.steelroots.com/theuprising), which documents the ministry of three professional skateboarders. Their album "The Truth, The Blood, The Glory" is a "must get" and is available through Fundemental Distribution, on www.cdbaby.com or itunes. The band perfectly states: "greasy rock-n-roll for Jesus."
2008: The Truth, The Blood, The Glory (Pigman (Bright Studios) *
See also www.Call2Glory.com.
Call to Preserve (http://www.myspace.com/calltopreserve) Straight edge hardcore band out of central Florida that is signed to Tooth & Nail records. Driving hardcore with heavy guitar hooks (without metal wanking or mindless guitar solos), pounding aggressive drums, and thoughtful, creative lyrics with vocal range that makes screamo enjoyable and never stale. The drumming is especially remarkable on "From Isolation", as it both pushes and pulls the songs forward without overpowering with what sounds like a three-handed attack. Lyrically they challenge and reward with earnest yet poetic refrains about the struggle of Christianity. "From Isolation" is an all-time classic, and is the album that I've always wanted Henry Rollins to make (instead of his heavy yet hip-hop influenced rhythm section). Fans of Madball (with whom they are touring in 2010), Cromags, and Roger Miret and the Disasters will love this. "Unsinkable" has a more metal sound. Fans of non-hardcore punk will also love this due to the passion, discipline and quality song writing. From Isolation is essential.
2006: Unsinkable
2008: From Isolation (Facedown Records) *
The latest information about the band can be found on their blog: http://www.calltopreserve.blogspot.com/
Children 18:3 (http://www.children183.com) - Awesome, amazing three piece pop punk and alternative band from Morris, Minnesota that includes siblings David, Lee Marie and Seth Hostetter. Crazy combination of Rancid, Good Charlotte and the B-52s, with a touch of goth played in a power pop/Ramones 1-2-3-4 style. The band works due to the excellent songwriting, interplay of male and female vocals and driving beats. Highly recommended (based solely on their self-titled release). More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/children183 and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children_18:3 and http://www.toothandnail.com/children183/ecard (to see their All My Balloons video. The band is currently in studio working on their next release.
2004: Places I Don't Want to Go (Self Released)
2006: Songs of Desperation (Self Released)
2008: Children 18:3 (Tooth & Nail) *
2010: Rains a Comin (Tooth & Nail)
Children of the Consuming Fire (http://www.myspace.com/childrenoftheconsumingfire) - Mix of punk, metal, funk and new wave from this Corona, California band. More information about the band can be found at http://www.childrenoftheconsumingfire.com.
The Choir (http://www.thechoir.net) Early alternative and pop Christian band from Orange County, California. Their musical career began in the early 1980s playing alternative, new wave and new romantic sounds, and has evolved with the times with a more pop sound. Originally known as the "Youth Choir", they changed the name around 1986. They became part of the Calvary Chapel Christian punk and alternative music scene in Orange County, which also included the bands The Choir, Crumbächer, Altar Boys and 4-4-1. They are currently in the studio recording for a new album to be released in 2010. Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.tvot.ca/vis/index3.html (fan page) and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Choir.
1985: Voices in Shadows
1986: Diamonds and Rain
1986: Shades of Gray
1988: Chase the Kangaroo
1989: Wide-Eyed Wonder
1990: Circle Slide
1993: Kissers and Killers
1994: Speckled Bird
1996: Free Flying Soul
1997: Let It Fly
2000: Flap Your Wings
2000: Live at Cornerstone 2000: Plugged
2000: Live at Cornerstone 2000: Unplugged
2005: O How the Mighty Have Fallen
Come & Conquer ( Awesome old school hardcore punk band (not screamo) from Bowling Green, Kentucky. Highly recommended for sheer strength and umph. Fans of Agnostic Front, Roger Miret and the Disasters, Warzone and New York hardcore will love this. Free 5 song CD can be downloaded from http://www.indievisionmusic.com/2010/08/30/free-come-conquer-ep/.
The Cootees (http://www.myspace.com/thecootees) Pop punk band that was a side project for Mike Herrera and Tom Wisniewski of MxPx. More information can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Cootees.
1997: Let's Play House (Tooth and Nail)
Craig's Brother (http://www.craigsbrother.com) Founded in 1995 by mostly San Lorenzo Valley High School (Felton, California, which is very close to where T.P. lives) classmates. The "Craig's Brother" name was the nickname of one band member, who was the younger brother of a popular student. The band didn't have a name for their first show, so they used Craig's Brother and the name stuck. On their highly recommended "Homecoming", the band plays fast-tempo punk with infectious chops and hooks. Songs have harmonies and an Epitaph/Pennywise/Bad Religion feel, with pogo-inspiring, sing-along punk rock with catchy vocals and great guitar work. Highly recommended. On "Lost At Sea", the band plays light rock and power pop mid-tempo songs with harmonies and balads. Their second album was a significant change in sound from Homecoming. Their new album was recorded in March 2009.
1996: Demo tape
1997: Keepin' It Real CD
1998: Homecoming *
2000: Lost At Sea, Tooth and Nail Records
2004: E.P.idemic, Takeover Records,
More information about this band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig%27s_brother, http://www.purevolume.com/craigsbrother, and www.myspace.com/craigsbrother.
Crashdog (http://www.busker-kibbutznik.org/crashdog/main.html). Illinois based punk and hardcore band that melds left-leaning political and socially aware lyrics sung in a provocative manner. Urgent, angry, committed to Christ, with occasional Celtic sounds including bagpipes. The band played primarily during the 1990s, and members are involved with Grrr Records, 2 Jake Records, Jesus People USA, and Ballydowse. Hardcore music changed over the years (but with consistently low-budget production) reminiscent of The Bruisers, Minor Threat, and Dropkick Murphys (Boys on the Dock era). My review is based solely on their “8 Years to Nowhere,” which their website describes as a “best of sort of thing.” I don't exactly get them, but everyone else seems to think they're great.
1990: Hard Knocks for Hard Heads (Grrr records/Rrrough)
1990: Humane Society (Grrr recordS/Word Entertainment)
1993: The Pursuit of Happiness (Grrr recordS/Word Entertainment)
1994: Mud Angels (Grrr recordS/R.E.X. Music)
1995: Cashists Fascists and Other Fungus (Grrr recordS/R.E.X. Music)
1997: Outer Crust (2 Jake Records/Grrr records)
1998: 8 Years to Nowhere (Grrr records)
2002: Live at Cornerstone 2002 (authorized indie CDR)
A video of their Cornerstone appearance can be seen at: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3693258109279579678
The Crucified (http://www.crucifyd.com/) - Speed metal, thrash band from Fresno, California, that played between 1984 and 1993. Mosh pit music similar to Dirty Rotten Imbeciles (DRI), Slayer, and early Pantera but without the professional production or groove sounds. Not overly diverse or subtle in their sound, but that isn’t really the point with these guys. Hardcore music for hardcore Christians. This is what the term “crossover” meant back in the late 80s.
See these links to one of their songs http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JL4y43C6nGM&feature=related, and a good live clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhsejyJ_gJU.
1985: Take up Your Cross (cassette demo)
1986: Nailed (cassette demo)
1989: Live at the New Order (cassette demo)
1989: The Crucified, Narrowpath Records
1991: The Pillars of Humanity, Ocean Entertainment *
1992: Nailed/Take up Your Cross, Tooth & Nail Records
The Deal (http://www.myspace.com/thedeal) - Excellent hardcore punk music from the recently reunited Chino, California band. Straightforward American Oi! music with circle-the-pack Christian lyrics. Sounds similar to Agnostic Front, AntiHeroes, Discipline and fast English skinhead sounds. Brilliant!
2004: Cutthroat *
Debtor (http://www.myspace.com/debtorpa) - Spirit-filled hardcore from this Philadelphia area band. Musically intense and spiritually hard hitting, the singing is both straightforward and screamo. Song structures are complex. They list StrongArm and Verse as musical reference points. More information about the band can be found at: http://debtorpa.blogspot.com/
Dogwood (http://www.myspace.com/dogwood). Awesome punk pioneers from the San Diego, California area began playing in the early 1990s. Hard charging melodic music that sounds like the Offspring, NOFX, Bad Religion and Pennywise. Their name was taken from the legend that the cross upon which Christ was crucified was made of dogwood. Richard Anderson, All Music Guide, perfectly describes their album Matt Aragon as “successful integration of multiple and seemingly mutually exclusive influences: they play emo chord progressions at hardcore punk tempos and scream some of the most explicitly Christian lyrics over them that have ever been heard from a Tooth & Nail band. It's a thrilling ride…” Their “Building a Better Me” album reaches classic status with both sing-along melodies and pogo-along riffs, and is a favorite of both older punks and younger skaters alike.
A link to their “Building a Better Me” video is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0fvISSsxKE , and their “Good Times” song http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6vDO8Bv2io&feature=related. Great punk rock by any standard and in any decade.
1996: Good Ol' Daze (Rescue Records)
1997: Through Thick & Thin (Rescue Records)
1998: Dogwood (Self-released)
1999: More Than Conquerors (Tooth & Nail Records)
2000: Building a Better Me (Tooth & Nail Records) *
2001: This is Not a New Album (Facedown Records 2001) (re-issue of the self-titled album)
2001: Matt Aragon (Tooth & Nail Records) *
2001: Live at Chain Reaction (Roadside Records)
2003: Seismic (Tooth & Nail Records)
2004: Reverse, Then Forward Again (Tooth & Nail Records)
Detholtz! (http://www.detholz.com). Chicago based new wave band. Devo is often sited as an influence, but personally I didn’t get it. Detholz! "is pronounced as "Death Holes." More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detholz and http://www.myspace.com/thedetholz and http://detholz.wordpress.com and http://www.spectacula.net/monolith/index.cfm.
Everyone Disappear (http://www.myspace.com/edlovesyou) Quirky, pop core from this currently active Washington band, founded a by husband and wife duo.
Everyday Sunday (http://www.everydaysunday.com) Alternative band that began in 1997 as the house band for the Cypress Wesleyan Church youth group in Columbus, Ohio. Infectious, clever, alternative pop music with just barely enough punch to make this list. Not punk by a long shot, but good clean bop-up-and-down fun on “Wake Up! Wake Up!” despite their atrocious Friends-sitcom-wannabe haircuts on the album cover. More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/everydaysunday.
Links to two of their songs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl5QpEuPY3g&feature=related and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEL1EAl9kg8&feature=PlayList&p=AD0B39FF6AE0616E&playnext=1&index=43
2001: Sleeper (independent )
2002: Stand Up (Flicker Records)
2004: Anthems for the Imperfect (Flicker Records)
2007: Wake Up! Wake Up! (Inpop Records)
False Idle (www.falseidlepunk.com) Solo project from Sef Idle, the former lead of recently defunct Christian punk legends UniSEF. Brilliant, old-school punk rock versions of traditional Christian hymns and more. Musically raw but with listenable melodies, blending the best of Rancid’s edginess and the pace of Descendents/Social Distortion. Christmas 2010 includes a cover of “Hark the Herald Angels” on a compilation released by Rottweiler Records.
2010: Hymns of Punk Rock Praise (Thumper Punk Records)
More information can be found at http://www.myspace.com/falseidlepunk and at www.thumperpunkrecords.com
Fanmail (http://www.toothandnail.com/artists/106/Fanmail/bio/) Pop punk band formed in 1998 in Orange County, California, including members from 90-lb Wuss, the Cootees, Plankeye, Slick Shoes, Value Pac and Rainy Days. Positive, melodic and light punk music and lyrics.
1999: Here Comes Fanmail (Tooth & Nail)
1999: Latest Craze (Tooth & Nail)
2000: Fanmail 2000 (Tooth & Nail)
Fight to Die - (http://www.myspace.com/fighttodie) Hardcore and thrash street band from Jackson, Mississippi, currently signed to the Handmade Overkill label. Fast and heavy music. Sound similar to AntiFlag, The Exploited, and early Rancid.
Fight Before Surrender (or FBS) - (www.fightbeforesurrender.com) Excellent English street punk sound from San Antonio, Texas band. FBS sounds similar to The Exploited, Cock Sparrer and GBH. Snarled vocals, pounding drums, mohawks, and attitude. Awesome. The band is touring throughout 2009.
2005: They Hate You
2007: Fight Before Surrender (Handmade Overkill Records) *
More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/fbs.
Fire Engine Red - (www.fireenginered.org) Straightforward punk and postpunk/folk from this band that formed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1989, and relocated to Hollywood in 1992. Fronted by Tim and Donna Ellis, their secular lyrics changed to passionate sharing of the Gospel after they became Christians. Sound is similar to X (especially some of the vocal interplay between Exene and John Doe), and early 80-s Los Angeles band The Brat. I love their song "Christian Band", which (for me) sums up the whole Thumper Punk experience. More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/fireengineredrock and at http://www.mypraize.com/index.php?option=com_comprofiler&task=userProfile&user=24457
2000: Change (Self released) *
2008: 1530 (Saved by Radio)
Flatfoot 56 - (www.flatfoot56.com) Brilliant Chicago-based Celtic Punk outfit that plays with the perfect mix of old school punk and celtic influences. Loud rockin' music with hard but understandable lyrics, bagpipes, mandolin and umph. This is what Flogging Molly should sound like (and the Dropkick Murphys sometimes do).
More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/flatfoot56 and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flatfoot_56. I can't wait to see them at Cornerstone 09 in Monterey.
2002: Rumble of 56
2003: Waves of War
2004: Knuckles Up *
2005: Knuckles Up (re-release)
2007: Jungle of the Midwest Sea
2010: Black Thorn *
Free For All - (http://www.myspace.com/freeforalluk) Mid-tempo punk, rock and ska from a Sheffield, Northeast, United Kingdom based band that features the publisher of www.christianpunks.co.uk. The music has a stripped-down sound similar to the early 1980s songs from the Buzzcocks, the Jam, and early Joe Jackson (skinny tie, spiked hair "I'm the Man" era). Good song writing, simple hooks, and an enjoyable english accent on vocals.
2009: End of the World (self released)
Ghoti Hook - (http://www.ghotihook.com) Pop punk from Fairfax, Virginia that played between 1991 and 2002. Early music was fun, spirited punk and later became more pop sounding, with influences of the Dickies, Blink-182 and All. Band plans reunion show in June 2009. Yahoo music has 100+ tracks for listening. http://new.music.yahoo.com/ghoti-hook/tracks/
1994: No Date (EP) (Self-released)
1995: Boca Grande (EP) (Self-released)
1996: Sumo Surprise (Tooth and Nail Records)
1997: Banana Man (Tooth and Nail Records)
1998: Songs We Didn't Write (cover album) (Tooth and Nail Records)
2000: Two Years to Never (Tooth and Nail Records)
2002: Ep (Velvet Blue Music)
2002: Retrospective (Tooth & Nail Records)
2003: Rest in Peace (live album) (Tooth and Nail Records)
More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghoti_Hook and http://www.myspace.com/ghotihookmusic.
God So Loved the World (http://www.myspace.com/godsolovedtheworld) Old-school hardcore punk from Australia that formed in 2005. Highly recommended based on the four songs on their MySpace page.
S/T Demo 2005, Two Bucks
S/T EP 2006, Resist Records
S/T 10” 2006, Resist Records
Good Religion (http://www.myspace.com/goodreligion) Skate punk from this Buffalo, New York band that began as the worship team at South Buffalo Assemblies of God church around 2005. Straight forward, three-chord punk with hooks in the style of NOFX, Pennywise and early Blink-182. The band has also played secular shows under the name Cheektavegas.
Grave Robber (http://www.myspace.com/graverobberpunk) Goth, punk, metal and rockabilly melded in a Misfits meets Alice Cooper sort of way. Fort Wayne, Indiana band currently touring to support their latest release "Inner Sanctum". Shock-rock in style, with masks, costumes, fake blood, zombies, vampires and other images that appear anything but Christian. However, the band’s name references Jesus’ return as the true “grave robber”, and their highly symbolic messaging focuses on Christ from, shall we say, the bottom up. I had to read some of their lyrics and a few articles on the band before I was fully convinced. But, what did not take much convincing was the quality of songwriting and the musicianship, along with a healthy dose of “whoah-oh” vocals. Horror rock that the Misfits would both love and hate. Recommended (sort of).
Be Afraid CD
Inner Sanctum CD
The Shovel is Family Digital Download
Love Hurts – 7 inch
Great Day (http://www.myspace.com/greatday) - Mid tempo ska and pop from this Miami, Florida based band. Sound similar to OC Supertones and Five Iron Frenzy.
Hangnail - Founded to participate in a Wisconsin junior high school talent competition in 1999. Earnest medium-tempo pop punk and emocore with catchy light chops and hooks. Some songs have harmonies and an Epitaph feel. Positive, introspective lyrics. Sounds similar to Dag Nasty, Face to Face and Mr. T Experience, with some of the uptempo songs reminding of Pennywise. The band released three albums on Tooth and Nail records in the 90s. My review is based on their self-titled album. More information can be found at http://www.cmusicweb.com/features/hangnail/index.shtml.
2000: Hangnail
2001: Facing Changes
2003: Transparent
The Hanover Saints - (http://www.thehanoversaints.com) Old school street punk and hardcore from this Sacramento, California band that was founded in 2001. Their website says: " Inspired by 70's and 80's punk, Hanover Saints goal is to play music with heart, soul and conviction. Their songs cover a wide variety of topics including family, community, friendship, loyalty, faith, human rights, working class ethics, and solidarity. ... The stage is not only ours but yours in the true spirit of punk rock." I'm in favor of any band that invites you up onto the stage! Their sound reminds of the Business and Discipline, with hard charging but positive lyrics. Highly recommended. The band reformed in 2010. More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/hanoversaints.
2001: Split EP with Shop 11 Phoenix (Revolution Ink Records)
2002: Truth Rings Out (Facedown Records)
2003: Split EP with Whiskey Rebels (Revolution Ink Records) * - the four HS songs are brilliant
2004: Blood, Guts and Glory (Strike First Records) *
2005: Murdertown (GMM Records) *
Hawk Nelson - (http://www.hawknelson.com) Major label pop rock band from Ontario, Canada, with occasional whispers of punk influences. Crisp, melodic fun. See also http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawk_Nelson for band and album information.
Headnoise - (http://www.grrrrecords.com/artist.cfm?ID=9) Punk rock band from southern California, founded in 1994 by husband and wife team Robert and Edie Goodwin (bass and vocals) and Sid Duffour (guitar). One of the most pure expressions of JCHC that you’ll find. I am completely blown away by their passion and fury both musically and vocally. Stylistically a bit like No Control, SU-2000 and with a bit of old school English punk sound like the 4-Skins or Exploited. Their music drives forward relentlessly with hooks and speed changes to keep you coming back for more. Vocals are sung, screamed and spewed by the fabulous Edie Goodwin, who sounds like nobody else (perhaps like a female Jello Biafra, Penelope Houston of Avengers, or Exene on the song “Johnny Hit and Run Pauline”). The lyrics are provocatively Christian, and cover a range of personal and religious themes in an in-your-face manner. If this web site had an anthem, it would be their song “No Compromise” from their album of the same name. "For Now We Know, Part 1" doesn't quite have the songwriting quality as "No Compromise", but is also good. Originally from Orange County, they moved to Illinois in 2000, to join Jesus People USA and be closer to their record label Grrr Records. Headnoise is a must for anyone interested in Christian punk rock. More information can be found on their MySpace page. http://www.myspace.com/headnoise
2000: First EP
2001: No Compromise *
2002: Remix CD
2003: 99 and Wanting
2005: For Now We Know, Part 1
Hit the Deck (http://www.myspace.com/xhitthedeckx) - Early-80s hardcore punk sound with a Washington D.C./Dischord feel from this Ventura, California band that played between 2002 and 2007. Sound is heavily influenced by Minor Threat, and their highly recommended “Look Alive” album fits right in between Out of Step and MT. Some songs also have a Youth Crew/NYC hardcore feel. Creative straight-edge and Christian themed lyrics. I’m currently looking for “Walking Backwards.”
2004: Look Alive (Strike First Records) *
2007: Walking Backwards (Cold Vomit Records)
The Huntingtons (http://www.myspace.com/huntingtons). Awesome 1-2-3-4 punk band from Baltimore, Maryland which formed in 1993-1994 time frame and played until 2005. Comprised of Cliff Powell (aka Cliffy Huntington), Mike Holt (aka Mikey Huntington) and Mike Pierce (aka Mikee Huntington), the band was heavily influenced by the Ramones. The band mixed Ramones covers with original songs played in their style, and performed as Joey Ramone's back-up band at two shows at CBGB's. If you like the Ramones or the Queers, these guys will be right up your alley. Over their long career, their music (like the Ramones) covered various degrees of punk. Their "High School Rock" and "Rock N Roll Habits for the New Wave" albums are awesome. The "File Under Ramones" album is a straight cover album with 20 Ramones songs from different periods. There are times when I thought this albums was pure genius, and other when I wondered not just listen to the originals. "Plastic Surgery" includes excellent songwriting and lots of gabba gabba with medium tempo songs with a few high octane blasts similar to "Road to Ruin". Their "Songs in the Key of You" album is lighter music with punk chord progressions. I'm late to the party with these guys, but I'm there now. More than a cover or tribute band, the Huntingtons blazed a trail of their own with pop punk hooks and blasting beats. The band reunited in 2009 to record "Punk Sounds" to help raise money to cover medical expenses for the wife of long-time drummer Mikee Huntington. Highly recommended. More information about the band can be found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Huntingtons and at: http://www.sweetslyrics.com/bio-The%20Huntingtons.html
1996: Sweet Sixteen
1996: Rocket To Ramonia
1997: The Only One
1997: Fun And Games
1998: High School Rock *
1999: All The Stuff (And More)-Vol 1
1999: Live: The Good, The Bad And The Ugly
1999: File Under Ramones
1999: Get Lost
2000: Plastic Surgery *
2000: Split
2001: Rock 'N' Roll Habits For The New Wave *
2001: Big Hits and Nasty Cuts
2001: Songs in the Key of You
2003: The Soothing Sounds Of...
2003: The Huntingtons
2005: Growing Up Is No Fun: The Standards '95-'05
2005: Pull the Plug
2009: Punk Sounds *
The Insyderz - (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Insyderz). Mid-tempo ska band from Detroit, Michigan, which played between 1996 and 2005. Band played original songs and ska-infused covers of contemporary Christian music on their two “Skalleluia” albums. Equal parts Moonstomp/Oi! punk and 2nd wave ska on their “Fight of My Life” album, which is highly recommended. Vocals are coarse and throaty but with adequate range, and without growing boring. Well done horn arrangements give band its signature Moonstomp sound. Vocals like the Instigators but with better, horns like early UB40 or a mid-tempo Bad Manners or Skankin’ Pickle, and overall sound like the ska-era songs of The Clash.
A link to their Jigsaw video is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qC5hRt0bcI&feature=related.
1997: Motor City Ska
1998: Skalleluia! *
1998: Paradise CD Single
1998: Fight of My Life *
1999: Skalleluia Too!
2001: The Greatest & The Rarest
2003: Soundtrack to a Revolution
The Kings Kids - (http://www.myspace.com/thekingskids) Old-school style streetcore punk from Salinas, California based group that formed in 2004. Raw and unvarnished. Influences include Rancid, Street Dogs and early Clash. Says Interpunk Records: "message of truth, redemption and faith that invoke the punk spirit of '77." Plus, Lupe seems like a good guy. See also www.thekingskids.com.
2008: Urgency (Interpunk Records http://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=9273&)
Kutless - (http://www.kutless.com) Major label, hard rock band from Portland, Oregon, formed in 2000. Hard charging with metal overtones and some slower rock ballads. Kutless has had success with both Christian and secular audiences through its semi-regular rotation on MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball. These guys are popular because their records are great, but they are not a punk band. Similar in sound to Creed and Pantera, but lots of ballads and the albums get lighter over time. More information about the band can be found on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kutless), My Space (http://www.myspace.com/kutless), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kutless/7077500831) and on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/kutlessrock?ob=4).
2002: Kutless, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
2004: Sea of Faces, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
2005: Strong Tower, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
2006: Hearts of the Innocent, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
2006: Live from Portland, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
2008: To Know That You’re Alive, BEC Recordings and Tooth & Nail Records
The Lead (http://www.myspace.com/thelead) - Early 1980s hardcore punk band from Florida. Their sound progressed over the years from hardcore punk to crossover thrash. “Burn this Record” album sounds like Septic Death, Osgood Slaughter and early Dirty Rotten Imbeciles (DRI).
1985: The Lead, Three Equals One
1986: Return Fire, Three Equals One
1986: Automoloch, Three Equals One
1987: The Past Behind, Three Equals One
1988: The Past Behind (new recording) R.E.X. Music
1989: Burn This Record, R.E.X. Music
2006: Hardcore For Jesus, Retroactive Records
Lifesavers (Lifesavers Underground or LSU) Alternative band from Orange County, California, fronted by the multi-talented Michael Knott (http://www.michaelknott.com). The band had a huge influence and following among early fans of Christian alternative/punk in southern California. Historically important band was one of the first along, with Altar Boys and Underground, to establish a meaningful fan following in that area. Music changed significantly as Michael Knott dabbled in punk, goth, alternative, pop and folk sounds. The early albums are similar in sound to Jim Carroll, Joe Jackson (Look Sharp and I’m the Man era), and that good early 80s spiked-hair skinny-tie punk. Their sound turned dark and brooding on their highly controversial “Shaded Pain” album, which was reminiscent of the Cult, Nick Cave and perhaps even a weird combination of INXS and the Misfits with a synthesizer drum beat. Albums continued that way through their “Poplife” album which has a post-punk feel to it. Some of their albums are great, others not so. I recommend “Huntington Beach” and “Poplife” but not anything from “Shaded Pain” through “Grace Shaker” as I don't care for the styles even though I kept buying their albums (why did every OC punk band in the late 80s go through a ridiculous goth period?). Staying with it did pay off with “Huntington Beach” which is great. I haven't heard the others so I offer no opinions there given their regularly changing sound.
Clip shows their early 1980s new wave sound. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHVoWrmOavY&feature=related. This clip shows a different sound 10 years later. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtLtWHqjJrw&feature=related
1981: Us Kids (MRC)(Re-released on M8 Records in 2000, with the bonus album "My Life" added on)
1983: Dream Life (Refuge)
1986: A Kiss of Life (Frontline)
1987: Shaded Pain (Frontline Records)
1989: Wakin' Up The Dead (Blonde Vinyl)
1991: This Is The Healing (Blonde Vinyl)
1991: Poplife (Blonde Vinyl)
1992: The Grape Prophet (Blonde Vinyl)
1993: Cash In Chaos: World Tour (Siren Records)
1994: Grace Shaker (Alarma Records)
1995: Huntington Beach (Brainstorm Artists, Intl)
1995: Bring It Down Now (Gray Dot)
1998: Dogfish Jones (Light)
1998: Definitive Collection (KMG)
2000: Live At Cornerstone '91 and '93, Volumes 1 and 2
The Living Dead (http://www.myspace.com/dirtfootxle) - Straightforward youthful punk rock from Lake Elsinore, California band that includes a song named "Circle Pits in Heaven". Won't that be great! Band includes members from Skamikaze, although the sound is totally different.
Lust Control (http://www.lustcontrol.com) - Old school punk band from Pflugerville, Texas, that focuses on glorifying God through abstinence and sexual purity. Their lyrics attack taboo subject matter with humor and religious fury. Topics covered include abstinence, masturbation, pornography, sex education, and how they believe Christians should deal with each. While the band was formed as a joke, complete with wrestling and ski masks to preserve anonymity, they have a legitimate ministry (although perhaps not for everbody) and at least one member of the band is a youth pastor. The band received the title of "The Worst Christian Band of the Decade" for the 1990s from Hard Music magazine, a Christian music publication. Their website claims they sound like Fear, Flipper and The Sex Pistols, which seems a fair comparison (Flipper anyway). The lyrics in their song "Leave Amy Alone" made me laugh, which I think is their point.
1988: This Is A Condom Nation (Independent, cassette only)
1989: Dancing Naked (Independent, cassette only)
1991: Fun, Fun Feeling (Blonde Vinyl)
1992: We Are Not Ashamed (Enclave)
1994: Feminazi
2000: The Worst Of...(M8 Records)
2006: We Are Not Ashamed: Getting It Right the Second Time
More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/lustcontrol, http://www.purevolume.com/lustcontrol, and http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Lounge/4892/lust.html.
Makeshift3 (http://www.makeshift3.com) - Melodic punk with metal and crossover influences from Orange County, California. Their sound progressed throughout their four album, 12 year history. "Childproof Bug Bombs" is fastpaced street punk in the style of Minor Threat and Adolescents (first album). "Fuel for Life" has a more even punk sound (less streetpunk, more harmonies) reminiscent of early Pennywise and Blink-182, with crossover guitar sounds like RKL, and very light youthful vocals and arrangements. "Game Day" has a more assertive sound (especially on the vocals) and starts to mix in metal influences. "Flourescent Black" is their most textured album, showing much improved vocal duelings in a range of styles and tempos. Most of the songs remain punk but have a heavier, metal influence on both vocals and guitars that sounds closer to Linkin Park, Creed, and the metal Christian band Devil Wears Prada at times. "Irish Sky" and "Hiyayda Martian 3.0" absolutely rock. Christian lyrics with an assortment of vocal stylings from harmonies to full-on hardcore screaching, sometimes even within the same songs. Inventive and creative. All their music can be heard at http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=341231&content=music&songcount=59&offset=0¤tPage=1, but do support the band and buy the albums if you like them. Eric will send you band info and stickers too.
1996: Childproof Bug Bombs, And How Records
1999: Fuel for Life, Pious Records
2001: Game Day, Micah Records
2008: Fluorescent Black, New School Records *
MxPx (http://www.mxpx.com) - Fantastic American punk band from Bremerton, Washington. MxPx originally stood for Magnified Plaid. Their music has evolved over the years as this band expanded its horizons and improved as musicians. Their web site indicates they are recording their next studio album in January 2009. One of my favorite bands which combine excellent song writing, positive but realistic lyrics, and a hard charging punk beat. Earlier albums have the melodic, vocally harmonized, straight forward, pop punk sounds of Descendents, Mr. T Experience and even a bit of Blink-182. Later albums combine pop punk with heavier sounds of Rise Against (Sire Song era) and Face to Face. Highly recommended, especially “Slowly Going the Way of the Buffalo” (which has an Epitath Records feeling to it) and “Secret Weapon” (which shows influences from their 2007 Warped Tour appearance). The biggest change in their sound comes with their major label release “Before Everything & After,” at which point albums sound less like they were recorded in a basement. To my ear, their best music starts with “Slowing Going the Way of the Buffalo.” At age 18, I would have preferred the earlier more raw, three chord punk sound. Now, I like both but listen to the later albums more because the songwriting has improved without losing its punch. More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mxpx.
See MxPx's "Secret Weapon" video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AX5FNJyPPg, and "Responsibility" video at http://www.last.fm/music/MxPx/+videos/20266773.
1994: Pokinatcha
1995: Teenage Politics *
1996: Life In General *
1998: Slowly Going the Way of the Buffalo *
2000: The Ever Passing Moment *
2003: Before Everything & After
2005: Panic *
2007: Secret Weapon *
2009: Left Coast Punk
Nobody Special (http://www.nobodyspecial.net) Straightforward punk rock from a southern California band founded by Pat Nobody, the younger brother of Undercover’s Joey “Ojo” Taylor. Nobody Special has mid-80s punk sound with a strong in-your-face to the Devil stance. Their sound is a bit like the Replacements during the late 80s. Their first album includes a strange cover of What’s the Buzz from Jesus Christ Superstar, which can be heard on their MySpace page. More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/patnobody.
1986: Nobody Special – Frontline Records
1989: Call It Whatever You Want - Broken Records
The Normans (www.myspace.com/thenormanslv) - Pounding, driving hardcore from Las Vegas, Nevada outfit. Lyrically hardcore committed to their faith, they blast positve energy to spread the word of God. Sound is similar to Sick of It All, Agnostic Front, and Hatebreed (although more punk and less metallic). Check out their interview by the Hardcore Christian blog at http://hxcchristian.com/251/the-normans-las-vegas-christian-hardcore.
O.C. Supertones (or Orange County Supertones) (http://the-oc-supertones.com) - Fantastic Christian ska band from Orange County, California. Sound on the first few albums is somewhere between the Toasters, Untouchables and the ska songs of Sublime. The first three albums “Adventures”, “Strike Back” and “Chase the Sun” are all highly recommended ska albums. The sound on later albums are pop albums, and there is even a bit of rap banter throughout. Starting at Hi-Fi Revival, ska is gone and they sound more like Elvis Costello, REM and similar. They are excellent songwriters, which separates them as an act whether you like the particular style of the album. The band’s lyrics focus on praising God, and their personal relationship with Jesus. Regular chart toppers for Christian music, the band's releases also appeared on several Billboard lists. The band released the majority of its albums on Tooth & Nail before a few independent releases. The Supertones reunited for several music festivals in 2010, and I will be skanking wildly at their Spirit West Coast show in Monterey.
Additional information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OC_Supertones.
1996: Adventures of the O.C. Supertones *
1977: Supertones Strike Back *
1999: Chase the Sun *
2000: Loud and Clear
2002: Live! Volume One
2002: Hi-Fi Revival
2004: Revenge of the O.C. Supertones
2005: Unite
2005: Faith of a Child
2008: The O.C. Supertones: The Ultimate Collection
October Light (http://www.myspace.com/octoberlight) - Fun and energetic ska band from Croatia that formed in 1998. Highly recommended. Christ praising lyrics with a pop punk edge.
2009: Songs We Wrote So Far
2009: Something Special
Officer Negative (http://www.officernegative.com) - Punk band from Ventura, California, that played between 1995 and 2000. The band's "Dead to the World" album is raw, urgent, angry and essential, with a sound like the Circle Jerks (Group Sex) and Black Flag circa 1982. The band coined the phrase "Jesus Christ Hardcore" in their song JCHC. Over the following years, the bands sound changed dramatically to include metal, pop and speedcore. The band reformed in 2004 as the Death Campaign. Nothing else in their material compares with Dead to the World, which is as good as any Christian or secular punk band. Additional information can be found at http://www.myspace.com/officernegativejchc and at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Officer_Negative.
1997: Dead To The World (Screaming Giant) *
1999: Zombie Nation
1999: Live at the Roxy
2000: Split EP (w/Lugnut)
2002: Control is an Illusion (Something Sacred)
2004: Officer Negative Presents The Death Campaign (Solid State)
Olivia the Band (http://www.myspace.com/oliviatheband) - Christian pop punk band originally from the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Formed in 1995 by high school friends, the band relocated to San Diego, California. Infectious, positive, bouncy pop punk like the lighter songs of Blink-182 and Sum 41. The band takes its name in honor of the guitarist’s sister, who died at infancy.
2005: Olivia the Band (Essential Records)
2006: Back to Friends Where Summer Never Ends (Independent)
2008: Where We Come From It Never Snows (Up at Night Records)
One-21 (http://www.myspace.com/one21) - Eccentric, quirky punk from this Philadelphia, Pennsylvania band that played between 1995 and 2005. A bit early Fugazi, a bit of the Clash and a bit of street punk and ska. You can hear One-21 and Grenade at http://www.amazon.com/One-21/e/B000AQ0YPK/ref=ntt_mus_gen_pel
1997: In the Year King Uzziah Died (Flying Tart)
1998: When the Dragon is Finally Laid to Rest (Bulletproof Records)
2001: One-21 (Facedown Records) *
2003: Grenade (Facedown Records)
One Bad Pig (http://www.onebadpig.com) - Christian band formed in Austin, Texas in 1985. Their earliest albums were new wavey funky-punk and the music later transformed to a metal sound with a dance beat (Swine Flew sounds like Manitoba's Wild Kingdom/Handsome Dick Manitoba). Members of the band later played in Lust Control. Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/onebadpig and http://www.algonet.se/~kosher/obp/ and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Bad_Pig and http://www.metal-metropolis.com/one_bad_pig.htm.
1986: A Christian Banned
1989: Smash (Pure Metal)
1990: Swine Flew (Myrrh Records)
1991: I Scream Sunday (Myrrh Records)
1992: Live: Blow Down the House (Myrrh Records)
1994: Quintessential One Bad Pig, Vol. 1 (Diadem)
2000: Live at Cornerstone 2000 (M8)
Our Corpse Destroyed - (http://www.ocdestroyed.com) Whoa! Christian, hardcore, punk. Fast and furious street punk with pounding beats and soaring guitar riffs. Angry (but not boring) vocals. Parts Minor Threat, GBH and Slayer.
2003: Our Corpse Destroyed (Self Released)
2006: The System (Hairball8 Records / Paloma Sound)
2008: Avenge Your City (Take It By Force / Hairball8 Records) *
See also http://www.myspace.com/ourcorpsedestroyed.
Plankeye - (http://www.christianmusic.org/cmp/plankeye/index2.shtml) Melodic alternative band that had an early pop punk sound that later included a more indie and light grunge feel. Band played during the 90s. Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/plankeyerocks and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plankeye.
1994: Spill (Walk the Plank/Tooth & Nail)
1995: Spark (Tooth & Nail)
1996: Commonwealth (Tooth & Nail)
1997: The One and Only (Tooth & Nail)
1999: Relocation (BEC)
2001: Strange Exchange (BEC)
2002: Wings To Fly (BEC)
Rapid Rascals - (www.rapidrascals.de.vu) European streetcore from this Hamberg, Germany band signed to Handmade Overkill records. The band recently went on hiatus (used Google Translate on what was posted on their MySpace page). Sound is similar to Discipline (from The Netherlands).
Rebuild (5 songs)
War on Hell (3 songs)
The Rekoning (http://www.myspace.com/therekoning) - Smokin' hot bluesy and Celtic American punk band from Riverside, California. Intelligent old school punk with blending of harmonies and some Celtic sounds. Echoes of Youth Brigade, Social Distortion and Dropkick Murphys. I couldn't put down their "Road Less Traveled" album. Circle the pack tunes and lyrics for Thumper Punks everywhere. Perfect tunes to pogo around with close friends. A good review of "The Road Less Traveled can be found at http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/cdreviews/TheRoadLessTraveled.asp
2005: Out of the Void
2009: The Road Less Traveled (Strike First Records) *
Rev Counta and the Speedoze Early 80's new wave and punk sounds from UK based band consisting of Ian Smale and Andy Piercy. Spirit filled lyrics. More information about Ian Smale can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishmael_(Ian_Smale) and http://www.ishmael.org.uk/home.php.
Rise Above Ministries (http://www.myspace.com/riseaboveministries) - Punk worship music from a San Antonio, Texas based ministry. Brilliant punk and post-punk music from this ministry that preaches: "Religion Destroys, Christ Saves!" Additional information about the ministry can be found at http://riseaboveministries.org. Please email me if you know how I can get a copy of this spirit filled music.
Scaterd Few (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scaterd_Few) - Punk band from Burbank, California, which played off and on from 1983 to 2002. Dark, difficult, complex music combines punk, speed metal, funk, and goth into a chaotic and intense sound. Bowie-esque vocals with occasional haunting screams and wails -- perfect background music for your next flogging. I preferred “Sin Disease” to “Jawboneofanass” and “Out of the Attic”, but haven’t heard the others. No easy reference point other than maybe Exene’s Auntie Christ and (somebody on the web suggested) System of a Down.
1990: Sin Disease
1994: Jawboneofanass
1994: Out of the Attic
1998: Grandmother's Spaceship
2002: Omega No. 5
Seventyseventimes (77x) - (http://seventyseventimes.co.uk) Christian punk band from Bradford, England, formed in 2006 as the 'Punk Worship Band'. The band plays punk versions of Christian worship songs "to show people that church services can actually be enjoyable, passionate and loud." In early 2008 the band officially rebranded as seventyseventimes and now play original material, punk-rock worship, and both Christian and secular cover songs.
2006: Open Your Eyes
2008: Hope After All
Shorthanded - Three-piece melodic punk band from Salem, Oregon, that played during the late 1990’s. Shorthand has a sound similar to the Descendents, Mr. T Experience and many of the early Dischord Records. Band included lead singer/guitarist Andy Wiseman from the Tooth & Nail band Crux. Their "Simple" album is recommended, and "Forever Yours" is also good (with Bill Stevenson and Stephen Edgerton of the Descendents) producing. Historical information about the band can be found at: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/shorthanded1
1997: Simple (Boot to Head Records)*
1998: Slices of Life (Boot to Head Records)
2000: Forever Yours (Tooth & Nail Records)
Side Walk Slam - (http://www.sidewalkslam.net) Terrific punk band from St. Louis, Missouri, with sounds similar to the Descendents and MxPx. Catchy tunes with punch and hooks, harmonies and positive lyrics. Three member band that later formed 3/4 of the pop rock band Run Kid Run.
1996: Strobe (Tooth & Nail Records)
1999: Rock Anthems From The Midwest (independent)
2000: 2 Steps Forward, 5 Steps Back (Boot To Head Records)
2001: Past Remains (Tooth & Nail Records)
2002: Give Back (Tooth & Nail Records)
2003: ...And We Drive, 2003 (Tooth & Nail Records)
More information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/sidewalkslam.
Skamikaze! - (http://www.myspace.com/skamikazehc) - High energy ska band from Lake Elsinore, California, currently on tour of the West Coast. Delivering spirit-filled enthusiasm and entertaining horn arrangements (trumpet, trombone and sax), the band has an infectious sound combining elements of Fishbone, Sublime and The Selector. Fans of Five Iron Frenzy will find themselves skankin’ in no time. Highly recommended.
2009: Skamikaze CD (4 songs) *
Slick Shoes - (http://www.myspace.com/slickshoes) - Fast paced pop punk band that embodies the sound of Orange County, California, during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The band has recently united and is playing with much of their original line-up according to their myspace page. “Far From Nowhere” reaches classic punk status, sounding similar to Pennywise, NOFX and other Epitath record bands. Highly recommended. Their “Slick Shoes” album is not the punk blitzkrieg that is “Far From Nowhere”. It has a more mature, slower, melodic sound, but is still very enjoyable. Interestingly, the band’s later album is played with a faster, more thumpin’ sound. Wikipedia reports that their “name comes from the hit 1985 movie, The Goonies, 'slick shoes' being one of the character Data's many gadgets.” I always thought it was from the Twilight Zone episode Dead Man’s Shoes, where a psychic tells a bad guy to put on a pair of slick shoes so that he can’t get out of the way of a moving car. More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slick_Shoes.
See the song “Darko” from their Warped tour appearance. Doesn't get any better than this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBrjLwwW-EU
1997: Slick Shoes EP
1997: Rusty
1998: Burn Out
2000: Wake Up Screaming
2000: Slick Shoes/Cooter Split EP
2002: Slick Shoes
2003: Far From Nowhere *
2003: The Biggest and the Best
Smiley Kids - (http://www.myspace.com/thesmileykids) Breakneck-speed skate punk from Denver based punk group reminds of Rich Kids on LSD, Rancid and Operation Ivy. The band toured with Five Iron Frenzy and Switchfoot on the Pants Across America Tour. Uptempo and fun, with positive lyrics. I couldn't help but smile and pogo while listening. Listen for yourself at http://www.amazon.com/Smiley-Kids/e/B000APPVGI.
1999: Don’t Get Bored (Sarabellum) *
2007: Still Smilin' (Codependant)
Squad Five-O - (http://www.myspace.com/squadfiveo) Based in Savannah, Georgia, Squad Five-O was together from 1997 to 2006. The name was a combination of television show names Hawaii Five-O and The Mod Squad. Their first two albums are third-wave ska (without horn section) with punk influences similar to Rancid and Operation Ivy. If Minor Threat was a ska band (with Christian lyrics and a sense of humor), they would put out something like the "What I Believe" album. Over the years, their sound shifted to a more rock sound as they grew in popularity, and the band’s lyrical stance shifted from Christian unity to more metaphorically positive themes. I prefer their first two albums which maintain their fast paced ska and moonstomp sound blended with three-chord punk. They are described on the internet in several places as being a “glam band” (which I’m not sure is entirely correct) due to their later classic rock sounding albums.
1997: What I Believe - BulletProof Records *
1998: Fight the System - BulletProof Records
2000: Bombs Over Broadway - Tooth & Nail Records
2002: Squad Five-O - Tooth & Nail Records
2004: Late News Breaking - Capitol Records
More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squad_Five-O and http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:jxfyxq9kldae.
Strongarm - (http://www.xmusicx.nl) Five piece hardcore band from Pompano Beach, Florida, that played between 1993 and 1998. Gravel voiced hardcore with positive lyrics spewed over pounding speedcore with some metal sounds. Reminds of Agnostic Front, Brightside and Sick of It All. Extremely tight and developed musicianship on The Advent of a Miracle, which is the best of what I've heard. More information about the band can be found at http://www.xs4all.nl/~stapel/strongarm/biography.htm and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strongarm_(band) and http://www.myspace.com/strongarm and http://www.toothandnail.com/artists/233/Strongarm/.
1993: Strongarm (demo tape)
1993: These Times That Try Men's Souls
1994: Division EP
1995: Trials EP
1995: Atonement
1997: The Advent of a Miracle
Tantrum of the Muse - (http://www.myspace.com/tantrumofthemuse19982004) - Complicated post-punk and progressive metal from this Lancaster County Pennsylvania band that played from 1998 to 2004. Sounds a bit like Fugazi, Quicksand (with screamo), and a blend of Pavement and Helmet. The band includes Udrick Wise, who later played with the Huntingtons.
1998: The Heart is a Two Sided Sperm
2000: ModernMu$ick (Takehold Records)
Ten 33 (http://www.myspace.com/ten33) - Positive hardcore and punk from this Richmond, Virginia, band that played between 2000 and 2006. Thundering guitars and drums wrapped around hardcore vocals (not overly screamo) that focus on faith, relationships and other hardcore themes. "Nightmare on Grace Street" is an enjoyable hardcore album, but unfortunately they look done for good (with their MySpace page having all the music and video removed). You can hear the band on iTunes and elsewhere however.
2004: Emergency! Emergency! (Blood & Ink)
2005: Nightmare on Grace Street (Blood & Ink)
These Hearts (http://www.myspace.com/thesehearts) - Self-styled "popcore" (which is a pretty good description) from this Fargo, North Dakota band. One minute sticky sweet pop, and the next minute light screamo and hardcore riffs. They have a unique (maybe even a little weird) sound that has a youthful bounce and feel. Major label style website that is a bit slick for my taste. Sounds like a combination of Underoath and Hawk Nelson, with a metalcore edge. More information about the band can be found at http://www.highwiredaze.com/thesehearts.htm
2008: Mistakes and Second Takes EP
2009: 2 Song Demo
True Liberty - Brilliant old-school punk and Oi! with spirit filled lyrics from this Richmond, Virginia three-piece band. Sounds influences include The Business, Social Distortion and Cocksparrer. Street punk sound as a backdrop for their strong Christ centered message. Band includes Mike Liberty on guitar and lead vocals, Aaron Liberty on drums and backup vocals, and Andrew Godfrey on bass and backup vocals. The band's website includes a section about their beliefs, and encourages people to reach out to them through the website or at a show to discuss their faith -- awesome! Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/truelibertyrva, and their "Take It Back" video can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJnMbFFboxQ. Essential music.
2005: Demo I
2006: Demo II
2007: This is War (Raging Storm Records) *
2008: Brotherhood (Self Released) *
2010: The City of One *
Undercover - Formed in the early 1980s by Joe Taylor, Undercover was one of the original Christian punk bands (along with the Altar Boys) in southern California, and are my favorite band from that time. They became part of the Calvary Chapel Christian punk and alternative music scene in Orange County, which also included the bands The Choir, Crumbächer, Altar Boys and 4-4-1. "God Rules," the title track of their second album, is the song that first generated attention for the band. Their sound evolved from a new wave sound (with saxophone and horn) to straightforward punk to a New Romantic feel, but always included Joe playing the bass line on a keyboard. These guys were as powerful an onstage juggernaut as you will find anywhere, and hardcore committed the message of the Good News. The band had a variety of lineups over the years, but their “Boys and Girls Renounce the World” and “Branded” era was my favorite – four hulking guys including one with a mohawk jubilantly exhorting the crowd to “Pray!” Some of their songs included punk versions of traditional hymns such as “Holy Holy Holy." Joe’s synthesizer also gave the band a unique gothic-church organ sound, which allowed the band to cover the breadth of emotions. Now 20 years later, some of their music sounds somewhat dated due to their use of a synthesizer, but nowhere will you find a more powerful, moving and honest discussion of everyday hardships of Christian life and the daily struggle to live life in a way that honors Christ’s many sacrifices. Highly recommended, especially their “God Rules,” “Boys and Girls Renounce the World” and “Branded” albums. You can buy their first two albums on a single CD called Volume 1 and their second two albums on another CD called Volume 2. For me, albums starting with “Balance of Power” lost their punk edge. Undercover was mentioned in the historical “Punk Rock in Southern California” by Henry Weld, which said: “Full blown bible thumping here; and while there were other bands with christian influences playing punk that sang about a variety of topics, these guys did not.” What a wonderful compliment for one of the original Thumper Punks! Previously included in my "Classics" list was Undercover's "God Rules" album. It is an awesome album that I love dearly. But, as I've been reminded two times now, their sound isn't exactly punk. So I don't want to lead people the wrong way if they're looking for a punk album. Somebody said, "you had to be there to like these guys now." Well, I was and I do. More information about the band can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Undercover_(band).
1982: Undercover, MRS Records.
1983: God Rules, A&S Records. *
1984: Boys and Girls Renounce the World, A&S Records. *
1986: Branded, Blue Collar Records. *
1988: 3-28-87 (live album), Broken Records.
1990: Balance of Power, Broken Records.
1992: Devotion, Brainstorm Artists International.
1994: Forum, WAL.
2000: Live at Cornerstone 2000. Millennium 8.
2002: I Rose Falling. Galaxy21 Music.
UniSEF - (http://unisef.media.officelive.com/default.aspx) Fantastic old-school American street punk from this Boise, Idaho band that played between 2005 and 2009. Three piece band that is musically ahead of most bands, with a sound similar to Rancid (closest), Bouncing Souls and Stiff Little Fingers. Energetic sound and earnest Christ centered lyrics (complete with Mohawks) make for one of Christian punk’s best bands. Additional information about the band can be found at http://www.myspace.com/uniSEF, videos can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/unisef, and the albums are available for free download at http://unisef.media.officelive.com/freedownload.aspx
All albums are self-released under their “208 – JCHC” label:
2005: Change the World (demo)
2007: Can These Bones Live *
2008: Death and Revolution (5 songs; split with Thee Imposters)
2009: Ransom
Unshackled - (http://www.myspace.com/unshackled915) Old school, street punk and ska from El Paso, Texas band. Sound influences include Rancid, Toy Dolls, Angelic Upstarts and Cock Sparrer. Fans of Officer Negative and FBS take notice.
Value Pac - (http://www.myspacen.com/valuepac) Excellent pop-punk from this Orange County, California band that played in the late 1990s. Their sound fits squarely between early Green Day and the Descendents. Their sound has a straightforward but playful sound with solid song writing, and non-whiny but melodic vocals. Positive, upbeat punk. Their second album Jalapeno was produced by the late Dennis Danels of Social Distortion, and includes a touch of ska and emo.
1995: Value Pac (Tooth & Nail) *
1997: Jalepeno (Chordant)
The W’s - (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_W's). Swing revival, ska, rockabilly band from Corvallis, Oregon, that played between 1996 and 2000. Not exactly punk, but Fourth from the Last is very good, with sounds similar to Royal Crown Review, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and a less hectic Less Than Jake.
1998: Fourth from the Last
1999: Trouble With X
Wake Into The Nightmare - (http://www.myspace.com/WAKEINTOTHENIGHTMARE). NYC hardcore sound with pounding drums, metal core guitars and snarling vocals, from this Baton Rouge, LA band. Sounds like Terror, Hatebreed and similar. More information about the band can be found at:
http://hxcchristian.com/373/wake-into-the-nightmare
xLOOKING FORWARDx (www.xlookingforwardx.com) - Full throttle mix of hardcore, thrash and metalcore with pounding beats, hard vocals and blasting guitars, from this band out of Belaire, Maryland that was formed in 1999. Hard enough for the mosh pit, but musically smart and entertaining enough to avoid becoming boring after the first listen. Members of the band are straight edge, and lyrically focus on friendship, family, and their faith in God. Sound similar to S.O.D., Sick of It All, and NYC hardcore (but high energy singing and screaming, instead of just raspy snarling). Review is based on The Path We Tread, one of the only pure hardcore albums to receive a highly recommended rating.
Additional information about the band can be found at:
http://www.myspace.com/xlookingforwardx
http://www.facedownrecords.com/family_xlfx.html
1999: 1117 (six song demo)
2001: 1117 (eight songs including the demo released on DFF Records)
2002: Ahoy Crew Members! (DFF Records)
2004: What This Means to Me (Blood and Ink Records)
2005: The Path We Tread (Facedown Records) *
xSUNDAY SCHOOLX (http://www.myspace.com/xsundayschoolx) - Straight edge band from Auckland, New Zealand, that makes its 8 song album available for free download at:
http://skeeto.org/xsundayschoolx/
The 77’s - (http://www.77s.com) Formed in the late 1970s in Sacramento, California, their first album “Ping Pong Over the Abyss” has an early 80s, new wave sound reminiscent of Joe Jackson, Elvis Costello, and the Jam from that timeframe. Not punk by a long shot, but good mid-tempo music with that spiky-hair, skinny tie attitude on their albums during the 80s. Later music had more of a pop and modern rock sound. Information about the band can be found on at http://www.myspace.com/the77s and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_77s.
1983 - Ping Pong Over the Abyss
1984 - All Fall Down
1987 - The 77s
1990 - Sticks and Stones
1992 - Pray Naked
1994 - Drowning with Land in Sight
1995 - Tom Tom Blues
1999 - ep (EP)
2001 - A Golden Field of Radioactive Crows
2002 - Direct (EP)
2008 - Holy Ghost Building
Additionally, dc Talk’s “Jesus Freak” album deserves mention here. While not a punk album, but absolutely essential with a sound similar to Red Hot Chilli Peppers “Mother’s Milk” sound. Their other albums include more rap and pop than I like, but are hugely popular with contemporary Christian music listeners.
There are better web sites, especially (1) the Christian Hardcore Music forum which is dedicated to Punk, Hardcore and Oi, and (2) the Jesus Freak Hideout web site which covers contemporary Christian music broadly. Check on the links above (top of page on right) for a couple of other starting points. Make a joyful noise (and lots of it!)
Also of interest is the 2004 documentary film “Why Should the Devil Have All The Good Music” from non-Christian filmmakers Vickie Hunter and Heather Whinna. I recommend this not as much for the music, but for the honest look at the conflict between wanting to “make it” as a band and staying true to their Christian beliefs. It is also worthy for its both praise and negatively critical observations from inside and outside the movement. Be prepared to absorb some rocks, but also savor some victories. The movie requires patience, as it starts slowly while it recounts some historical Christian rock influences leading up to the 2003 Cornerstone music festival.
Future bands that may be added to the review list above include The Last Hope, Spudgun, The Havoc, Upside Down Room, Anguish Unsaid, Brian and the Wounds, Upside Down Room, The Subject, Johnny Respect, Revolution Radio, The Scurvies, Destroy Nate Allen, Remnants, Jesus Skins, Take It Back, Stellar Kart, Left Out, Reliant K, OC Supertones, Five Iron Frenzy, Mortal, Vengeance Rising, Focused, Comeback Kid, the Prayer Chain, Pocket Change, Steve Taylor, Cool Hand Luke, Hawk Nelson, Zao, 90 Pound Wuss, Hangnail, Off the Record, The Undecided, The Deadlines, Element 101, The Deadlines, and others.
You can hear songs from most of the bands listed on this web page through Seeqpod (www.seeqpod.com) or at the usual internet sites (iTunes, eMusic, AmazonMusic, etc.). The best places to purchase used CD are eBay or Punktopia. There is also a chat on the Christian Harcore Music forum (http://www.hxcchristian.com) intended for people to sell and trade music.
I understand that many Christian bands don’t like being compared to secular bands. However, there is a difference in a record label promoting an album by saying the band sounds like Green Day to sell more albums, and an independent reviewer identifying a well known reference point. For example, if everybody knew the taste of frog’s legs, there would be no need to say that it “tastes like chicken.” If you listen to punk rock you have heard the Ramones, and a reference to that sound does not mean the Christian band is a copycat or somehow inferior.
I hope this helps you find music that helps in your journey with Christ, whether the sand in your path shows one set of footprints or two. Please feel free to leave comments. If you've just come to throw rocks, move along. I’ll just delete your posting. You can also contact me directly (comments, references to outdated links, band recommendations and other suggestions to update the site) at ThumperPunk(at)gmail(dot)com. Let me know what information you find, as this website is part journal and part journey for me.
So, play it faster…
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