11-10 Sincerity Fest, Pittsburgh @Springdale Fire Hall

Sincerity Fest is something that has been going on in the Pittsburgh area yearly for some time now. I always try to go if I can. This year was by far the best lineup I've ever seen for the fest. Some real bangers were on the lineup and I was stoked for the entire day.

However, we didn't make it there by noon. Sucks but we still made decent time getting there.

Breach - Missed them.
No Reason To Live - Missed them. I'd have liked to see them too.
Pray For Teeth - Missed them. I've seen them a handfull of times. Good band, but I'm not upset.
Adventures - Missed them. I really really like this band.
Steel City Firm - Missed them. They seem really heavy when I stream it and I'd like to see them live.

Liotta - This is the first band we saw. I was expecting them to be a hardcore band. But they're a semicrappy pop punk band in the style of Title Fight but a bit softer. I enjoyed them, I was ready for music. No violence. Not many real good songs. I don't think I'll go to any shows wanting to see them specifically. Some people there seemed to really enjoy the set.

Another Mistake - Good heavy band. I thought the singer was especially entertaining. I'm not sure if their lyrics are any good, but the beat was. The first mosh I was present for happened here. I'd go see this band again.

Pity Sex - More crappy poppunk. I didn't think this band was that good at all. Pretty similar to Liotta, but somehow not as good. Maybe I need to check out their recordings.

Wrong Answer - Very good band. They brought the tough hardcore and people got their mosh on. It was especially good. The last song was a true banger. In my opinion they were the third best band of the day.

Homewrecker - So they were supposed to play earlier in the day, and I was completely there in time just to see them. They were late. Then later. Then later. So we bounced for a little bit and inadvertently missed them. Sucks balls. I was more excited to see them than any other band other than Steel Nation.

We The Gathered - Missed them. I saw them on the Earth Crisis show and thought they weren't very good.

Complete Failure - Missed them. I've seen them a bunch of times and they're super heavy but not exactly a great live show. Not mad that I missed them.

Full Of Hell - Sweet band. By my recollection the fourth best of the day. They're not a beatdown band by any means. They're a breed of new hardcore like Heartless and Dead in the Dirt. Kinda spazzy, heavy, a lot faster. Good band.

Unit 731 - They brought the beatdown like they always bring the beatdown. The mosh was in high gear. A member of their band looked just like Chauder Man, which was funny. I enjoyed the set, I usually don't so much.

Hollow Earth - All I've ever heard about this band is that they're good. I agree. I suspect that their lyrics are political, which makes me like them even more. They were heavy, but not so catchy.

Steel Nation - Ripped it the fuck up. I very much enjoyed the set. They played a new song that sounded killer. They played most of their set from Forever Wounded. The mosh was on. Everything was kick ass across the board. The band of the night by far.

Trial - Excellent set. I was slightly disappointed because I was only half real into what the singer talked about during his rants. But I enjoy the rants none the less. Played a ton of good songs from the full length. Great band. I'm going to listen more to the entire full length.

Code Orange Kids - Missed them. I left before they played. It was a long day and I only moderately like the band. Not upset.

Hi's - Steel Nation, Trial, Wrong Answer, Full of Hell, GREAT veggie burgers and chili.
Low's - Not a whole lot at all. I guess the lack of a drinking venue is something but it would probably change the dynamic of the fest.

11-3 Epica, Alestorm, Insomnium, System Divide, Pittsburgh @Altar Bar

Pre-show last night I hadn't heard any of the other bands other than Alestorm. Expected it to be a debauchery of nu-metalcore nu-metal or some other bullshit. I was pretty much right.

Right off the bat Epica left me with a bad taste in my mouth because they kicked all the local openers off the bill. A few bands like Second Empire and Deathlehem were supposed to play, but at Epica's request the only bands that played were the touring bands they brought with them. That's just some rockstar shit, all I'm saying.

All in all turnout seemed really good. I'm thinking there were around 200 people there. Maybe 250. So I'm sure the promoter cleaned up on that one. Let's assume everyone paid $25 for the presale price and no one got the $27 at the door, or the $60 VIP whatever the fuck that is. 25 x 200 = 5000. That's a lot of cheese and if this metal tour cost more than that to bring through, that's fucked up.

System Divide - Boy did this band suck. They were on some tough metalcore shit brought to you by some bald guy, then some chic would sing some shit. For one I didn't like the way the chic was wiggling around on stage. She wasn't banging the head right. So they're fucking up right there. Then the songs are all confused, are they tough? Are they wimpy? They had no identity. Some 105.9 the X faux-underground bullshit metal. That's what I call it. We only stayed to watch two songs of theirs because of how bad it was. It looked like some people liked it. I think I disliked this band about as much as I've ever disliked a band before.

I have a serious accusation against System Divide that gets it's own paragraph here due to the nature of the allegation. I think both singers for System Divide were singing over a track, or completely lip-syncing. Let me explain the allegation farther. During the second song, which is the last song I saw of theirs, the dude singer was growling some shit and I guess he did something bad with the mic and it squealed at him in the middle of him singing. He took the mic away from his face and looked to the right, presumably at his sound guy, all pissed off. When the mic was away from his face, his lips weren't moving to the music (they were like what the fuck), there was no mic there to catch the vibrations if he had been, but the vocals to that song were still going. The mishap was only noticeable for two seconds, but it made me start to pay very close attention. That's when I noticed that there was something wrong with the chic's singing too. So, to clarify the allegation, here is what I think happened last night: System Divide played over a track. 75% of the sound we heard was a cd, 25% was the actual band. I know the microphones and shit were on because of the squeal, but I also know for a fact there was a track playing because I heard the singer singing when there was no singing being sung. Make sense? /rant

Insomnium - This band brought more of a respectable sound to the stage. Where the first band was some radio metal shit, this band was a little too heavy and too metal for the average Pittsburgh metal fan. I don't know which subgenre of metal I'd classify them as. But they weren't any one traditional style, but a mixture of things. It was nice that there was no nice singing involved and all the guys were fat metalheads. We watched 2 songs. While they were much better than the first band, still not worth my time.

Alestorm - I was all amped up for this and Alestorm didn't let me down. A few funny things happened right off the bat. This band is from Perth, Scotland. I'm pretty sure they announced right off the bat that they are Alestorm from Sacramento California. I'm not sure what that was about, but it was an interesting start. Second immediate observation of humor, their guitarist is a midget. It's true. We were hoping there would be a midget being funny, and they one upped us by having a midget in the band. And the lead singer is barely taller than the midget himself. The keytar was in effect. The singer was wearing a Pittsburgh Pirates shirt, which was the obvious choice that evening. The midget was wearing a Deathlehem shirt, that's one of the local bands that got kicked off. It makes me happy to think that they're not getting along well with Epica because of their rock star persona. Anyway I think the set only consisted of 9 songs. The Sunk'n Norwegian, Shipwrecked, Leviathan, Rum, Death Throes of the Terrorsquid, Nancy's Harbor Cafe, Captain Morgans Revenge, Keelhauled, and Pirate Song. It was great. I'd go see Alestorm again for $25.

Epica - This band sucks. One looooooong song in, we left. The chic singer sure can sing real nice, but that doesn't do shit for anyone when the songs suck. Some rock star metal fucks. Glad I had the foresight to leave before that set got real embarrassing.

All in all the evening was enjoyable for many of the same reasons it was not enjoyable, the fans. Radio metal fans are idiots. This guy who was up in front of me, a little short fuck with a ponytail was looking all pissed off whenever someone would bump him during Alestorm. That fucker was turned around facing me more than he was the stage. So of course any time I had the opportunity to push someone into him I gave him an extra hard shove. Fuck that idiot and fuck everyone else there who probably like shim. But we did have a grand time goofing on everyone and everything.

Hi's - Alestorm, idiots, inebriation
Low's - All the other bands, idiots, the price

10-14-2012 Converge, Torche, Kvelertak, Pittsburgh @Altar Bar

Going into this show I hadn't heard any of Converge's new cd, but I figured it'd be a ripper. The other two bands were pretty new to me.

The weather was good this night, a perfect night for hardcore and metal.

Kvelertak - This band was pretty good. Some of my friends thought they were pretty butt, but I thought they represented metal pretty well. Good performance. I'd like to see them again.

Torche - This band sucks. They reminded me of a heavier Creed or something. They also played forever. I watched a few songs and listened to the rest from outside. Will not see again, I hope.

Converge - They didn't play many old songs, but still ripped it up. Dark Horse is an awesome song. The crowd was real into it. Probably the best Converge show in Pittsburgh that I've been to.

I like the Altar Bar for some shows, less for others. This show I'd have rather seen somewhere else that is a little bit shittier.

Hi's - Converge, Kvelertak, weather
Low's - Torche, expensive beer

10-7 Propaghandi, Comeback Kid, The Catastrophe, Worlds Scariest Police Chases, Pittsburgh @Altar Bar

We were super stoked for this show. Propagandhi doesn't tour through these parts much, so seeing them was a treat. I've been listening to them since about 2000 and every album is pretty solid. The show was $20 I think, which is usually a little bit steep by punk standards, but going into the investment I felt it would be worth it.

Also on the same night was a CDC wig-mosh show going on at the Ironworks. I'm not sure why they'd schedule CDC to play here on the same night as Comeback Kid is playing a big show. It's people like me they want to draw there. The gangster mosh people are going to CDC anyway, but I'd only go if there wasn't anything better to do. So Propagandhi and Comeback Kid got my cheese without any contest.

Worlds Scariest Police Chases - Pop punk hardcore punk kinda deal. They all dress up like Police officers kinda. Well, they at least wear badges. Either way their set was real fun. The lead singer has a cockyness to him, though it seems to be part of the show.

The Catastrophe - I was hoping for a decent band. But this band wasn't decent. We watched three songs then went outside for beer. Pretty boring to watch. And the appearance of the lead singer was a turn off for me. He looked like a frat boy or something.

At this point in the night the crowd really started filling up. I especially dislike how the Altar Bar has those fucking benches segregating the 21+ from the all ages portion. It's just that those benches take up a lot of floor space and are intrusive to the show experience.

Comeback Kid - Ripped shit up. Some people say they sound like Linkin Park but I don't get that at all from them. They played a few songs more from the newest release Symptoms + Cures than I expected. But that is ok. The new album is pretty good and the set was very very good. Great energy. Good punk pitting. The setlist was solid and I'll go see Comeback Kid every chance I get.

Is it the bands or the promoters that make the time period between the headliner and the band before absurdly long?

Propagandhi - Killed it. It was the best punx show I've been to in a while. The biggest sticking point with me was the lack of material played off of Todays Empires Tomorrows Ashes. They only played Fuck the Border from that particular release. However, the songs from Supporting Caste are bangers, especially Night Letters. Great set. Played for a little over an hour. Well worth $20 alone.

I'm thinking there were somewhere around 300 people in the building. I liked everything about the show other than the Catastrophe and the $6 I spent on a tall can of PBR. There was also somewhat of a fight during Propagandhi. Idiots. I'm sure they settled that score. :/

Hi's - Prop, CBK, turnout, choosing this show over the alternative

Low's - It was pretty cold out, $20 though it was worth it

9-18-2012 Ceremony, Dead Regrets, Rabid Pigs, Pittsburgh @Smiling Moose

It's not often I buy tickets beforehand, but for this show me and my peeps arrived with tix in hand. It ended up not being necessary, but I'm glad I could support Rabid Pigs in that respect anyways. So before the show, pizza, beer, bam. New parking spot in the lot on 18th.

At the beginning of the show I was concerned about turnout. It ended up being ok. I suspect that around 65 people paid. Probably around 80 people in the room including the bands. That's not great, but I'm thinking the promoter didn't lose money on the deal.

Rabid Pigs - They opened up this 3 band show. Fast hardcore power violence. They played well. Equally as well as they've played at the last few Roboto shows. I think I've determined that I've seen them at their best. The show where they had the "I am no feeble Christ, no, not me" intro was their best set. But they played well on this night. Played the I Hate You cover, not the Infest cover, much to my dismay. Ended up being the best local band of the night.

Dead Regret - This band wasn't very good. I'm sure all three of these guys are swell dudes, but their band wasn't entertaining nor good. I'm not even sure what sub-genre of hardcore I'd classify them as. Maybe 'middle of the road hardcore.' Whatever that means. They didn't have a lot of beatdown. Not a lot of thrash. Not a whole lot of fast parts. No sing alongs. I don't think their being on a show will ever determine my being in attendance. Next time I'll probably drink a beer instead of subjecting myself to that.

Ceremony - Killed shit. First off their singer is one of the best frontmen in hardcore. He's entertaining as shit. His use of the mic stand. The way he moves and his expressions are so strange. They played lots off the two most recent releases. Zoo is such a deviance from their classic sound. I'm not sure what direction they're really heading in, but weirdo punk seems to be their thing now. The Doldrums was great. Sick is one of my new favorite songs in the world. Great set. Great energy. Great everything. Ceremony rules.

So I've been thinking a lot about the 4 crusties who were there. I don't care about them one way or another in reference to my preference of their being there, however I can't stop wondering if they paid to get in. Normally crusties don't ever have $10 because that's what happens when you don't have a job and are homeless and all that. Let alone for 4 crusties to have $40 combined. They stunk and were filthy. I don't mind, but I'm sure someone did. I do mind if they didn't pay. The Smiling Moose is usually pretty tight at the doors, so I'm thinking they got in legitimately somehow.

Hi's - turnout, Ceremony, Primantis
Low's - Stanky crusty asshole who was standing on the soap box right in front of the stage most of the Ceremony set.

9-13 Dying, Adventures, Rabid Pigs, Glass Lungs, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

We left home too early. Spent a few hours in Primantis eating pizza and drinking and playing pool.

I'd never listened to any of the bands on the bill except Rabid Pigs but had hoped good things. This show was put together last second for the touring band. Turnout is usually not good for shows scheduled a week before happening. I'd say probably 25 people paid at the door. 40 people in the room including local bands.

Glass Lungs - Screamo hardcore from Pittsburgh. They weren't very good. I don't listen to a lot of their type of hardcore, so maybe they were awesome and I just think they suck. It seemed like most of the people there thought they weren't very good.

Rabid Pigs - Fast hardcore powerviolence. They're good. I like watching this band. Didn't know the first cover, did they say it was a Punch Your Face cover? I don't remember. I knew the Infest cover though. Great song. I'm thinking they'll play it also at the Ceremony show.

Dying - Touring band from Philly. Has a dude in it from Pittsburgh bands of the past. They were very heavy, very agressive vegan xxx hardcore. I enjoyed them a lot. Good head nodding stuff in the vein of Heartless.

Adventures - They're billed as emo/indie but I'd say lots of bands billed as hardcore bands sound similar to them. Adventures is heavier than Lifetime. Something like Title Fight. The vocals didn't come across very well, per Roboto syndrome. I'd still really like to see them again in a place with better sound setup.

Hi's - hanging out, Dying and Adventures and Rabid Pigs, getting the rest of the crew their Ceremony tix cuz that show's going to be cool as fuck.

Low's - turnout, being so early but it ended up being ok

9-3 Salvation, Holy Life, Trogpite, Manson Girls, Pittsburgh @Helter Shelter/Sharon Tate Estate/Spahn Ranch

I have seen Salvation before, so I was looking forward to their fast hardcore punk. The rest of the bands were new to me, and local. A day before the show, local band Torn Off got onto the bill. The show had to be executed in a small time frame because by 10 it had to be done with. It was billed as the last show ever at the Helter Shelter/Spahn Ranch/Sharon Tate Estate so I knew there was the opportunity for some chaos.

Torn Off - Sweet ass band. I'd never heard of them before, but during the set they said they have several recordings and are coming out with something new. Very screamy vocals, but the singer was massively entertaining. All the songs were about killing yourself or someone else, it seemed. Heavy and fast 3 piece. No bass guitar. I'd love to see Torn Off again.

Manson Girls - Two people playing noise/no wave/minimalist beats. No bass here either, and no vocals. It was pretty boring. Basically a steady drum beat with a steady guitar rythm for 4 songs, then she put the guitar down and fucked around making noise with guitar peddles. It was pretty butt.

Trogpite - This guy was about to put on some dj dance music noise shit most likely. We didn't watch that debauchery.

Holy Life - They were ok. Fast hardcore punk with no beatdowns and not enough head nod. Ex-members of a bunch of Pittsburgh bands. They just weren't very good.

Salvation - KILLED IT. This set was so fun. Unfortunately I was the first to spill beer on the floor. Then people smashed glass bottles on the floor. Then they ripped the particle board off the walls. Then they ripped the frames off the walls and tried to knock down the ceiling fans with it. It was madness. As for the band, they were amazing. Fast get low two step style hardcore in the traditional Youth Attack Records vein. The vocals weren't loud enough, but the set was still very energetic. The crowd was more of a punk crowd than a hardcore crowd, but they were into it too. A little bit too much perhaps. During Salvation's last song some punks ripped the electric outlet out of the wall causing a massive spark and a power outage. End of set.

By the end of the night there was blood all over the floors. Broken glass everywhere. No power for most of the room. No walls. Garbage everywhere. Goodnight punk house.

I'd say at the maximum point there were 40 people there.

Hi's - the destruction, Salvation and Torn Off, drinking and gettin chilly
Low's - the house was destroyed before Salvation was done, the stench outside for the beginning of the show, turnout could have been stronger

8-31 Dead in the Dirt, Heartless, Hounds of Hate, Pray for Teeth, Rabid Pigs, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

Going into the show I was expecting averageness. I got a little bit better than that form pretty much every band.

Rabid Pigs - I loved the Jesus hating intro. I'm not sure where it comes from, maybe a Crass song or something. But it's the same thing Crucial Unit used as an intro to their live set on the radio. Powerviolence. They covered Infest. Good set. Glad they played so I could buy Ceremony tickets.

Pray for Teeth - I enjoy the Old Accusers, but not this band so much. They kinda suck. Real heavy and weird kinda. But I just dont think they're very good. Spent most of the set drinking.

Hounds of Hate - Big time surprised. Fast in the vein of Floorpunch or something like that. The mosh was good. The tunes were good. Billed as a rock band, they're more like a fast hardcore band for sure.

Dead in the Dirt - I was moderately excited to see this band going into the show. But I should have known what I was about to get into. The few songs of theirs I know, I couldn't tell if they played them or not. Hah. To super enjoy this band I need a setlist and like 6 months of listening to the new album. They had good energy. Heavy, at times "grindy", fast hardcore. Not too much beatdown.

Heartless - Super good. The best I've seen them. They've got so much better in the last few years from their first show. I enjoyed the shit out of the set even though I don't know any of the songs. Very nice. Pittsburgh bringin it.

Hi's - turnout, Ceremony tickets, decent shoutouts like Fuck Christians.
Low's - not too much

8-25 Sickoids, Narcs, Slices, Crazy Scorpion Group, Skull Fest the band, Cognitive Dissonance, Pittsburgh @the Shop

Rational Animals was supposed to play this show. They cancelled so that was a little letdown. Going into the show they were my fav band on the bill. Oh well, as it turned out, everyone made up for their absence.

This show was billed as a mutant punk block party. That's pretty much what it ended up as. The alleyway was blocked off for one block and it was littered with crusties, punks, dogs, and other all night. It was nice.

Cognitive Dissonance - This band wasn't supposed to play, but they jumped on the show anyway. From Massachusetts. I loved the poor quality of the singing. After a few songs it occurred to me that the poor singing was really great singing. Metal punks. They had some super good riffs, and the one song the drummer got real metal on some shit and it was very good. I'd like to see this band again. It would end up that this was the most metal band on the bill.

Crazy Scorpion Group - The last time I saw this band I think I misinterpreted the lead singer. He looks like he doesn't give a shit about much of anything. I'm still under that impression, however I think that's part of his shtick. I liked this band better this time than last time, but they were still the worst group on the bill.

Slices - Killed it. The crowd was into it. They played like 6 to 8 songs. It was a rager for sure. The singer is so entertaining because of his strange antics and the way he sulks around. Very good set, I like them more every time I see them. Weird guy hardcore punk. Fast, melodic, nothing too metal or too heavy.

Skullfest the Band - This group was made up of guys from Slices and about 500 other Pittsburgh bands. It was cool. They either played a bunch of covers or just ripped off a bunch of older punk songs. Either way it was entertaining.

Narcs - This band was real cool and real good. They were punks who all wore police hats. They were probably the most strait up punk band on the bill. They professed their hatred for metal. The crowd was the most thin, and the most violent for this band. Not sure why it was the way it was, but who cares. The band slayed it, ripping through like 10 songs. I enjoyed their persona and songs very much.

Sickoids - The best band of the night. Their songs are hardcore punk bangers. Fast and faster. No breakdowns or anything. Very screamy. Had I more money I'd have picked up a shirt or something. I'll for sure go out of my way to see this band again. The crowd was into it from beginning to end.

So at the same time as this show, there was a show going on at Kopecs down the road. It was Appalachian Terror Unit, who is a bigger band than Sickoids. I haven't heard how that show went, but the turnout at the Shop was great.

Hi's - turnout, the fun, the drinks, the stink
Low's - nothing

8-23 Zomboy, Arion, RSK, Doverspike, Pittsburgh @Rex Theater

It's been years since I was at a rave type dj show. So my girlfriend really liked RSK when we saw him at the Sneaky Mike show a while back. So when I saw RSK on the bill, I asked her, she was interested, and that's how I ended up at the dubstep show instead of at the Mischief Brew show.

I'm not accustomed to writing reviews of DJ's. I don't really know how to judge the good ones from the shit ones. But on this night I at least moderately enjoyed everyone.

One thing that was disappointing to me is that not a single DJ spun a record. They all used laptop only. So I lost a little respect for everyone and the entire scene as well. It's just soo whack that they don't spin vinyl.

Doverspike - He was playing when we walked in at like 9:30. We stood around for a few, then went back to the car to get our drink on. He sounded ok. There were not many people in the room at this time.

RSK - The room was starting to fill up by the time we went back in. RSK was spinning. He's real good, hard dubstep. We got our dance on. I'd say there were 100 people in the room at this point.

Arion - He's a good DJ. More dubstep. We got our dance on yet again. I'd say there were maybe 150 people in the room.

Zomboy - More dubstep. I don't know if I was just all danced out and tired as fuck or what was going on. But I wasn't all that impressed. Sounded a lot like Arion and RSK. Either way, we enjoyed the set. Left before it was over, but that's ok because it was late and I'd had enough. At the highest point I think 200 to 250 were in attendance. Not bad I wouldn't say.

Hi's - the good dance, turnout, good DJs.

Low's - bad bad attitude, perhaps a little too drunk.

8-11 This Is Hardcore, Philladelphia @Electric Factory

I haven't been to a ton of fests in my life, maybe like 10 in my show going life (about last 13 years). But, I was very surprised at the amount of energy that every band received. It was by far the most energetic, and attentive hardcore fest crowd that I've ever seen. Every band has a good amount of people watching, and every band had some mosh going on. It was good to see. In that building, hardcore seemed very alive.

This will be by far my longest blog post ever. I think by the end of it I'll have reviewed several aspects of the show going experience that I normally don't talk about at all.

This Is Hardcore tickets cost $50 for the Saturday show, including Ticketmaster fees. I felt that was a fair price. So we drive out to Philly on Friday night. Leaving a little after 8PM. It should take about 5.5 hours to get there. It took us about 7.5. We were concerned about traffic on the turnpike because of road work. So we took an alternate route that should have only added half an hour max to the drive. Well it turned out that on I-70 in Maryland, which is the road we were taking, a tractor trailer carrying some unknowns wrecked, blew up, and burned in the middle of the road. It caused I-70 to be shut down, and re-routed us to route 40. 40 is not made to handle that amount of traffic. All in all it cost us 2 hours. We arrived at our hotel in Jersey around 3:45AM. We were all asleep by 4.

Doors were supposed to open at 11:30 and the first band at 12 noon. That didn't happen, not surprisingly. Fests always seem to start late or have some sort of issues with timing. But it was running less than an hour late, so you just have to take that. At some point in the day, we really wished we had that hour back to get more sleep, because our energy needed the extra kick. Not to mention I was super worried about getting lost so we left the hotel at 10AM, for a 20 min drive. So we were among the first 50 in line, standing in the sun listening to some idiots bitch, debate, look for rides back to their hotel because they purposefully left their ticket, etc.

We had decided to leave our phones, camera, all electronics in the car thinking that we could re-enter. Wrong. We ended up being screwed all day without any way of checking the schedule, texting our ladyfriends, all that necessary stuff. Sucked.

Empire of Rats - They came through Pittsburgh a few months ago. I wasn't able to make it then, so we were in plenty of time to see them here. They opened the fest in good hardcore style. Slaying the people coming in the door with metallic hardcore, in the beatdown vein. I enjoyed the set. Though, you come to expect more at a huge fest from a small band. You'd think that the few hundred people there to watch them would be the biggest crowd they've played for, so they'd completely bring the pain. The singer didn't appear all that into it, or maybe he's just not much of a showman. Either way, the songs were good. Some mosh was had. Heads were nodded. It was a good start.

We decided to get our merch buying in early. All the bands who sold stuff were set up by this time already. So I hit up the usual suspects, Bane, Horror Show, and Rotting Out to get my purchases in. They had a bag check so we put everything in a bag and checked it for $5. Good choice, so we didn't have to carry shit all day.

Oblivion - We only caught the last song of this band. The first bunch of bands only had 5-10 mins between sets. So we were outside getting our shit, checking on food, all that stuff. They sounded like they'd be a bunch of burly fucks, playing beatdown, with cookie monster singing. I remember the one guitarist was kind of burly. Can't say what the rest looked like. Either way, from the outside they sounded really meh. I'd give them another chance. I like their logo. Like the Oakley 'O' with nails sticking out the outside.

At this point I discovered the shittiest part about the Electric Factory, and that is the drink prices. Mother fuckers wanted $10.25 for a 24 ounce draft, and $11 for a 24 ounce can of Yeungling. Fuck that. I had one beer all day. I saw people getting drunk. How the fuck do they afford that?

Code Orange Kids - Pittsburgh's only band on the bill for the whole fest. The only active band other than Steel Nation and Path to Misery that would be good or big enough to get even an early slot. At that I wonder how much Deathwish had to do with getting them on. They for sure brought their A game. Despite being from the area, I'd only seen them twice. They were way better this time than before. People were getting their mosh on pretty good. I was surprised big time because they're not a really moshy band. More of a weird hardcore band. But they represented themselves well and we all enjoyed the set. They were by far the most entertaining to watch over any of the other early bands.

Rude Awakening - We went outside and ate some sandwiches from the cheesesteak food truck. Super good "say chicken" sandwich. Not sure if it was the food or my hungry level. They are one of the only bands on the bill who I didn't see or hear any of the set. I don't think they had the speakers outside set up yet.

Twitching Tongues - They were a cool band. Most of the vocals were in the style of H2O mixed with Ignite except their singer sucked. The music was a Comeback Kid vs. H20 mix. On a shitty sound system they probably would have been way better. I just couldn't get over the shitty singer. Kids were getting hype though. The first good sing along that happened all day. Not too much stage diving yet, but people were into it.

No Tolerance - I guess this band features DFJ from Mental/Righteous Jams/Boston/Posi fame? Either way, this band didn't sound very posi. We were outside during the set. Dont remember what we were doing. Lounging I suppose.

Stick Together - From Wilkes Barre PA. They were all about hardcore. People went completely nuts for them. I enjoyed the set a lot. The singer seemed like a very normal likable guy. Plenty to say. Very good stage presence from the singer. The sing along was on like nuts, the mosh was in effect big time for the first time of the day. I'd never heard of them before, but I sure know them now. Strait edge band. Even though they were killer live, I'm pretty sure if I listen to the cd I wouldn't like it as much. It was the atmosphere.

Skin Like Iron - They were by far the least liked band of the day by the attendees as a whole. Their music was pretty hard to mosh to. I think most people there didn't know them. A few people got their mosh on. They have a split out recently with Nails, more people knew those songs, but I'm sure just because of Nails. Overall I liked them, but not tons. I might check out some of their releases to see if I missed something.

Rotting Out - The first band of the day that I actually knew some songs. They were extremely good. Tons of energy. Tons of stagedives. One of the only circle pits of the day happened during the set. Lots of heavy moshing. For a fast band they sure get people bringing the heat in the pit. They slayed it. I got a black eye from a stagediver, but that's ok. I'm not mad about it. The singer professed his love for Bane and Cro-Mags and Suicidal Tendencies. I understand that as well. I felt their performance justified me buying the shirt by 100x. A lot of their stuff is blue. I dont like blue and rarely ever wear blue outside of work.

Rival Mob - Before the set I had never even given them a listen. That's me fucking up. They were so so so good. The singer had so much energy and worked the crowd so well. The first band of the day that truly had amazing stage presence that seemed to come from a wealth of experience. The first true performers of the day. I'm going to get my hands on all sorts of Rival Mob shit and learn it all. If they ever come to Pittsburgh, I'm going to go off. If you don't know them, look at setlist.fm and see what they play live, and take a listen. Shit was some bangers for real. At the time I didn't think people would go more berserk than they did for Rotting Out. But they completely did.

Horror Show - I'm not sure if people were just taking a rest after Rival Mob, or if Horror Show just has been out of the loop for so long that people don't know them much anymore, or what. But my impression was that there were only 60% the people in the building for Rival Mob. The people in there enjoyed most of the songs greatly. A few songs, which they don't have that many, there were only a couple of people who knew the words. But at times it was popping for sure. I enjoyed the set. Going into the day they were one of my favorite bands on the show, coming out they still are. I got the shirt. I don't love the shirt, but it's pretty sweet. The singer had an especial penchant for swinging the mic around like a bola or something. At the end of the set, I'm surprised that one of Philly's own didn't get a better reception.

After Horror Show the show took a 30 minute dinner break. In which it rained furiously and I got very wet. Especially my shoes. The wet shoes proved to be the bane of my day, come the end of it. The fuckers wouldn't let you leave and come back in, so my dry Sauconys in the trunk had to stay there.

Vision - Vision are the last band of the day who I saw none of. Listening from the outside they sounded way more singalong and way less moshy than I anticipated. I'd never listened to them before, but they sound like a more friendly Agnostic Front. I was eating and drinking and drying out my poor feet (to no avail since my shoes were and are still soaked).

Grey Area - I had never listened to them before. I, of course, was thinking mosh and newer band. Showing my ignorance once again. They ripped shit up and the singer/guitarist was one of the best performers I've ever seen. The way he plays, works the mic, moves around, and sings perfectly was something else. I'm going to be a fan for life. I get the feeling that they don't play much anymore, they're an old band evidently, but if they ever come to Pittsburgh, WV, Ohio or anywhere close, I'll go. Think Bouncing Souls and Face to Face but a little more aggressive. GREAT set. People obviously knew them much better than I. They were the last band of the day who I'd either never seen or didn't listen to much.

Bane - KILLED IT. I always like Bane, but on this day they especially ripped shit up. They're so good at putting together a good set. I knew every song. The stage diving was at an all time high for any show I've ever been to. There aren't even any words for how much I liked it. Set of the night in my opinion. From the way the singer was talking they have some inkling of breaking the band up. He was talking about not knowing how much is left in the tank, but maybe one more This Is Hardcore. Damn. I hope they don't call it quits. Even the new stuff is good.

Title Fight - I'm always disappointed by this band. I think they're pretty bleh. Some of their songs had good sing along. People were obviously into it for most of the songs, but I wasn't feeling it that much. I'd call them more of a pop-punk band than a hardcore band. But there is definitely some area there where they intersect, and that's where you find Title Fight. Their merch tent had people lined up all day so I'm sure they made their gas money.

H2O - Great band for a big fest. Great sing alongs. People were moshing of course, but the highlight of H2O if you're a fan is the sing along. I've never been a huge fan, but I need to give their stuff a second look. I'm going to get the set-list that they played on this night and listen to that stuff again. Because not knowing the words to their songs, I still loved the set. This was my second time seeing them, and they were by far received much better this time than last.

Lifetime - I don't like this band much to listen to. I'm not sure why they have such clout. After seeing them live I'm still not sure. They are boring. We listened to about 6 songs then went outside to sit in the rain. Plus they played for like an hour.

After Lifetime it took forever for the headliner to take the stage. I don't know what the problem was but people were yelling at each other on stage and all that. Gorilla Biscuits - After seeing the performances of some of the other bands I didn't care much whether GB was good or not. I was tired as heck and ready to go. Luckily for me they were very good. Much better than I had anticipated. The singer was very mobile and on point. The sing along was roaring to the point that you couldn't hear the singer over the PA because so many people were singing along. It was wild. They played probaby 15 songs, all the hits included. A good ending to a tight day. I may never get to see them again.

Best performances - 1. Bane 2. Grey Area 3. Rival Mob 4. H20

What I like about fests like this is discovering new bands that are good. Grey Area has been around for a very long time evidently. But I'd never heard of them. Now they might become a regular on my shuffle.

Since This is Hardcore is such a huge deal, I feel like the fashion trends in punk and hardcore are encompassed there. And to get an idea of what people are wearing, TiH is a good case study. So for the first time ever I'm going to talk about what people were wearing.

Fashion trends that I'm glad are almost dead - Flipped up hats. You know, the way people bend the brim of their cap up so the hat doesn't block any sun. Only a few people there were rocking that look. Belly shirts (for chics). Not many belly shirts going around there. The belly shirt has been replaced by a look that I'll talk about in the next section on fashion. It's probably gone because too many people are fat. Muscle ass dudes. Now there were some big people there. But I feel that tough guy hardcore is on the way out and being one big muscle isn't as desired as it once was. White belts. I'm very happy to say that the white belt was almost extinct at This is Hardcore. Very nice. Trucker hats. Now I was wearing a trucker hat, as I do several times weekly. But I do it better than you do! Drooping. The fellas don't have to have their asses hanging out 24/7 anymore. Good.

Fashion trends that weren't very prevalent that I like - Converse AllStars. Not all that many chucks in the building. Def not that many high tops. Lots of people wearing more modern sports shoes and tons of Vans and other loafer styles. Trucker hats. Only sometimes are they decent. Camo pants. Now there was plenty of camo pants there, but it's not what it once was. It used to be the standard, but no more.

Whats in - Sooo many girls wearing the super high waisted shorts that come up past your belly button. I'm not a huge fan of this look. Most of them were so short that you could see butt cheek wrinkles below the pants legs. Then to make it worse, they tuck their band shirt into the waist to make sure everyone knows they're wearing these redic pants. I'm so stoked that my girl doesn't wear that dumb shit. It's just not a flattering look on any skinny chic. On the fattys, I understand why you'd wear that. It's completely killed the belly shirt. I'm very happy that punk style vests are officially back. A bunch of people wearing vests of all festiveness levels. High boots. A bunch of classy to trashy girls wearing high ass boots. Hooker boots or Doc Martins, or other. Vans. Adidas. Running shoes. Cut off shorts of all types. Wearing shirts of popular bands. Hair that you spent time doing even though you're about to swear to death. Shirts that aren't too small for you.

All in all this fest was fantastic. Though, I still prefer smaller shows. the more intimate atmosphere is something I love, I have more fun there, things are cheaper, everything is better. But if next year has a killer day like this one had, I'll be there. They said that Friday's show had over 3000 people there, and it wasn't sold out. Saturdays show was sold out. I would not at all be surprised if over 4000 people were in attendance. That's crazy for a HC show.

Hi's - The whole show was a blast, no fights, reasonable cost of admossion

Low's - No re-entry, the rain, my raw ass feet, Lifetime.

8-8 Earth Crisis, xRepresentx, Menace, Steel City Firm, Vigilant, Pittsburgh @Ironworks/Hideout

I wasn't expecting too much out of this show. I thought that because of poor promotion there would be no one there. Also thought that Earth Crisis would kinda suck, and that the supporting bands would suck too. Good thing I was wrong.

I'm not sure of the order of the bands, because timing was screwy.

Also, what kind of Pittsburgh bar doesn't get the tv channel that the Pirates game is on? Fucking fuck, I was beside myself.

Vigilant - Missed them because we were sitting in the car drinking and listening to the Pirates game. This was pretty much purposeful.

Steel City Firm - Missed them. I have no idea how. They must have started the show extra early or something. We went in at 7:30, thinking the show started at 7. Sucks because I wanted to see them.

Menace - I thought this band would suck ass because they hijacked their name from a classic UK punk band. They were actually pretty good. I enjoyed the set. Up tempo beatdown style, new school. It was refreshing.

I don't know what happened here. We thought xRepresentx would be playing in this slot. But I'm not really sure. After Menace we went to the car to check up on the game on the radio and drink some cheap beers. We were out there for like 30 mins or so. When we came back in xRepresentx was just getting done setting shit up. So either someone played a quick set and bounced. Or xRepresentx took forever to set up.

xRepresentx - I never really did like this band. Mosh and roll style shit. They did play a Hatebreed cover though, which was good. For most of the set me and Evan were in the bar sipping on bottles of money.

Earth Crisis - GREAT set! I was fucking stoked on that. All Out War in the jam. Firestorm is the jam. The new songs from last year's CD are the jams. Everything about what happened during that set was awesome. They were talking about animal liberation shit. The mosh was good but not wignorant. It just strait up ruled. It's been a while since I got down so hard that two hours later I was still sweaty. Also, this morning my back and hands are sore as fuck.

And the Pirates won.

Hi's - everything except that Concert Chaos mother fucker upping the price at the door from $12 to $15. I HATE it when that happens. If you gotta charge 15 then charge 15, dont advertise 12. I've been to several of his shows where that happened. Fucking sleezy ass promoter.

Low's - said price gouging, $4 Yeungling. Thats it!

8-2 Waxahatchee, Run Forever, Swearin, Zeitgeist, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

Going to this show I wasn't sure if it was going to be a poppunk show, or a lesbian fest, some punx shit, or what. Eventually I found that it was a little of all of it. It was a nice night. A solid Roboto show

California X - Some band from Massachusetts that jumped on the show at the last second. We didn't watch this band. We were either eating Spaks or drinking beer around the block.

Zeitgeist - My second time seeing this band. They're cool. If I had more money I'd have bought some pins or something. Fast female fronted punk rock. I like the singers voice.

Waxahatchee - I didn't know going into this that this band was really a single person singing folkish songs with her guitar. I normally don't go out for shows like this. But I enjoyed the set. Her voice is real good. Her way of lyricism is neat. And the simplicity of her chords didn't take away from the ambiance. I liked it. Judging by the quality of the bands she played with, I'll probably go see her again the next time she comes to town.

Swearin - The singer and guitar player for this band is Waxahatchee's sister. Cool to be on tour together. I thought this band was good. Though, the female vocalist was pretty much inaudible most of the time. Roboto always has that problem, with vocals fucking unable to be heard sometimes. They were like middle ground between poppunk and punx.

Run, Forever - GREAT local band. So I've tried to see this band like 3 or 4 times, and everything has gone wrong to keep me from seeing the set. But I was super impressed. I like the drummer dude, he's good and entertaining. The singers were both super good. The songs awesome. I'll for sure go to a show again sometime just to see this band again. I'd classify them as poppunk.

Hi's - all the bands, Run Forever, beer

Low's - nothing

6-22 Set Your Goals, Trophies, Mace Ballard, Crash City, Pittsburgh @Rex Theater

I was moderately excited for this show . I knew going in that the openers were most likely going to be poop and SYG may very well play mostly new songs. I was pretty much right. I like going to the Rex but don't like going to the Rex. I like the size, like the slanted floor sometimes, hate the orientation of the bar.

Crash City - We missed almost all of this band except the last song. From what I heard they were pop punk that was too slow. Kinda glad we missed them.

Trophies - The best opener of the night. I enjoyed them sometimes. They tried real hard to sound like SYG at times, though they tried to get a little bit rougher. Didn't work real well, they kinda sucked.

Mace Ballard - I've seen them before and I'm sure at some point they'll be on a show that I go to again. And again I wont enjoy them. Shit band.

Set Your Goals - They were really really good. I love the energy. I was pooped out that they only played a few songs I knew. They didn't play Flight of the Navigator, or Don't Let This Win Over You, or This Very Moment, or How About No Scott, or Latchkey, or Reset. It was a long set, the crowd was into it, and they seemed to enjoy playing here. Some of the new songs I had never heard of before were really good.

Hi's - turnout around 170 at the height I think, weather, everything
Low's - Shit opening bands, douchebags beatdown dancing to poppunk

5-21 First Blood, Path to Misery, Naysayer, Born From Pain, Betrayal, Steel City Firm, more, Pittsburgh @Ironworks/Hideout

Perhaps the venue changed it's name about a week before the show to the Ironworks, but it still says the Hideout real big on the outside. So it's whatever. I was expecting a mosh fest with idiots doing idiotic things. It was pretty close to that. But every band was much better than I figured them to be. Well, every band we got there in time to see at least.

Steel City Firm and the other local opener - We didn't get there in time to see them. Oh well.

Betrayal - I enjoyed this band. Tough beatdowns and fast two step parts. Nothing too original but it was still good. Every band other than PtM was like First Blood Jr.

Born From Pain - Came all the way from Europe for this tour. I'm guessing Belgium or something, but every time they said where they are from they just said Europe. They were the second best band of the night. I enjoyed the fury and the political overtones. I'd like to see them again.

Naysayer - I hadn't seen this band yet and I'm happy to have seen them this time. I for sure thought that people would be more into the sing along, but it was more of a tough mosh kinda show. They were good and I'd like to see again.

Path to Misery - I've seen them tons of times. This is the first time AJ ever headbutted me in the face though. It busted open an old scar that bled really good for about 12 hours. I'm sure I needed a stitch or two, but I don't do that. Also got to watch AJ throw expensive drum equipment into the pit. He's nuts.

First Blood - They were good. Every bit as good as they were 6 years ago in Dayton Ohio. It was a good set. I didn't get into it because I was still bleeding really good. F-em. They'll be back and I'll see them then.

Hi's - Good beatdown bands, turnout
Low's - my face bleeding out

5-17 Comeback Kid, Lions Lions, Featherlight, Tuesday's Too Late, maybe D&C, Pittsburgh@Smiling Moose

I like going to shows at the Smiling Moose, but I don't like it all. More aggressive shows like this are hindered by the shape of the venue. The shape is very narrow, and very long. So when the pit gets going it splits the crowd into 2 sections, up close to the stage and way in the back. The people way in the back have a shit view, there are merch tables and the sound booth in the way, it just sucks back there. So that really ruins the show experience for most of the people there who get caught towards the back.
Regardless, I hindered my own freedom on this evening by forgetting my wallet at my friend's house. So I couldn't drink. I was denied re-entry privileges. I had to wait up there by myself while shit bands played for my friends to get in there. It sucked.

I missed Tuesday's Too Late and if Divide and Conquer played I missed them too. Not mad about it.

Featherlight - Evidently they've been a band for a while. Melodic hardcore that tried to get heavy at times. I wasn't into it. Too soft and not good. Nice people with some nice things to say. But shit band.

Lions Lions - From Boston. They were disappointing, but with a name like that I was expecting what I got. They were all singy and then all tough and then all singy again. It was whatever. They were all spinning around with their guitars and in general were real fun to watch. All younger guys. I'll most likely never go to a show just to see them.

Comeback Kid - They played all the good shit except Hailing On Me. I love that song and didn't get to hear it. But they did play Wake the Dead and Operative Word and lots of stuff from their Turn It Around album. Great energy. Great crowd participation. I was a little irked by big guys being rough in such a small space. But when Terror played there and Steel Nation I was doing the same shit. So whatevs. Chauderman got slugged in the nozzle, that was cool. Join the club. I'll for sure go see this band every time they're in town.

Hi's - Comeback Kid
Low's - leaving my things at home, douchebags, shit bands

5-16 Tragedy, Ratface, Zeitgeist, the Crazy Scorpion Group, Pittsburgh@the Shop

Before going to this show we were a bit worried that we might not get in. Mind Cure sold out of all the pre-sale tickets that they had, which worried me. Turns out the show was running on extra punk time and we got there a bit early and got in fine. There were close to 200 people there, which was fantastic. And seeing Tragedy for only $10 is great all the time. The crusties were in the house. The accompanying smell was also in the house.

My friend CousCous, who I went to the show with, recalls a conversation/confrontation he witnessed between two punks. He is certain that the chic with the big hair is a hooker, and the drunk blonde chic was not a hooker. And the hooker thought the blonde was a hooker invading her space. There was no fight, just some funny dialogue. Also, he witnessed me being hit by an airborne beer can and didn't punch the thrower.

Crazy Scorpion Group - I wasn't into this band real much. They're not very serious, which is ok. The singer wore his backpack the entire time and looks like a real wise guy with some kind of smirk on his face. But that's ok too. It's just the songs weren't very good. Also, they meant to bring demos to sell, but they didn't bring the demos.

Zeitgeist - They were the surprise group of the evening. Local band. They were really good. I enjoyed the set. Fast punk, a little heavy, a little riffy. Chic singer who was good but pretty standardly unoriginal, though mobile and good to watch. I bought a patch that I'll put on my jacket.

Ratface - For sure the best I've ever seen Ratface. The crowd was into it. Shit was going on, and lots of people were inside to watch. Good times. I still like Zeitgeist better, but the Rat was good. They also have a decent little flag that they hang up and it looks cool.

Tragedy - Ripped the shit out of the place. They played mostly old jammers, and a few newer ones. They all killed. The pit was going. It was dark and spooky in there. They're the best d-beat influenced punk band that I've ever seen. At one point in the set the drunk guy with no shirt and dreads fell onto the guitarist/singer's guitar pedals. The guitarist attacked the dude prompting a bunch of people to throw the dude out. I'm not sure if that's all there was to the story or not, but that's what I remember seeing.

All in all, lots of beer was thrown around. Everyone seemed to have a good time. Hookers and all. There was an aftershow with Torch Runner playing in the South Hills afterwards. We made an effort to find the place, but when we determined we had failed, we just went back home.

Hi's - the whole show, the venue, turnout, byob always
Low's - it got a wee bit chilly out

4-29 Murphys Law, Wisdom in Chains, Race Riot, Ensign, Basement Boys, Cleveland @NTC

So the drive to Cleveland is always a long one, but for a show like this on short notice it was completely worth it. Even considering all the time we spent driving around trying to get home. Now That's Class is an especially sweet spot for punk shows. Cheapish beer, great ambiance, good crowd last night. Last night evidently Chubby Fresh was in the house and wanted to kill the guy who runs Now That's Class maybe? Also learned that the 31st Street Pub in Pittsburgh may be a hangout for a resurgent scene of Nazi fucks.

Basement Boys - This band is made great by the singer. He's one of the 'tower skins' who live in 'the tower.' And this big fat guy is fucking funny. He went off of multiple rants about pro wrestling, getting in fights, sports, the tower, getting in fights, being a pussy, tower skins, 'worldwide', and lots of other things. The band was good, but the singer took the cake. I'd like to see them again, because this gentleman is a good time all on his own.

Ensign - This band from NJ has been playing for a long time. Well over a decade. Evidently they had to get back to New Jersey asap so they played second. They were good but not great. They didn't play the only two songs by them I know, Day by Day and Tourniquet. I enjoyed watching them for what it was. But what it was is rushed and in front of not many people. I'd like to listen some more, and see them again.

Race Riot - Dudes from SOSF and Crowd Deterrent. They were really good. All in all they were my second fav band of the evening. I learned from Samoan Rob that Nazis are on the up and up evidently. Sucks. RR is fast, sing alongish, hardcore punk. Not so much different from Crowd Deterrent, but definitely more friendly. I enjoyed seeing them, I think it was my first time.

Wisdom in Chains - They didn't play for all that long, but the set was a banger for sure. Great great set from PA's finest hardcore band. Sing along city. A good bit of dancing going on. A found out after the fact that right behind me during their second song some dude got the piss beat out of him by like three dudes. I'm thinking SOSF kicked his ass for something or other, but that's not a fact. Either way, both of the new songs WiC played were fucking sick. I'm sure the new cd is fucking sick. I'm ordering it when I get paid again. For sure. I'll drive three point some hours to see this group any day.

Murphy's Law - It was great to see this band finally. Their style is right up my alley, I'm pissed that I haven't seen them before. Also, it was great to see Jimmy Gestapo perform. A hardcore legend right there. To get the idea of what was going on, Jimmy G drank most of two bottles of Mad Dog 20/20 while on stage. One blue. One red. And he liked it. Old English was drank. They played Cavity Creeps and the Murphys Law Ska Song. Those are the only two songs I know but I'm going to have to give the rest a good listen again because this band was good. I especially liked the saxophone player, that little black dude was grumpy as fuck looking all the time. It was cool. Everything was cool.

Hi's - NTC is sweet as fuck always happy to go back there, all the bands.
Low's - the driiiiive, it did get a little bit chilly, the late night.

4-27 Urban Waste, Oh Shit They're Going to Kill Us, Ratface, Killer of Sheep, Heartless, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

Going into this show there were lots of unknowns that I felt positive about. In the end everything ended up as best case scenario. Turnout was very good. The weather was tolerable. The bands all ripped. And funny things were happening every now and again to keep it interesting. It now seems like part of the Mr. Roboto Project experience, we went to Spak Brothers before we went into the show. It was super freaking good.

First band - I THINK a band played before heartless but we just missed them. I think this happened because when we were paying for entrance, the chic with dreads taking our money said her band played first and she pissed herself while playing so she had to change her pants. Nice. The crusties were in the house tonight.

Heartless - I've seen this band a bunch of times now. It seems like they're changing their style to more of a punk/metal thing from what I used to perceive as a hardcore band. I guess what I mean is less beat down, more fast and grindy. Still some great head nodding shit going on.

Killer of Sheep - Originally I thought this band was going to suck because their name is terrible. By the end of the set I love the name and can't wait to see this group again. They fucking ripped the shit out of their set. I enjoyed it very much so. The guitar player with dreads is funny as fuck. Fast hardcore. I'm not sure if they reminded me of Bad Brains because they're 3/4 black dudes, or if they really do sound a bit like it from time to time. Either way, their songs ripped. The CIC cover ripped. Everything was sweet as fuck. Can't wait until the Sheer Terror show to see them again. Hopefully they're on a show before then because they ruled.

Ratface - Easily the worst band of the night. But they were still pretty good. They play fast, but pretty standard hardcore punk. I like watching them, but wont ever be able to get too into them.

Oh Shit They're Going to Kill Us - The only band of the night I'd classify as a metal or thrash metal band and not a punk/hardcore band. I thought they were good though. The singers voice was pretty high pitched compared to what I was expecting. But they ripped it up. They didn't play long. I thought it was all very good, very thrashy.

Urban Waste - I never really listened to UW a ton, so it doesn't bother me that the new lineup only features half of the original members. They were super fucking good. My fav song was their title song, Urban Waste. Fast hardcore punk. I guess they started playing in the early 80's. Its interesting to think that they started up in NYC playing with bands like the Ramones and NY Dolls and shit. Though, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that the Ramones and NY Dolls were too pretty to play with the likes of UW. Especially since UW is considerably more rough and shit than those other early bands. Bottom line is that they killed the set. The crowd was into it. And they're supposed to come back for Skull Fest. Can't wait.

Hi's - Turnout, Spaks, beer, cw, all the bands, everything en totale.
Low's - The smell (though a real punk show just smells like that so we didn't mind)

4-19 One Win Choice, Astpai, Westboro Bastard Church, Homeless Gospel Choir, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

The weather was amazing for a punk show. Me and pop tarts went down to this bitch, without ever having heard any of the bands. It was a good call. Show was sweet. Sandwiches from Spak Brothers was even fucking better. PT had tacos, I had the philly cheesesteak. Yum fucking yum.

So there was this human there. We couldn't figure out if guy or girl. Looked just like a dude, but a very strange dude. Sounded like a natural female, in a way that was too real to be faked. Was there with a significant other who was obviously a dude. Hairy legs and sideburns and all. I'm not trashing this person, but we were baffled.

Homeless Gospel Choir - I enjoyed the set. This is one guy and an acoustic guitar. I was expecting a whole band, but thats ok. He played what he called protest songs. I liked them all. He's a bit socially odd, but that could have been an act for the sake of the set. He was humorous too. I'd like to go see him play again.

Westboro Bastard Church - This band was good. One of the better local bands I've seen recently. Jodi from Sarcastics was there, it was nice to have Fayette County in the house on that night. Westboro is pop punk/punk rock. A lot of good shit coming from there. I enjoyed the set and I love the name of the band.

Astpai - The second time they've played in Pittsburgh, they came all the way from Austria to tour this country. Hardcore pop punk. They were very good. Great energy. I liked it all.

One Win Choice - I dont like the band name, but the band itself was real good. The best of the night by far. I little rougher around the edges than the other band. The only band of the night where the singer didn't play an instrument. The set was short, but awesome. We both enjoyed it greatly.

Hi's - Weather, food, cheapness, bands
Low's - turnout probably 25 people in the building including bands.

4-11 Say Anything, Kevin Devine and the Goddamn Band, Fake Problems, Front Bottoms @Mr. Smalls

Going into this show it had been forever and a day since I went to a pop punk show that had shit tons of people there. Mr. Smalls was sold out, that means a few thousand were in the house. We were running a bit late because we're no good at getting places on time. We missed the Front Bottoms and half of Fake Problems.

Front Bottoms - Didn't get there in time to see them.

Fake Problems - We missed half of their set. I enjoyed the songs we heard. But I thought the last time we saw them the singer didn't sing so much in that super high pitch as he did on this night. I also remember the singer being a bit more entertaining. I guess I just liked seeing them in a much much smaller venue. They were still good though.

Kevin Devine and the God Damn Band - This group was ok. Dude can sing well enough but it's all a little bit weak. Lots of whiney vocals and feelings involved. They didn't have any songs that I thought, damn that's a good fucking song. Nope, didn't happen. He's a good showman, but I wasn't all that into it.

Say Anything - Great set. They played most of the good songs and a few songs from the new cd. They were all good. I liked their energy, and especially the crowd response. Good stuff. I wish the Swellers or Set Your Goals or something was on the bill but oh well. "You were listening to my band in 2004 though you claim you were reared on the Stooges." I love the songs where he goes off on a 'spoken word' rant in songs.

Hi's - we had a good time.
Low's - it was fucking hot in there, it was fucking cold out there.

3-19 Shai Hulud, Path to Misery, Forbearance, We the Gathered, one more @the Hideout

Going into this show I was lukewarm. I like Shai Hulud, but not enough to know every song or find them moshable. I like Path to Misery, but since they are 500000x better live than on CD, I'm not mosh comfortable with their stuff either. And the other three bands I don't know much about at all. But we went anyway and I'm glad.

First band- I wish I knew the name of this group becasue they were on some clown shit. The music wasn't bad, then the Jesus speech came out. About 5 minutes of how Jesus died for us and we're all going to hell. It wasn't even a compelling Jesus speech, it was bad. And the dude's voice sounded like he was going to cry at any second. Why do Jesus freaks so often sound like that? Egh, poop band.

We the Gathered - From PA, they're pretty heavy, and pretty good. I'll give them a listen again sometime. Their last song was a banger for sure. A little heavier than Terror, but no Devil Driver. This was my first time hearing of them, but I guess these first two bands are touring with Hulud. So good for them.

Forbearance - This band is ok. I saw them once before at Garfield Artworks. They were better this time. On the fast side of things, but not so catchy that I had to dance. They are a decent band. Good filler.

Path to Misery - This band is pretty sweet. They only play once in a while and only in Pittsburgh it seems. They're heavy as shit and good as hell. The mosh is never brought the way it could or should be, I suspect it's because on any recording I've ever heard of theirs they are kind of bland. The extra percussion, I dig it every time. Smashing a drum with a metal pipe, I like that shit also. AJ's the best frontman in Pittsburgh.

Shai Hulud - The best sing along set I've ever seen from this band. Usually there is way more standing around. It's so hard to mosh to this band because their songs are so choppy. I don't get into it, but I'll always come out to check this group out. Played mostly old, but a few new.

Hi's - turnout, beer, everything was good pretty much
Low's - Nothing

3-10 Terror, Steel Nation, some band, Deathless, The Storm, Pittsburgh @the Hideout

Going into the weekend of this show I was stoked as hell. I was not disappointed. The Hideout is a great place for shows. Plenty of space. A nice bar separated from the show space. Decent sound. No bouncer dipshits. It was a nice spot all in all and I'm looking forward to the next show there (Shai Hulud). I do wish I'd have eaten something before going to this show. I was on an empty stomach and was hungry as shit. I quenched that with beer. Deathless - Good band. Strait forward hardcore. Beatdown shit at times. They covered a Drain This Blood song, which was the singer's old band. Good energy, bad guitar straps. I enjoyed the set and I'm sure they'll be playing out more in the future. It was their first show. The Storm - This band got on at the last minute, from Syracuse. I didn't like them all that much. They were like Deathless but a little more boring and generic. I'd see them again but they wouldn't be the band bringing me out to the show. other band - I really don't know who this other band was. Maybe Eternal Sleep? Either way, wasn't into it, probably because I was expecting to hear Steel Nation, but instead some shwoopy haired douchebag was on the mic. Steel Nation - Ripped the fucking fuck out of some shit. They played two new songs, which were very good. Each of the last few times I've seen Steel Nation they've been fire. I really really enjoyed this set. Terror - Slayed it. Got some video on my new Kodac Easyshare (thanks baby). KOTF, and Stick Tight are sick songs off the new album. They played some old shit too, but they didn't play Push It Away as I had hoped they would. Suicidal Tendencies cover was cool. The talk about babies he hates and sports teams was great. I enjoyed the fuck out of the entire shindig. Fuck expensive beer. Hi's - most of the bands, only one very brief fight, the mosh was on fire but very respectfull too, Ken and Filthy and company. Low's - the parking situation was whack, no food at the venue, $4 Yeungling bottles, Eric got our ass lost on the way kinda.

2-4 Sneaky Mike, RSK, Dazzletine, Ag Ag Lady, Melody Joy, Boyfindery, Powell, @Rex Theater

We were super excited to go to this show. Sneaky Mike was such a great surprise the first time around we had to go see him again. Now, the first time we were the only two people there, so we got a big laugh when we walked into the Rex at about 8:35 and we were the only people in there. Oh no, here we go again. Fortunately people showed up a little later and it was all grand from a turnout point of view. Supposedly some dub dj named King Moody was supposed to play, but I don't think that happened.

Melody Joy - She reminded us of Lady Gaga because of her crazy outfit and shitty songs. I enjoyed watching, but I really hate how some acts will sing their songs over a recording of the songs being sung. It's like way generic. However, I enjoyed watching this. Melody Joy was pretty hot.

Powell - She's a black lady that sung some pop type songs. She was ok. I really enjoyed the weird dancing. I didn't so much enjoy when she brought a bunch of ladies onto the stage and did some weird choreographed dance. She was ok. We skipped out right at the end to go smoke and drink.

Ag Ag Lady and Boyfindery - On the bill these two were listed separate, but I'm pretty sure they played together. They were the worst of the night. My dance music vocabulary isn't enough for me to categorize them, but it was kind of weird and without a strong beat. They were making stupid beats on the keyboard. Though, they were enjoying themselves which was good to see. The crowd evacuated pretty much.

R$K - This guy was probably the best of the night. He's a DJ who spun some heavy dub and maybe some breaks and house mixed in. I really enjoyed the dub parts, really did not enjoy the other parts. Either way, I'd like to go see this dude again and dance.

Sneaky Mike - I admit, I liked him better when we saw him as the only ones in the audience. It was absurd. But last night he brought the weirdness as well. Some things that happened that I hadn't seen before are a mass leap frog, and a communal taking off of shoes and rubbing feet together, and lots of hair/wrestling belts/shiny tights. I enjoyed it greatly and we got a free cd out of it.

Dazzletine - This band sucked. They're like a glam rock faux 80's band. We left after two songs.

All in all this show was good. I think about 100 people came out for it. We enjoyed ourselves.

Hi's - turnout, Sneaky Mike, R$K, being weird
Low's - not drunk enough/too drunk, it was fucking cold outside

1-22 Heartless, Complete Failure, Blood Red, Pray for Teeth, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

Last night's show ended up being pretty cool despite the touring band who I really wanted to see cancelling. But word is that when Homewrecker's new cd comes out in March that they're going to come through then. Also adding to the decency, after the show we went to Primanti's. Luckily on Sundays they are open and serve food until midnight. I got a lamb gyro and halapeno poppers, both of which were amazing.

Turnout was great. I bet there were 80 people there. And it seemed like 75% of them stuck around until the end.

Pray for Teeth - Members of Old Accusers and Failure to Fall. This band was heavy, but took too long getting to the raw raw raw. They sounded like the Old Accusers a lot. But I think they need some more good songs before I can say that I really like them. But it was solid for a first show.

Blood Red - The singer opened the set talking about forgiving people for internet drama. Asking everyone to hold hands and repeat the stupid shit he was saying. It was a horrible start to the set, even though some people there looked like they enjoyed it. I didn't enjoy the set all that much either. The singer sounded like a cross between HR from Bad Brains and the singer from Since by Man. The music was on the faster side, which is good. But all in all I wasn't feeling most of the songs, and I also wasn't feeling the mosh call because the music wasn't good for moshing.

Complete Failure - I've seen this band a bunch of times. I always leave the set thinking about how fast the drummer is. He's fucking fast. And I'll always support this band's set because a few years ago at Sincerity Fest the drummer gave my car a jump when it had died in the parking lot. They're super heavy and head bangy at times. At other times they're very fast. I enjoy the set always.

Heartless - They were very entertaining as always. Very good as well. I've seen them a handfull of times and they didn't disappoint this time.

Hi's - Primanti's was bangin, good bands, innebriation

Low's - Homewrecker dropped

1-9 Rust Belt Lights, Maker, Still Rings True, Run Forever, Pittsburgh @Mr. Roboto Project

Felt in the mood for some pop punk tonight. Went to check out this show even though I didn't know any of the bands. I was hoping to see Run Forever, since I've missed them play tons of times. BUT that didn't work out because my girl wasn't feeling good so we left before they played. As a whole the show was ok but left much to be desired.

Still Rings True - A band on tour. They were the best band of the night. They reminded us of No Trigger and Bayside a little. Great energy. Good variations in the music. I'd go see this band again.

Maker - If the vocalists would have been any good this would have been the best band of the night. But the singer sucked hard. To watch him you'd think he was taxing his vocals to match the wigging out of his body. But no, he was nicely and quietly singing poorly while making it look like he was belting it out. The guy was a douchebag anyway. I'm pretty sure he dropped the N bomb at the end of his set. He went on a mini "fuck politics" rant. All in all he ruined the band. The backup vocalist wasn't any good either, but he didn't give anyone a good reason to hate him.

Rust Belt Lights - I liked this band. They're kind of like Hot Water Music or Small Brown Bike, but just a touch less agressive and raw. Good songs. They enjoyed playing it. I'd like to see them again.

Hi's - decent music, Spaks
Low's - illness, the cold

1-6 Downfall of Gaia, Old Accusers, Vestiges, HumanError, Pittsburgh @Kopecs

I hadn't been to a show in about a month, so it was good to get out even though I'd only ever heard the Old Accusers from the bands on the bill. As always Kopecs provided the desired experience. The show started way late, I think one of the locals, Egality, cancelled. But time wasn't an issue so all went well. Turnout was good, not great. I'd say around 40 people.

HumanError - Tough hardcore/metal. The band was good. The singer was intense. I could see getting into this band, even though they didn't do anything spectacularly.

Vestiges - They had some heavy stuff, but a lot of slow drawn out build up that never reached adequate climax. I enjoyed about half of their songs. Punk metal/weird metal is how I'd catagorize them. I was hoping they'd be better.

Downfall of Gaia - This band was very much like the last band except more slow less very heavy. I didn't enjoy them all that much.

Old Accusers - I've seen them many times now. They were good, the best band of the evening by far. Good intensity. What I expect from this band.

Hi's - good trouble free evening, Steak and Shake, fire, turnout
Low's - having to work in the morning