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August 7th, 2002...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
xDriven By Firex, Crowd Deterrent, xRetaliatory Strikex, Inner Revolution, Down To None

After a two hour, first time practice with our two fill in guitar players, we showed up to the venue only to find out our bass player would not be showing up. We also arrived to find no 100 Demons, which we didn't find very surprising. However, the show went on with about 30 kids showing up. We played first with our new line-up and had pretty much everyone watching. We only messed up at one point in our set with the new line up, so that was pretty good...and surprising at the same time. Inner Revolution played second and were tight as usual. Once again, these guys are positive old school hardcore from Youngstown, OH. My guesses are that these guys will be going places in the future, so keep an eye out when they stop by your town. xRetaliatory Strikex played third and had the most people in the room. They are finally getting a really good fan base in the Erie area, kinda reminds me of what Problem Solver Revolver had while they were around. Crowd Deterrent jumped on for three songs after xRSx's set and blew everyone away. They really shouldn't have broken up, everyone still thinks the band rules and really wish they were still together. Oh well, what can you do? Even though alot of people left after Crowd Deterrent, xDriven By Firex still played a really tight set. They drove the whole way from Michigan, so people should be glad that they stuck around. They are really tight Straight Edge beatdown hardcore. Check them out if they're ever near you, my favorite song is Suffocation.
 
Overall this show (and day) was pretty fun. We hung out in the area all day waiting to practice, so that was pretty cool. We did pretty good, actually, considering we only practiced for two hours with two new members. Haha, it was our CD Release show and we didn't sell a single CD, oh well.

July 25th, 2002...Forward Hall...Erie, PA
Throwdown, Sworn Enemy, Most Precious Blood, One Nation Under, The Promise

The line up to this show was one of the best that I've attended in a while, so I was pretty anxious on the way up to the show. We got there just in time to see The Promise and I'm really happy we didn't have to miss any of their set. The Promise features ex members of Another Victim and they are somewhat similar in style, but these guys have more of an old school influence. The lyrics are some of the most sincere in hardcore today, definitely check them out if you liked Another Victim. One Nation Under came up next to destroy the place as they always do. They are one of the most brutal beatdown hardcore bands I've witnessed in my days and, even better, they represent Straight Edge too. Awesome band with an awesome message, these guys should be huge in the upcoming year or so. Most Precious Blood was on third, and they played a pretty tight set. I've seen them a few times now, but I still haven't picked up the disc. I'm sure I'd like these guys alot more than what I do now if I knew all the songs, I should pick that up sometime. The band we were all waiting for was finally ready to play after Most Precious Blood. Sworn Enemy, who I see about once a month, never seems to get old. They actually grab my attention more and more every time I see the guys live. I'm sure you all know them, so I won't bother describing, but I'm telling you all to make sure you pick up the new CD when it comes out...it's gonna be insane. Throwdown finished the show off and, in my opinion, were a big disappointment. Actually, they didn't really disappoint me because I wasn't expecting much. I think these guys lost their touch after Beyond Repair and I don't think the new singer is cutting it either.
 
Overall this show was pretty damn good. All the bands were touring bands who you don't get to see every week, so that was also a big plus. The mosh police were a good addition too.

July 20th, 2002...Nyabinghi...Youngstown, OH
Pitboss 2000, Blind Society, Insult To Injury, The Struggle

I'm going to start this off by saying, after going to Hell Fest, I appreciate the TRUE hardcore bands ten times more than I ever did before, so this show was greatly appreciated. The Struggle opened the show with their usual set of the songs off the demo and a few new ones. Kids from Chicago who came out really seemed to like them, so it was good to see them again. Insult To Injury played second...and they were HARD. I would say this is one of the hardest bands to ever make their way out of Chicago. The yare just brutal hardcore, with some thrash, punk, and beatdown influences...it all comes together nicely. Blind Society played next, as this was their second time playing Youngstown. I really like this band considering they are mainly on the punk side of things, so you know they must be pretty impressive. Pitboss finished the show off to a crazy crowd as always. The new songs haven't lost their touch at all and their live show is tight as ever. The lyrics keep getting harsher and the live show keeps getting funnier.
 
Overall, this show was a very good one, something everyone should have came to. I wish we had shows like this around the Pittsburgh area.

July 19th, 2002...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
xRetaliatory Strikex, Inner Revolution, Silent But Deadly, Cease To Breathe

Well, it wasn't really a surprise, but we showed up to find out that Rick Ta Life couldn't make it, so Comin Correct would not be playing that night. I really can't complain though, my distro benefitted greatly from him now showing up. haha. Untold Truth from Connecticut didn't show up either, but what can you do? So, basically, we were left with all the local bands playing, but that was still a fun show. Cease To Breathe started off with their usual set of in your face metal. It has beatdowns like most of the other metalcore bands, but they don't have any bad singing parts in their songs, so they're good in my book. Silent But Deadly played next and unveiled their new masterpiece, Football, Beer, during their set. The new song rules and they keep getting tighter, can't wait to hear the new CD. Inner Revolution, from Youngstown, was playing third in this show. They sounded pretty good this time and got kids moving with some cover songs. It's always good to see these guys, real positive melodic old school stuff, check it out. xRetaliatory Strikex headlined this show being as it was their CD Release show and they did a pretty good job. They played a really long set because there were only four bands that night, so we got to hear all the new songs and a few old ones. Erie Old School Straight Edge, everyone check that shit out as well.
 
Overall this show was pretty fun as well, even though Comin Correct didn't show up.

July 8th, 2002...Forward Hall...Erie, PA
Hatebreed, Ringworm, Seven Stitches, Saving Throw

After two hours of waiting to see 100 Demons while driving in the car, we showed up only to find out that they had cancelled, along with Ensign. Saving Throw was replacing Ensign for the night, but there was no replacement for 100 Demons. Had I known 100 Demons were not playing, we would not have drove two hours to see the bands we would be seeing in a few days at Hell Fest. Well, being as we didn't feel like turning around and driving home, we made the best of it. Saving Throw started playing as we walked in the door, but they were actually pretty terrible, so I didn't miss much. Alot of kids seemed to like their shit though, I can't really describe it, but they must be doing something right. Seven Stitches played next, and they made the trip worthwhile considering they were the only band on this show not playing Hell Fest. Their new songs continually get better, I hear a definite Godbelow/Die My Will influence coming through in these songs, the live show is improving as well. Ringworm was up next and tore the stage up as always. ALOT of kids were moving for these guys this time around and it was great to hear a few old songs. These guys keep gaining ground on becoming one of my favorite bands, I like them better every time I see them. Even though they ended their set with a shitty Kiss cover, the set was a good time overall. After all that was said and done, Hatebreed took the stage and had Erie hanging from every note they played. Everyone in the room was singing along or dancing, there were barely any people there who were standing still.
 
Overall, this show was pretty good despite having 100 Demons cancel. It also sucked that I was not allowed to bring a camera in due to Hatebreed's label's regulations. The electricity kept going out during Hatebreed's set, but that was all over town, not just the venue. It was cool to get to see them in a small venue once again.

July 3rd, 2002...Rally Ally...Latrobe, PA
Redline, Down To None

The night before the show, I received an e-mail from Full Blown Chaos saying they could not make the show. As I was scrambling to find replacements the next day, Punishment and Ring True cancelled the show as well. So, 3 out of 5 bands cancelled on me, leaving my band to play with Redline. I thought things would be OK, until we showed up and there was no one there besides us and Redline. After a few hours, some people decided to start showing up, but it ended up being 13 kids, all of which were people I knew. However, the show went on and we were determined to have a good time. We played 5 songs on stage, without our guitar player who decided vacation was more important than our show. I tried playing guitar and singing at the same time, which worked out somewhat, but we just didn't sound that tight. It was kind of embarassing up there sucking that bad in front of Redline. But when they went on, everyone was ready to move. They played a rather long set and had EVERYONE moving the entire time. Even though it was about 95 degrees in this place, Redline played some brutal beatdown hardcore after coming in from New Jersey to play this show. Definitely check these guys out if they ever play your town.
 
Overall, this show was damn fun considering I lost money and only had 13 kids show up. I think Redline actually enjoyed themselves, which was the main goal after finding out they were the only band that was playing.

June 28th, 2002...Nyabinghi...Youngstown, OH
Armed Battery, Inner Revolution, The Struggle, The Red Tops, The Idyll

Once again, I showed up late to Youngstown...that's two times in a row. Either way, I missed half of The Idyll's set. They were a melodic emo kinda band, similar to Glassjaw or Thursday. Not really my thing, but they were tight. The Red Tops, a punk band from Philly, were playing second on the bill. Their style was basically punk, but they added elements of thrash and rock-a-billy in some parts...definitely something original. They were OK, but they definitely played too long, it just got tiring. The Struggle played third to about 25 kids, but had their attention the whole time. They played the 4 songs off of their demo, 2 new ones, and a Circle Jerks cover. They got kids moving to their old school songs and had quite a few sing-a-longs. Things were pretty much the same when Inner Revolution played. They had kids singing along, dancing, and stage diving. They also threw in covers of Cro-Mags and Youth Of Today amongst their own songs. They played the songs from the demo and some new ones as well...I am really anxious to hear their full length they are putting out. After those two were done, Armed Battery, from Mercer, PA, were ready to play. Their style was all over the place, at times sounding like Madball, but at other times sounding like Reach The Sky. These guys definitely had a NYHC feel to them overall, and it was good to hear that kind of stuff around here.
 
Overall, this show was pretty fun. I finally got to see Armed Battery and I picked up all the stuff I needed from The Struggle to release their CD. There were probably about 30 kids there, but it was definitely a good time.

June 23rd, 2002...Nyabinghi...Youngstown, OH
Dead Wrong, Bones Brigade, The Struggle, Inner Revolution, xRetaliatory Strikex, Why I Oughtta

Well, because I'm an asshole and I couldn't stay awake, I got to the show late and missed Why I Oughtta's last show. Thankfully they played un-announced at the June 21st show or else I would've never gotten to see them. Anyhow, I made it just in time to see xRetaliatory Strikex once again. They played their usual set and just in case you didn't know, xRSx is an old school Straight Edge band from the Erie, PA area. They just put out their CD and I must say it is pretty hard. Anyhow, Inner Revolution went on next. They played to the most kids any band got that night and ripped through their usual set that includes a cover of World Peace by the Cro-Mags. The Struggle, who Inner Revolution split their set with, went on next and played the 4 songs from their demo. When you see one of these bands on a show, expect the other to play because the two bands are basically the same people playing different instruments. Both bands are similar in style, but The Struggle is a bit harsher while Inner Revolution is slightly more melodic. Check them both out for sure, though. Bones Brigade, a thrash band from Boston, went on next. 30 seconds into the first song, however, the singer managed to drop kick the guitar amp to the floor. Sooo, after trying to fix the amp, they started again. This time, though, the singer managed to break the microphone. The sound guy told him that he couldn't have another mic, so they played a set of cover songs that everyone was singing along to. They were definitely an intense band. For some reason though, after their set, everyone went and stood outside. Dead Wrong, from Connecticut, had to play to about 20 kids while about 30 were standing outside. I don't know about you, but I think that's pretty messed up. Either way, they were the best band of the night. They made a REALLY far drive for this show and deserved alot more respect than what they got. They are a pretty even mix of Integrity and Shutdown in my eyes. For every beatdown this band has, they have a melodic guitar solo comparable to Integrity. They are very good to say the least.
 
Overall, this show was another good, yet small, show. I would say about 40-50 kids showed up, but it was a good time nonetheless. I think this show had the most cover songs I can ever remember. I think there were 11 cover songs played all throughout the night, haha.

June 21st, 2002...Rally Ally...Latrobe, PA
Shotgun Facelift, Why I Oughtta, Final Stand, Down To None, xRetaliatory Strikex

The show started off by not having the owner show up until about 5 minutes before the show was supposed to start. No kids were there either at the time, so luckily the show was delayed about an hour. However, in that time, we realized we had no PA system to sing out of. Luckily, we found one in the closet, but only one speaker worked, and it was blown out as well. So, the vocals sounded like we were singing out of a megaphone for the first two bands. Anyhow, about 10 kids showed up, none of them being a member of Comin Correct. Either way, xRetaliatory Strikex played one of the best sets I've seen them play once again. They covered Ready To Fight by Negative Approach and Firestorm by Earth Crisis...that's all you need to know. After they finished we played our 6 song set to, basically, the other 3 bands. They seemed to like us and kids were moving, so that's all I ask for. Final Stand got to play after us, on a fixed PA system. Actually, it was a guitar cab used as a speaker, but at least it sounded good. They ripped the place apart, as usual, and had alot of us dancing. They let Why I Oughtta play their 5 minute set after they were done. Why I Oughtta is a side project for some of the members of xRSx. It is straight old school with a few cover songs in there. They played their set because it was pretty obvious at this time that Comin Correct wasn't going to show up. After them, Shotgun Facelift was ready to play. They were straight tough guy beatdown hardcore from the Philly, PA area. They were one of the heavier hardcore bands I've heard in quite some time. It sucked that most of the kids left before their set, especially considering they drove 5 hours.
 
Overall this show was really fun. I expected it to suck because of Comin Correct cancelling and 10 kids showing up, but it was a fun time to jack around and have a good time. It was hard trying to have 2 singers sing on 1 microphone though...haha.

June 20th, 2002...Club Laga...Oakland, PA
Sick Of It All, Reach The Sky, The Hope Conspiracy, Built Upon Frustration

After waiting for about an hour, Built Upon Frustration finally got the OK to play. It was great getting to see these guys on a nice PA with a big crowd. They played all 5 songs off their demo and a few new ones. They were honestly the best band of the night and the main reason I went. They are pure beatdown hardcore from Pittsburgh with members of No Retreat and Pro-Pain in the band. After they played their set, The Hope Conspiracy was ready to play. They played to a full house that magically appeared right before their set. It seemed like some kids liked them, but overall there wasn't much movement. However, when Reach The Sky took the stage, EVERYONE decided to start moving. These guys usually don't get much excitement in Pittsburgh, but a lot of kids decided to flip out for these guys. Sick Of It All finished the night off with a good variety of old and new songs. They played mostly new ones last time I saw them, but this time around it was just like an old school hardcore show.
 
Overall this show was one of the best shows I've been to at Laga. I barely go to the place anymore since it sucks so bad, but this show was damn good. Reach The Sky didn't really play any of my favorite songs though. It was funny when Sick Of It All made the crowd play a game of Braveheart. And, just so you know, the right side won.

June 4th, 2002...Rally Ally...Latrobe, PA
Every Time I Die, Bleeding Through, Norma Jean, Broken Free, Boywunder

When we got there it didn't seem like many kids were coming but we hoped for the best. At the end, I think there were like 30 kids, but we made the best of it. After alot of confusion on what bands were going to play, it ended up that Boywunder would be opening the show. They play a very intense set of their unique style of metalcore. I wouldn't even exactly call it that, it had elements of emo in there at times too. If I were you I would just check them out for yourselves and hear what they sound like. Well, anyhow, after Boywunder was done Broken Free set up. They played their usual 5 song set and had most of the people in the building's attention. If you read some of these reviews, I'm sure you know what they sound like already. Norma Jean set up next and were possibly one of the craziest live bands I've EVER seen in my life. Their set was just pure insanity with ALL of the members completely losing it. I honestly don't know how they can play their music so tight while flipping out like that. Hell, their singer even ended up hanging off of the ceiling. Their style was very comparable to Zao, but trust me, they were much more intense. Bleeding Through, the band I mainly wanted to see, was up next. They play metal, plain and simple. Although they have beatdown, you can't deny this is a pure metal band, they even have keyboards in their songs. I'd have to say these guys had the most mosh of the night, and they deserve it for coming in from California to play for 30 kids. Every Time I Die was up next, but I won't give my opinions on the band. A lot of the kids there, and overall, really like these guys, but I honestly have no idea why.
 
Overall, this show was pretty good. Other than the ETID singer crying because I sat down for their last song, it was a pretty good show. I felt bad for the promoters because no one bothered to show up, but what can you do?

June 1st, 2002...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
Final Stand, xRetaliatory Strikex, The Struggle, Inner Revolution, Cease To Breathe, Silent But Deadly, Down To None

Well, I'll start off by saying I DID NOT LOSE ANY MONEY ON THIS SHOW.  I am very proud of myself, it was the first show ever that I have not lost money on. Well, anyhow, we were planning on releasing our CD for this show, but we only recorded it before the show started. Anyhow, we played first and I think the kids liked Down To None. I usually can't tell what kids are thinking, but I think they liked us up there. Anyhow, Silent But Deadly went on second and broke a string on their first song. After fixing all of that up, they played through their set over again. However, they got the lights and microphones cut on them for some reason that I still never found out. Well, their style is a beatdown version of Pitboss 2000, so check them out when you get the chance. Cease To Breathe, the band they split their set with, took the stage next and blew us away with their style of mosh metal. They were pretty damn good and included a Prayer For Cleansing cover in their set. Honestly though, I think they'd be better off if they played their own stuff, they're better than Prayer For Cleansing anyhow. The Struggle played next and they had the pit open up pretty wide. They played a few covers and all of their own songs, so it was a good time. Inner Revolution came up immediately afterwards and also played a set of Youngstown Old School Hardcore. This was one of their first shows, and I honestly think these guys have the potential to go places with their band. During their set, however, I got a call from xSuffocate Fasterx saying that they could not play this show and they were stuck in Iowa. So...that sucked big time, but I talked xRetaliatory Strikex (who were in the building) into playing a 5 song set. They managed to play a set without practicing for 3 months...but it sounded tight as hell. They covered Negative Approach as well...it has to be a good time. Honestly though, I think that was their tightest set I have ever seen them play. Well, anyhow, after them, Final Stand was ready to headline...and everyone was ready for them. During their set was probably the biggest and craziest pit I've ever seen at The Hangout. There were probably about 25 kids dancing at one time. These guys are going to be very big in the near future.
 
Overall, this was one of the funner shows I've been to in recent memory. I didn't lose money, we got to record, mad kids came out to the show, and we got to hang out with all of our Erie friends. It was good times.

May 30th, 2002...Club Laga...Oakland, PA
Shadows Fall, Lamb Of God, Scissorfight

Well, before you even read this, let me start by saying this was the worst show I've been to all year...it completely sucked. If you want to know why, just read on. The show started off by being informed that Unearth cancelled for the night because of an emergency. They were the main reason I was going, but I made the drive and didn't feel like driving home. So I went in (bad move) only to find the show was still 12 dollars to get in. After that, I was just hoping the two bands I never heard before (Lamb Of God & Scissorfight) were going to be worth my money. However, I always seem to have bad luck. Scissorfight was like a southern metal band who were drunk off their asses...I don't think they knew where they were. Although they were listenable, they weren't the kind of band I want to see live, it gets really boring. They were kind of funny though, mainly because they were drunk. Lamb Of God was up next, and they definitely didn't live up to their hype. I can see why hardcore kids like them (beatdowns), but I have no idea why any metalhead would like them. They just sound like watered down death metal to me, something hardcore kids would like. Oh well, that's just my personal view. Shadows Fall was finally ready to headline after all of that. Even though they were completely awesome on stage, it couldn't make up for the rest of the show being horrible. They played alot of new songs which are going to be amazing once they get recorded.
 
Overall, this show sucked big time due to a few things...Unearth cancelling, stupid metalheads, Lamb Of God & Scissorfight not being anything special, and still having to pay 12 bucks. Oh well, can't win them all.

May 24th, 2002...CD Warehouse...Greensburg, PA
Broken Free, Down To None, Last Goodbye, John Courage, Known In Part

As we showed up to the CD Warehouse, we found out Known In Part was replacing The Reliance because of a show confusion at another venue. They were a touring band from NC and needed a show so Dave let them jump on his show. They were somewhat of a punk band...yet with emo and pop parts...very original band. The best band I can think of to compare them to is Pennywise or 98 Mute. Oh well, I'm not good with punk bands. John Courage played their LOUD interpretation of grindcore after Known In Part was done. They are from the Greensburg area and have two singers...which makes out to be a pretty insane live show. Last Goodbye, driving all the way from Cleveland, was ready to play next. They are quite possibly the most awkward live band I have ever witnessed. They managed to play some decent metalcore though. These guys were completely going nuts for a room that really wasn't that packed...I guess you gotta respect that. After Last Goodbye was done, we played a shortened set to about 15 kids. I was actually surprised that most of the kids there were into our music. Broken Free was finally ready to headline and they played to about 10 kids. Yeah, that's very lame that only 10 kids stuck around until the end...but what can you do. They put alot of energy into their set as always and played one of their better sets I've seen them play.
 
Overall, this show was pretty fun. We got asked to play a whopping 5 hours before the show, but we managed to pull it off with only one singer (me).

May 18th, 2002...Nate's Place...Punxsutawney, PA
Broken Free, Down To None, Orange Spade, The Student Painters

We got asked to play this show Friday, so we decided to play it. We drove out, got pretty lost, but managed to find the place right before The Student Painters went on. They're an emo band from the area and are pretty good for what they do. Emo's definitely not my thing, but they've always been cool to us and have played some shows with us. Orange Spade, who played next, was an energetic punk band of pretty young kids. Good stuff for punk...kinda sounded like Pennywise or 98 Mute. Don't take my advice though, I don't know too much on punk. Next, we played to about 20 kids that I couldn't tell if they liked us or not...but at least they watched. Our other singer didn't come and I had strep throat (and lost my voice afterwards)...but it was worth it. Broken Free finished off the show and did a pretty good job. The new line-up is really coming into it's own and the new songs are sounding pretty tight.
 
Overall, this show was kind of weird. It was like a youth center filled with kids who were more interested in playing pinball than watching the bands they paid to see. Oh well, I don't care, it was a benefit show for the place and we had fun.

May 11th, 2002...Nyabinghi...Youngstown, OH
Crowd Deterrent, Blind Society, Stepsister, Gas Chamber

As always, we got lost as all hell trying to get to this place. MapQuest screwed us over soooo badly on this trip. I thought for sure we were gonna miss Gas Chamber (half the reason I went). But, luckily, we showed up and Gas Chamber was still waiting to go on. They play a style of thrash that NO ONE, from around here at least, has played in 10 years. It's complete old school thrash insanity. I think this band could blow any of those original thrashers of the 80s off the stage. None of the kids there felt like having an actual mosh pit though, so I was disappointed we didn't get to circle pit. Anyhow, after them we left to get something to eat because Stepsister was some Rock-A-Billy band who was just replacing 9 Shox Terror. We came back right as Blind Society was about to go on. I honestly wasn't expecting much more than boring punk music from this band...but they seriously surprised me. They had two singers and played mean and angry punk which I would almost call old school hardcore. They also covered Cro-Mags and Black Flag songs...can't beat that combination. Right after their set, The Struggle played a show 2 song set to get things warmed up...they're good old school hardcore. After all that, the moment we were waiting for arrived. Crowd Deterrent's last show for a long time was about to take place. They played all the classic songs and had an insane pit the whole set. It was seriously scary when they played Everybody Bleeds Tonight. Good way to go out for a while with this show.
 
Overall, this show was pretty damn fun. Got to hang out with everyone from out there and got to see the bands I wanted to. Only thing that sucked was that Run Devil Run was playing their last show in Cleveland that night and I had to miss it.

May 10th, 2002...Grace United Methodist...Butler, PA
Terra Firma, Broken Free, Closer Than Dying, Brody, Requiem

I got to the show at 5:45...thinking it started at 6. Well...it ends up the show didn't start until 7:30. Also, to add to it, I was there by myself and the people I knew didn't show up until around 7. Anyhow...to be completely honest...the first two bands were terrible. Requiem was some trance bullshit and Brody was pop punk who said hardcore beatdowns are Korn riffs. So, yeah, that was bad. Those two bands played until 8:30...which means I had been there for almost 3 hours with nothing to do. MISERABLE. Finally, however, Closer Than Dying was ready to play. Their style is kind of a beatdown version of Undying. They're from the Edinboro, PA area and are very underated for what they play. After them was Broken Free, who was down a guitar player for the night. They played their usual set and were probably the best band of the night. After dancing for the past two bands, I was done for the night, even though Terra Firma was playing. This was my first time seeing Terra Firma live and it was pretty damn good. About half of the kids in the building for that night were singing along to all of the songs. They played most, if not all, of the songs on the CD which was put out a few years. Check these guys out if you like Shai Hulud, Ensign, or Strongarm.
 
Overall, this show was kind of weak. I think I'm just pissed because I sat there for almost 3 hours until a good band came on. Dancing was pretty funny considering most of the kids had no idea what I was doing and thought something was wrong with me. Meeting the cool kid in the Earth Crisis shirt was awesome too...missed his name though...if you read this...contact me somehow.

April 27th, 2002...Charity Grange Hall...Dayton, OH
Comin Correct, Nailed To The Cross, 200 North, Down To None, Samsara, Silence Said It All, Legbone

After the 5 hour drive, we showed up at the venue and were ready to play. We were pretty happy to find out that we wouldn't have to be playing first. Samsara, from Michigan, opened the show...and did a damn good job at it. They played a chaotic, offbeat style of metalcore for around 20 minutes. Their set was full of energy and the band member beating each other. Silence Said It All was up next and I believe they are from the Dayton area. They played a melodic metalcore kind of thing that was similar to Poison The Well or Between The Buried And Me. Not my thing, but other kids seemed to like it. We played next and the place went completely nuts for us. I was surprised those kids out there liked our shit...but it was definitely our best show. 200 North went up after us, and those bastards didn't give us enough time to put away our gear...haha. So we missed the first song or two, but their set was EXTREMELY good. I was never really into this band before this show, but they are now one of my favorite bands. They pack so much emotion into their melodic hardcore package than you could imagine. Definitely check these guys out. Nailed To The Cross played next and had a very amusing pit. These guys are a hardcore band...plain and simple...kind of in the style of Comin Correct or 25 Ta Life...but I'm not sure of who to compare them to. Good shit nonetheless. A punk band named Legbone played after Nailed To The Cross, but they definitely weren't my thing. Finally, Comin Correct was ready to play. This was their first show back from their Europe tour...and they lost some members. The new guys played good, but they seemed to have lost a little bit of momentum from their other shows. I am sure that once they get a sturdy line-up again...it will be good.
 
Overall, this show was more than I could've asked for. The 5 hour drive was worth it for all the cool people we met. Very cool that the kids out there liked us and our style of music...thanks again to Mike and Sara from Nailed To The Cross.

April 23rd, 2002...Club Laga...Oakland, PA
Hatebreed, Converge, Glassjaw, Stalemate

When we arrived, we had to pay 15 bucks for a ticket...only to find out Reach The Sky cancelled. So, the show started off on a bad foot. Well, it didn't get any better for a while. In all honesty...Stalemate and Glassjaw were fucking torture. Those two bands are horrible...end of story. Well, anyhow, after 3 hours of doing nothing but hanging out and having our ears tortured...Converge took the stage. I was thinking they would be insane on the huge PA system this venue has...but all you could hear was noise and vocals. That was kind of a disappointment...but it wasn't Converge's fault. Well, after all the disappointments...Hatebreed came on stage to play their set...which made it worth the 15 bucks. They played basically all the songs they've written (as always) and tore Pittsburgh a new asshole. Hearing those new songs was very awesome...it's good to see them play new material instead of the same songs I've heard them play the last 8 times I've seen them. Of course, there were two pits...which I think takes away some of the fun. People like to complain about all the nu metal kids there and whatnot...but I think it's entertaining to watch them.
 
Overall, this show was kind of a disappointment. Paying 15 bucks for a show with one good band always sucks. Oh well, I got to hang out with all of my friends throughout the night. Oh yeah, this dickhead security guard took away all my flyers and acted hard until he realized that I was there with people over the age of 16. So he came over and apologized and asked for a demo CD which I was handing out...fucking loser.

April 1st, 2002...Rally Alley...Latrobe, PA
Broken Free, Cold Light Of Day, The Reliance, Down To None

After having a small problem finding the place and getting into the place...the show was ready to begin. We opened the show to about 25 kids who seemed to be about 25% into us. I don't know...we sucked plus no one really seemed to like us...bad set for us. After our set we went to grab some stuff to eat and got lost in Latrobe, so we missed The Reliance. Sorry about that guys, but I heard the Mp3s and they were pretty good...emotional kinda punk...check it out. Well, after we got back from eating, Cold Light Of Day was about to play through their set. I'm very glad we got back in time because these guys ruled. Their style is melodic (at times) metalcore that can be compared to 7 Angels 7 Plagues. These guys definitely have something going for them and should be pretty big in the future. After their 4 song set, Broken Free was ready to play. They sounded alot tighter than their show at The Upstage a week ago. Not saying they were sloppy then, just saying this set was incredibly good. This is another band who should be going places in the future. Some band from Virginia called Reflux were supposed to headline the show, but they didn't show up for some reason...it still remains a mystery.
 
Overall, this show was very odd. Although there were some people who were angry because Every Time I Die and Blood Has Been Shed cancelled, the show ran pretty smoothly. We were kinda off that night, but the other bands made up for it.

March 22nd, 2002...The Upstage...Oakland, PA
Run Devil Run, Endless, 200 North, Broken Free

We got to the venue, and the show was actually starting on time...that is a first in a long time. On my way in though, the bouncers told me I was not allowed to hand out flyers for a show in WV because it would take away their business!?!?!? Oh well, I guess I should expect that kinda shit. Anyhow, this show would be the first time I've seen Broken Free with their new line-up. They started to play a soundcheck and I knew it'd be a good set from them. They played most of their old songs, plus 2 new ones. I liked the new line-up and Travis was a good replacement for Trey on vocals. Well, after them, 200 North, the new Da-Core Records signings, took the stage. They're from somewhere in Maryland and they play an intense style of hardcore similar to Shai Hulud. Honestly though, I don't even like Shai Hulud, but these guys were pretty damn good. They had tons of energy on stage and were possibly the best band of the night. Endless played their usual set next and gave us all a fun time. Their Sick Of It All cover got everyone moving and even called for a breakdance from Eric Klinger. After Endless played, Run Devil Run took the stage and got everyone moving. Their style of old school hardcore is full of intensity and gets everyone moving all the time. They played their whole set while the bouncers continued to be dickheads and pull everyone off the pile-ons and whatnot. When they got on their last song, however, the bouncers decided to get really violent. Everyone was dancing and having a great time, but the bouncers didn't seem to give that an OK. They started a fight with everyone and got scared when they fought back. The night ended in a fight with the bouncers and some people getting thrown down a flight of steps. That's bullshit if you ask me.
 
Overall, it was a small, yet good, show with some good bands playing. In the end though, it was a shame to have the bouncers ruin the show for everyone. There was not even a problem until they got involved....that's bullshit.

March 15th, 2002...Forward Hall...Erie, PA
xDisciplex AD, Run Devil Run, Seven Stitches, One Nation Under, xRetaliatory Strikex

We got to the show right as it was beginning. It was nice not having to wait for probably the first time in history. Well, anyhow, xRSx played first because they were replacing This Present Darkness, who cancelled earlier that day. They played a good set and sounded very good on the Forward Hall PA system...can't wait for their EP. One Nation Under was up next...and the tension was building. I have been waiting to see this band again ever since their set at Hell Fest 2001. This band is amazingly brutal...and they proved that all throughout their set. They play an insanely brutal mix of Throwdown and 100 Demons. Yet this band is 10 times better than either of those bands on any given day. Their first few songs was probably the hardest I've ever danced in my days...I couldn't move for the rest of the night. Well, after that insanity, Seven Stitches was up next. They were pretty damn good too, they seemed to have ALOT of fans from their hometown of Erie, PA. Their style is something no one's really played yet...it's kind of a mid-paced metalcore thing going on...very good. Run Devil Run was up after this and it was my first time seeing this band live. I love all the energy and crowd participation they have. In case you don't already know, Run Devil Run is upbeat old school on Victory Records...also very good. xDisciplex was the headlinging band of the night. It has been quite some time since I've seen this band as well. They played 99% of their best songs (they missed Stronger) and played a very tight set. I am glad I got to see these guys again in their hometown.
 
Overall, this show was pretty damn good...no matter how tired I was afterwards. I was very pumped to get my hands on the One Nation Under disc...I suggest you all go out and pick this disc up.

March 8th, 2002...The Upstage...Oakland, PA
Built Upon Frustration, Crowd Deterrent, Final Stand, Down To None

We got at the place to play and it didn't look like it was going to be a very large show...there were about 5 kids waiting for the show at the time. Well, once we got all of our gear on the stage and everyone was ready...the crowd got alot bigger. This show ended up being one of the best local shows I've ever been to. Well, anyhow, this was our, Down To None's, first show with our new line-up. I honestly think it was our best show yet...ask someone else though. It seemed as if everyone liked our cover of the old ass Built Upon Frustration song...Questions. We even got Jason to come and sing...that was very cool. Next up was Final Stand from Clearfield, PA. They had their CDs finally made for this show, so I was happy to get my hands on one. They played that night with their new bass player, which made them sound 10 times tighter than usual. Crowd Deterrent was up next and they ripped through their usual (and short) set. It was good to see the insanity when you know all the lyrics finally. (Because they finally put out their CD with the lyrics in it). The crowd in Pittsburgh really seemed to like Crowd Deterrent this time around. Their popularity increases every time they play here, it seems. Well, after all that, Built Upon Frustration was finally ready to play. This is what we all have been waiting for. We've all had the demo for quite some time now and we've been itching for them to play ever since. They played their set of all the new songs and even a few old ones. Their entire set was just pure brutality though...I loved it.
 
Overall, this show was the best one we've ever played at. Also, it was probably the best local show in Pittsburgh for a long time. It was a good turn out too, I am guessing about 100 kids overall at least. Thanks to Diggums for putting on a bad ass show.

March 1st, 2002...Phantasy Night Club...Lakewood, OH
One Life Crew, Ringworm, Crowd Deterrent, Dead Wrong, Forever Untouched

After the 3 hour drive of pure boredom, we arrived at the Phantasy Night Club. However, before we went to stand in line...we had to stop at this metal store which was next door. It was called Extreme Musick, and I suggest you all stop by if you're ever in the area. Anyhow, we got into the place and had to stand around for a good 45 minutes before Forever Untouched played. Not many kids there were into this band, but I thought they were bad ass. They sound like a beatdown version of Cryptopsy to me...very tight musically. Not sure why they opened for One Life Crew...but they definitely have something going for them. Dead Wrong from CT took the stage next. They are on Jamie Hatebreed's label...Stillborn Records. The best part is that they actually deserve to be on the label. To me, they sounded like Shutdown meets Integrity. I'm sure everyone has their own version though...very good nonetheless. The next band, Crowd Deterrent, was actually the main reason I came out. I finally got to get my hands on their CD (which rules) so I had to make the drive. They played an insane set and took everyone in the venue by surprise I think. This band should be blowing up very soon. Ringworm was up next, and I have not seen this band in about 2 years. It was good to see them now that I knew all the songs...these guys are a great thrash band from Cleveland if you don't know. They mix thrash and old school hardcore together pretty well if you ask me. Well, after all this wait, One Life Crew was ready to play. At the time of this show, however, I didn't really know many of their songs...I was always more of a Pitboss fan. Well, after this show, I'm still mainly a Pitboss fan. OLC was super serious about shit that didn't even make sense. They said something about predicting 9/11. The music is super hard, but they were hanging out with some street bike gang all night called The Star Boyz and kept throwing stickers out all night that no one wanted. Oh well.
 
Overall this show was great...the drive sucked big time though. We luckily got a hotel room though, so we got to rest up before going home. The drive was worth it though...realized how good Forever Untouched was, found out about Dead Wrong, picked up Crowd Deterrent's CD, and finally got to see Ringworm.

January 26, 2002...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
Comin Correct, Seven Stitches, xRetaliatory Strikex, Silent But Deadly, Anchor, [defenestration]

Well, the show was supposed to start at 5, so we got there at 4:30. The show didnt start until 6:20, and at that time [defenestration] took the stage and played for 40 minutes. Not to be blunt about this or anything, but they sucked. But then again, Im your average 16 year old hardcore scenester who only like Hatebreed. Well, anyhow, Anchor came on afterwards and didnt get off the stage until like 8:10. They were like pop-punk, so I didnt care for them either. The good bands didnt come on until about 8:30. So, basically, we sat there for 4 hours doing nothing at all!!! It sucked to say the least. Well, anyhow, Silent But Deadly played all 3 of their songs. Theyre a great beatdown band with lyrics in the vein of Pitboss 2000 or Nothing Personalfunny stuff. xRetaliatory Strikex played next, but they were under the name xTap Outx for the night. xTap Outx WAS xBattle Cryx, but they had to change their name. HAHA, I know its confusing, so thats why I'll just ignore the fact they played as xTap Outx for one show. But you all know the deal, xRetaliatory Strikex = great SxE old school from Erie. Seven Stitches was the next band to play. It was the first time I got to see this band, and it was a long time waiting. Their style is a tough guy meets metal mix. It has great beatdowns, but it just has that metal sound that makes them sound so evil. To get the whole effect, you should really pick up their CD. Well, after all that wait, Comin Correct decided to finally play. When they did, however, it was great fun. The whole place was pretty much moving during some songs. The pile-ons were insane during certain songs, I got some pretty bad ass pictures. They played a really tight set, and it was somewhat longer than their set the last 3 times Ive seen them.

Overall, the bands I wanted to see played really good sets. It just sucked that we had to sit in waiting for 4 hours. I wish I would've showed up later on during the show.

January 11, 2002...Club Laga...Oakland, PA
Hatebreed, Poison The Well, God Forbid, Throwdown, Sworn Enemy

I'd like to start this off by saying...this was possibly the best show ever at Club Laga. Well, we got there at the show actually started on time! That's a first. Well, Sworn Enemy was stuck opening the show, but everyone was there anyhow. They a curiously short set, but it definitely left us waiting for more. They might have had a more dangerous pit than Hatebreed did that night. I think they played 5 songs + their Domination cover. It was brutal...enough said. Throwdown was up next, and they also played a very short set. They played like 5 songs as well I believe. They, however, didn't impress me. I've seen them a few times before and I thought they were insane. They just sucked at Pittsburgh I think. They didn't play their best songs either, oh well, what can you do? God Forbid was up next, and they tore the place apart. Their CDs are very good and all, but I didn't think it was anything I could dance to. When they played live though, everything seemed like a beatdown. haha. Poison The Well was up next, and I think they just lost a fan. I have never seen them live once where the singer actually sounded good. He always sucks live. Oh well, I don't like em anymore. And then, after about 30 minutes, Hatebreed came on. Holy Shit! The entire place was a warzone...literally. Bodies flying everywhere...the entire time they played (about an hour). It was good times, plus we got to hear some new songs, it was pretty nuts.
 
Overall, this show was one of the funner ones I've been to lately. Fuck the kids who go around and say Hatebreed sold out, Hatebreed always will be one of the best and truest hardcore bands. Only thing I didn't understand is why Sworn Enemy and Throwdown had to play such short sets when there was an empty half an hour between Poison The Well and Hatebreed. Who knows?

December 22, 2001...MIT...Millvale, PA
No Retreat, Endless, Crowd Deterrent, Through The Shadows, Final Stand, Down To None

Even though the show suffered countless line-up changes, it still kicked ass. Strength From Within and Seven Stitches were originally supposed to play, but we managed to pull through with these replacements. We opened the show, but this time, everyone came in and watched. I think that was our best show, but I guess you'd have to ask someone else what they thought. We decided we were going to split our set with Final Stand that night, so they played after us. THey came up and played 5 songs, and completely tore the MIT apart. Final Stand amazes me with their brutality every time I see them. Straight up tough guy...no bullshit about it. Through The Shadows were up next. They might be the best live band from this area. They have three guitar players, two singers, a drummer, and a bass player. Trust me...that makes for a very interesting live show. These guys go completely off while they play their twisted version of metal. This band might be more metal than Slayer, yet they still manage to throw some brutal breakdowns in their music as well. Crowd Deterrent was playing fourth tonight, and they definitely got the most crowd participation of the night. Everywhere they go, the crowd goes nuts. Flying chairs, baseball bats, and guns (haha) were all in effect during their set. They played a short but swet set (as always) and left the stage right after. They're just plain out insane old school hardcore...with the breakdowns to back themselves up. Endless, who was originally supposed to headline, was ready to play. I was happy because they played my request for the song Pride...it got the pit going. Endless is a kick-ass band, but their style just usually doesn't call for any dancing. And now...we got our christmas present. No Retreat made a special surprise appearance. They only played like 6 songs, but man, it doesn't get better than No Retreat. Heaviest tough guy you're ever going to hear...check them out.

Overall, this was the funnest show I've been to in quite a while. The shows at the Millvale Industrial Theater always turn out to be. Best venue in history I say.

December 1, 2001...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
Comin Correct, xLooking Forwardx, xBattle Cryx, Closer Than Dying, Dead And Buried, Season Of Separation

Season Of Separation started the show off with a fistful of metal. Well...the drummer and guitar player did at least. They seemed to be the only ones who took it seriously. The stuff they did play was amazing...too bad the rest of the band turned it into a joke. Oh well, it was fun. Dead And Buried, from Delaware, played second. Their style of metalcore is something you can hear anywhere. I liked them, but the people who complain about unoriginal bands won't. They had some pretty insane breakdowns and they got the pit open wide...good stuff. Closer Than Dying was the third band to play that night...and they stole the show. Last time I saw these guys, they were nothing more than average. This time, however, they kicked my ass. I don't really know how to explain their style, but let's put it this way...you could dance to every part of every song. Yeah, that's what I'm talkin about. xBattle Cryx played fourth and this was probably the best time I have seen them play live. Everyone brought the mosh and then xBCx ended their set with a surprise cover of Firestorm by Earth Crisis. That got crazy. Well, xLooking Forwardx was up next, and they were damn good. They're from Maryland I believe, because they had to drive 7 some horus to get there. Well, it was well worth it. They played mainly old school, but yet they still managed to throw a breakdown in here and there. Comin Correct was finally ready to play and end the show. They opened with the song Comin Correct and had a huge frickin pile-up...it was great. They went through their usual set and ended the night on a high note.

Overall, the show was pretty damn fun. For some reason, I haven't been going to any shitty shows lately. Good luck I suppose. It was funny as hell to see Rick Ta Life get the mic cut on him for swearing so much...he didn't know what was going on.

November 26, 2001...Roboto II...Wilkinsburg, PA
Converge, American Nightmare, The Hope Conspiracy

Why did I waste my 8 dollars on this show? I have no clue. We showed up and were told that there was going to be no re-entrance tonight...so things started off on a bad foot. We get into the place, only to find out that the entire room was packed so that no one could move...even better. Well, enough complaining. The Hope Conspiracy, who was the main band I wanted to see, opened up the show. I've seen them before, I knew their singer has this obsession with people moving up...but I had no idea he was gonna be this annoying! During the entire set, he kept whining for people to move up. Then he started screaming at people to move up. He complained when people didn't fill the pit in and he complained when their wasn't a pit. So fuck him, he was being a dick. That's a shame too...I really like The Hope Conspiracy. American Nightmare played next, but it was too packed so I went and sat in the lobby. They're a good band, but I have no clue why they're so damn popular. Doesn't make sense to me...why half-assed old school makes it over the best old school hardcore...who knows. Converge was finally ready to play, and I was thankful. Everyone smashed up front to get close to the stage, so I just sat back and watched them from a distance. Converge = Amazing. I think they're an awesome band, I just wasn't in the mood for dancing. I would much rather just listen to them play anyhow.

Overall, this show sucked. The Hope Conspiracy singer was being a cock and American Nightmare got really old. Only high points were Converge and the fact that Thrice cancelled. Good thing...I wouldn't have been able to sit through them that night.

November 12, 2001...Club Laga...Pittsburgh, PA
Zao, Shai Hulud, Unearth, Sworn Enemy, Broken Free

Well, I'm gonna be honest...the only reason I went to this show is because it was Broken Free's last show with their original line-up. I really don't care for the rest of the band (minus Sworn Enemy). I like Zao, Shai Hulud, and Unearth...but I could go without seeing them live. Oh well, on to the review. Broken Free opened and played their last show with Bill on guitar and Trey on vocals. It was cool to see them play all the old songs as well as their new ones. Sworn Enemy played next and they set shit off for the night. Unearth played third, and were surprisingly tight as hell. I like Unearth, but I figured I would just sit back and relax during their set. When they'd bust into their breakdowns, I just couldn't resist the mosh. They're probably one of the best "metalcore" bands going today...good stuff. Shai Hulud went on next and disappointed me big time. I don't know, I don't like them that much, but I figured they'd be really godo live considering all the hype they get. Zao was ready to headline, and the crowd was ready to watch. All I can say is that during the first 5 songs...the pit was a warzone. I couldn't believe how many kids were going off. After that though, it got kind of boring. The best part of their set was seeing Dan (original singer) come up on stage and sing a song with them...classic.

Overall, the show was pretty fun (like all the others). I don't really like shows at Laga because....I don't know. haha. They just don't seem right. Oh well, it was fun to catch up with all my friends.

November 10, 2001...Roboto II...Wilkinsburg, PA
Comin' Correct, Crowd Deterrent, My Drunk Uncle, Strength From Within, Down To None

Wow...our third show back and we get to open for Comin Correct. We're damn lucky. Anyhow, we played to pretty much an entirely new crowd that night. I think some of them liked us...couldn't tell though. I was glad to see Rick Ta Life checking us out on our last song. Anyhow, we split our set with Strength From Within that night. They played 4 songs after we were done and tore shit up as usual. You guys better keep a look out for this band...there's some good shit happening. Well, after both of us played, My Drunk Uncle took the stage. They have an original style of punk that I haven't heard anyone playing. I thought they kicked some serious ass...but I couldn't dance or anything...they were a punk. Good shit though...thanks to Brandon (their singer) for putting the show on. Well, when they were done, Crowd Deterrent played a show 12 min set and turned Roboto II into a warzone. Damn, these guys are good. They're straight up insane old school hardcore...plus breakdowns. This is another band that is gonna be fucking shit up big time pretty soon. Comin Correct was finally ready to play their set. They played alot of new songs off of "In Memory Of...". To be honest, I think these songs sound alot like 25 Ta Life. I like that though, because I always liked 25 Ta Life over Comin Correct anyhow. But then they busted out the old classics, Strength Through Unity, and a couple covers from 7 Seconds, Iron Cross, and Warzone. It's always good fun to see Comin Correct tear shit up.

Overall, the show was pretty good. I was glad to see the hardcore crowd and the Roboto crowd get along with no fights. Thanks again to Brandon from My Drunk Uncle for letting us play at the show. And by the way...fuck all you who didn't have the respect to watch My Drunk Uncle. Like you couldn't wait 15 minutes to look at Rick's distro.

November 3, 2001...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
No Retreat, Redline, Strength From Within, xBattle Cryx, Meant To Die, Down To None

The second day of our weekend with No Retreat and Strength From Within started off pretty good. Even though the PA decided to blow up right before we started...we did a decent job. The kids up there seemed to like it...mainly our old school parts though. Well, after we were done, Meant To Die played. Everyone up in that area knows the guys by now I think, and everyone seems to like them. Meant To Die is a NIV-style hardcore band from Youngstown, OH..check out their CD if you ever find it. xBattle Cryx was up next and started off their set with some Enter Sandman...good shit. They broke into their set and ended it with Straight Edge Pride. They got alot of people moving towards the end. Strength From Within played 4th and had a decently short set. I was surprised to see how many kids knew who they were up there. Well, Redline was ready to play. Man, they sure did hit Edinboro pretty unexpectedly. Redline fucking kill it if you ask me. They earned everyone's respect who saw them up there. Much respect to them because they drove 7 hours to get there...each way. Thanks again to Redline. No Retreat finished off the night again and played mostly older stuff for all the kids who have Rise Of The Underdog. Everyone up there seemed to appreciate them...it was good to see they all liked the bands.

Overall, the show was fun as hell. I was glad to see everyone up there was accepting to the new bands. I lost a shit load of cash...mainly due to some awesome people who were working the door for me who decided to let half the show in for free.

November 2, 2001...MIT...Millvale, PA
No Retreat, Strength From Within, Gas Chamber, Down To None

So, the show started off about an hour and a half late because we didn't have a guitar amp to use. We finally got our hands on one and started the show. We figured no one would bother to watch us at MIT, but surprisingly they did. We were pretty much amazed people liked us. Gas Chamber took the stage shortly after us and thrashed the hell out of everyone. Gas Chamber is about the only band I know of today who is still WRITING thrash music. These guys are great...think of Kill Em All meets Show No Mercy. Strength From Within damn near started World War III when they started playing...or at the least the pit looked like it. It was a fucking warzone for the first few songs. Glad to see everyone at MIT liked them. No Retreat, the band everyone was waiting for, tore shit up as they always do. It was their first show at MIT for quite some time and everyone seemed to miss them. They played the usual set, but then played a new song at the end...look forward to some crazy shit coming out from these guys.

Overall, the show was awesome. We were glad to get to play to our hometown crowd. This show was one of the best shows MIT has seen in a long time...thanks to Bryan for setting it up.

October 28, 2001...Nyabinghi...Youngstown, OH
Pitboss 2000, Comin' Correct, Crowd Deterrent, xBattle Cryx

Well, the show didn't get started until about an hour after it was supposed to. xBattle Cryx got lost on their way from Erie, so we didn't get started until about 7. The second they walked in the door, they got on stage and ripped through their set. All I can say is, that they played a lot of interesting covers. It was fun to hear some of them. Anyhow, right after xBattle Cryx got off the stage, Crowd Deterrent played their 3 song set. Once again, their drummer couldn't make it to the show, so they had the replacement drummer again. It was pure insanity when they played though. Well, after Crowd Deterrent was done, Comin Correct showed up and played their set. It was fun as hell and they played a couple of their new songs. They were heavier than previous Comin Correct attempts; it sounded more like 25 Ta Life. Well, anyhow, they ended their set with a cover of Crucified. Pitboss 2000 was up next. This was their first show back after being broken up for a few months. Well, as expected, they managed to offend quite a few people, but it was funny as hell. They are quite possibly the funniest band in hardcore...ever. It was cool at the end when they did their little metal outro and the bass player completely smashed his bass.

Overall, the show was one of the best I've been to. It was my first time out to Youngstown for a show, and now I wish I wouldve went to some other shows there.

October 20, 2001...Becky Sheetz Building...Altoona, PA
Redline, Final Stand, By Any Means Necessary, Rival With Honor, Thy Ruins Approach

Well, we got to the place late, and we definitely regretted it. We walked in to see Thy Ruins Approach finish up their set. We only got to see a few songs. The only way I can describe it is bizarre kids playing bizarre music ... and I love it. By Any Means Necessary played next, and they played a pretty tight set even though their singer wasn't there. They pulled it off rather well with just the bass player singing. Rival With Honor played next. There is something about them that I don't like. Anyhow, Redline played next because the Final Stand guitar player wasnt there yet. They ripped the place apart even though half the crowd left after Rival With Honor played. The unexpected cover of Raining Blood was the highlight of the night. Slayer covers never gets old. Final Stand was finally ready to play after Redline was done with their set. They played their usual set, but added a new song that they had just written...and it KILLS. Might be one of their best songs yet.

Overall, the show was OK. Getting to hang out with Redline and Final Stand after the show made up for it though. They are both really cool bands.

Oct 12th...CD Warehouse...Greensburg, PA
Final Stand, Strength From Within, Negative Theory, D.F.S.

Through all the struggles with the staff of the CD Warehouse that night, the show still went on. The show got started around 9 PM, even though the staff threatened the show wasnt going to happen. Anyhow, the first band to play was a punk band who had a definite Misfits sound to them. The crowd wasn't moving much, but I still got into their songs. By their songs, I mean their own songs, not their cover songs. Their songs are definitely good ones, but they really should drop the covers. The second band was Negative Theory, an extremely heavy doom metal band from the Pittsburgh area. They tore shit up when they played. Their bass head broke during their set, so they only played 4 songs, but they were definitely 4 songs that were enjoyed. Realizing that there wasn't much time left, Strength From Within decided to cut a song. They played about 5 songs and the crowd flipped out the whole time. They're thugcore from the Cranberry area, which can be described as a heavier Krutch at times. After SFW tore the place up, Final Stand took the stage. They played through 9 songs and didn't leave much left after they were done. The crowd flipped out when they played. At times, it seemed as if everyone there was dancing. If you're looking for some good beatdown hardcore, check out Final Stand.

Overall, the show was fun. About 50 kids were there total, and it was a fun show. Even though I lost 60 bucks on the show, it was still fun to have everyone there for my first show.

Oct 10th...MIT...Millvale, PA
Sworn Enemy, Endless, Negative Theory

Well, the show started late, as it always does at MIT, but it was fun nonetheless. It sucked at first though, because we realized Through It All wasn't going to show up. I still don't know what happened with why they didnt come, but I was pissed I didnt get to see them. Anyhow, Negative Theory took the stage first and tore the place up. People weren't really dancing, but they're a metal band for the most part, so what can you expect? They're doom metal for the most part, but they do have some breakdowns in some songs. After Negative Theory was done, Endless took the stage. In case some of you dont know, Endless is an old school crossover band in the vein of Sick Of It All. Their original drummer, who had to quit due to Carpal Tunnels Syndrome, played a few songs with them, so it was good to see that. Finally, the band everyone was ready to see, Sworn Enemy took the stage. They definitely have that stage presence that you can feel. When they started their set, the pit started immediately. At some points, the entire crowd at MIT was moving...it was great.

Overall, this show was fun. I was disappointed that Through It All didnt show up though. And it made the show seem really short. But who cares, it was still a fun time.

Sept 29th...The Hangout...Edinboro, PA
Asherah, Through It All, xBattle Cryx, Crowd Deterrent, Meant To Die

Meant To Die took the stage and played to about 40 kids. They are from Youngstown, OH and are pretty much an old school hardcore band. They played their shit for about 15-20 min, and then they busted out a cover song. That song was CEB by No Innocent Victim. The kids were dancin' like madmen when they played the song...it was fun to see. Shortly after Meant To Die was done, Crowd Deterrent took the stage. Well, if you wanted to call them Crowd Deterrent. Some of the band couldnt make it to the show, so some of the members of Meant To Die learned two Crowd Deterrent songs to play. They played Middle Ground and Everybody Bleeds...it was the best part of the show. Half the place was dancing, and it was all out war for the 5 minutes that they played. After everyone calmed down, xBattle Cryx started their set. This was actually the first time I've gotten to see them, even though they've played a million shows around here. They are Erie, PA's answer to old school straight edge. They played about 8 songs. Through It All took the stage next, and I wasn't sure what to expect. They played for about a half an hour, but they definitely earned my respect by the end of it. If you don't know, Through It All is a combination of old school hardcore and 80s thrash. They combined those elements to make some of the catchier hardcore songs I've heard. They seemed to be having a great time on stage and it made everyone else have one as well. They even covered SOD - United Forces...which made me a happy guy. Well, after Through It All was done, Asherah took the stage. Regretfully, a lot of the crowd had left after Through It All, and not too many people stayed for Asherah. I stayed, however, and had a good time. Asherah is a Prayer For Cleansing type metalcore band who have some pretty hard breakdowns. They were pretty good and didnt give me anything to complain out.

Overall, the show was fun and I got to talk to all my friends up that way. It sucked only 40 kids came out though, the show deserved more kids to come than that.

September 23, 2001...Fair Grounds Community Center...Clearfield, PA
Stronger Than Hate, 969, Final Stand, Behind The Sun, By Any Means Necessary, D.F.S., Down To None

The show was early on a Sunday morning, so the crowd was pretty much dead until Behind The Sun played. Well, we opened the show. We seemed to keep everyone's attention throughout our set, so they might've liked us. I guess you'd have to ask someone who was there for an opinion. Well, DFS played after us, and they are like a complete Misfits-worship band. Played with the lights out and fog machines and all that kinda stuff. I liked them though, I just think they should cut their cover songs and play all original material. By Any Means Necessary played next and I had a good time dancing to them. The PA system decided to die on them at the end of their set, so we didn't get a good listen to their new material. Behind The Sun, from NJ, played an emotion-packed set. They pretty much tore the place apart and had the craziest pits of the day. Theyre a metalcore band with brutal breakdowns and pieces of emo in their sound. It's pretty good shit, you should check it out. Final Stand played next and everyone dancing had a good time. They ripped shit up, like they always do, but it was fun to see them playing in their hometown. Well, after they were done, 969 played and it was my first time seeing them. Theyve been around forever, but the music is just cool to listen to. Well, after they played, the rest of my band decided to be bitches and throw a fit about going home. So, I had to miss Stronger Than Hate's last show.

Overall, the show was fun. I was glad to see people didnt hate us at least. No one danced, but what can you can expect at noon on a Sunday. The show was fun even though I had to miss Stronger Than Hate.

July 28, 2001...MIT...Millvale, PA
Hatebreed, E-Town Concrete, Sworn Enemy, No Retreat, Broken Free, Final Stand

The show started off with Final Stand. They weren't on the bill, but they split their set with Broken Free. This was the first time I had heard them. I didn't even know they existed. But holy shit...they were good. They're one of my favorite bands now. Well, after Final Stand was done, Broken Free played their set. It was only 5 songs, but it sure was good. They keep getting better every time I see them. They're like melodic metalcore I guess you could call it...but it's very original. Well, after those two were done, No Retreat was taking the stage. No Retreat never ceases to amaze me. After No Retreat was done, Sworn Enemy came to the stage and were welcomed with plenty of mosh. If you don't know who Sworn Enemy is, they're from Queens, NY and are on Stillborn Records. After them, E-Town Concrete took the stage. I never liked them until the last time I saw them open for Hatebreed. After that show, I became obsessed with them. No one can compare to their sound...it's completely original. They originally weren't supposed to play, but they came straight from OzzFest that day to play MIT. So, for any of you out there who says "Hatebreed sold out"...think again.

Overall, this show was one of the best shows Ive been to. Finding out who Final Stand was a pleasant surprise. Seeing No Retreat and Broken Free is always fun and getting to see Sworn Enemy and E-Town Concrete again was awesome as well.

June 27, 2001...Forward Hall...Erie, PA
Throwdown, Martyr AD, Problem Solver Revolver, Never Say Never, Plain View

Well, I didn't bother to come to the show until after the first two bands were done. Pop Punk is just not my thing...at all. Well, first band I watched was PSR. They ripped shit apart...their new songs were heavy as hell too. The pit was in full effect too; it was a fun time. Well, Martyr AD played next. Holy Shit! Martyr AD is simply one of the most brutal bands ever. They completely kill everything else you'll hear. Every song they ever wrote is 100% bad ass. Well, while I was completely flipping out in the pit, I managed to get knocked out...literally. Yeah, it sucked...but I can't think of a better band to get knocked out to. Well, I came back to consciousness while they were on their last song. I was pissed that I missed two of their songs. Well, Throwdown was finally playing now, and shit was pretty crazy. I tried dancing but I just couldn't. So I just sat and watched them...first time doing that. Well, Throwdown was good and you all know who they are, so theres no need to describe them.

Overall, the show was short, but fun. I'm glad I didn't have to watch the first two bands, because there's just no way I can listen to that shit. The show was fun even though I managed to get knocked out.

June 2, 2001...Forward Hall...Erie, PA
Poison The Well, Every Time I Die, Simple Lies, Santa Sangre, Until The End

First band of the night, Until The End, completely stole the fucking show. There is no one more intense than their live show. They are a really pissed off band. Santa Sangre played second and they were pretty good. They're pretty much a metal band, but I guess you'd have to hear them for yourselves to understand their sound. Simple Lies were on third, and they really surprised me. I honestly wasn't expecting much from them, but they sounded very tight. They had a Dillinger Escape Plan sound to them I suppose. Well, after they played, Every Time I Die played. They're alright...I honestly don't see what the huge hype about them is for. But, I guess they're doing something right if everyone likes them. Poison The Well was up last. I actually like Poison The Well, but I just don't understand why kids feel the urge to punch each other whenever the song Nerdy is playing.

Overall, the show was a pretty good one. Until The End is becoming one of my favorite bands and Santa Sangre definitely surprised me.