Feature / Music / Year End 2022
Pass The Mic: Artists and labels on 2022

Words: Loren • December 19, 2022

Pass The Mic: Artists and labels on 2022
Pass The Mic: Artists and labels on 2022

Each of the last few years now, we've written an introduction to our annual Pass The Mic feature which summarises the chaos of the preceding twelve months and expresses hope that through music, at least, we'll find a semblance of sanity and order amid the uncertainty and discomfort of the seemingly-endless malaise of the current year. We're not falling for that again.

Next year will probably be even worse than this one if 2022 is anything to go by, so instead of trying to look back objectively, we're going to focus on asking our musical contributors to give us their honest, dare-we-say-it positive spin on what's coming in 2023 and why we shouldn't assume it'll be as much of a shitshow as the last couple of years. They might even be right!

Here are a few highlights:

There is a renewed sense of appreciation for live music. It seems as though folks have also found a deeper connection to the meaning of punk rock and are more apt to speak up about what it means to be a responsible showgoer. Not just on the health and safety side of things but in general awareness. Without sounding like an old fart, it's giving me some old-time show-going feels.

– John Brandow & April SollB (Black Dots)

 

While I've seen streaming of shows sporadically carried over, most have gone back to in-person only. And that means that, unless the venues have all ensured that their spaces are fully accessible, they just removed a number of fans/showgoers who cannot access their space. I'd love for our little sect of the world to step back and begin to think about others around them and what others' needs may be so everyone can share a similar experience. 

– Kendra Sheetz (Bad Copy)

Can’t forget, we had a major cultural shift during the pandemic: people changed jobs, folks moved, they got older, etc. Entire scenes have been disrupted, and it’s hard to say if it’ll ever come back to the way it was. Bigger bands and legacy acts are doing fine, but what bums me out is seeing how many people are losing their shit—and paying hundreds of dollars—for bands like MCR and Blink. Save some of that enthusiasm for the rest of the community.

– Tobias Jeg (Red Scare Industries)

Henrike Baliú (Armada / Blind Pigs)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Johnny Cash - At The Carousel Ballroom vinyl boxset.
  2. SUB deluxe reissue of classic Brazilian Punk Rock compilation (Três Selos Paralelos)
  3. Circle Jerks - Wild in The Streets reissue (Trust Records)
  4. The Drowns - Lunatics (Pirates Press Records)
  5. Ratos de Porão - Necropolítica (Fuzz-On Discos)

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Charlie Feathers. I mean, I was familiar his King and Sun Records stuff but in 2022 I decided to dive head first into his discography and grabbed everything I could find. His records on Feathers Records are mind blowing. Rockabilly genius. Underrated.  

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

The year that a lot of cool '80s punk was reissued in very nice editions. A big shout out to Trust Records in the USA and to Nada Nada Discos and Três Selos Paralelo in Brazil.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Armada has a new record coming out on Pirates Press Records and Comandante Records. Brazilian punk but this time sung in English. Blind Pigs will do a 30th Anniversary gig after eight years away from the stages and to celebrate this, Fuzz-On Discos is reissuing our only live album, Suor, Cerveja e Sangue (“Sweat, Beer and Blood”, originally released on CD in 2004) on vinyl.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

SS Decontrol The Kids Will Have Their Say on Trust Records. Rancid could get out of their comfort zone and surprise us by releasing an amazing record, that would be cool.  

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Unfortunately Armada did not play any shows this year and I didn’t go to any gigs here in Brazil so I really don’t know how I’d answer that.

Henrike Baliú – social media links

Kendra Sheetz (Bad Copy)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Citizen - Life in Your Glass World (Deluxe Edition)**
  2. Bev Rage & the Drinks - Exes & Hexes 
  3. The Linda Lindas - Growing Up
  4. Beach Bunny - Emotional Creature
  5. Lizzo - Special

**This one is kind of like cheating since the album officially came out in 2021. But the deluxe edition came out this year and time no longer matters, plus this album has so many bangers on it!** 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Riverby released their album Absolution this year and from the moment I heard the first single, "Baseless," I was hooked. I didn't add it to my Top 5 because it scored a bit further down my AOTY list (mostly due to the complete banger to slower song ratio; I like 'em fast :D). But "Birthed By Sleep" is probably my Most Listened to Song of the Year. I've gotten to a place where I no longer will accept songs by straight white men for straight white men... and everyone else. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I'm currently in a flux period of my listening tastes. Bands and artists that I used to religiously follow no longer interest me. I can feel my tastes shifting, and I'm intrigued to see where I will end up next year! 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

From Bad Copy, we're going to continue to cover all the best up-and-coming Punk, Hardcore, Indie, and Alt bands. We're starting to ramp up coverage again now that parts of the world have reopened. There's going to be more of that, plus we have a few new tricks up our sleeves for the new year. 

From me personally, I - along with my co-host Rich Gill - will be continuing our efforts with the enough. podcast, in which we discuss aspects of assault and abuse in the music industry. I'll also probably continue to take on too much in all aspects of my life and be tired all the time, haha. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Maybe it's my age or maybe it's because I've either been running a music site or working at one for over 10 years, but I no longer really keep tabs on what's coming out. I just go with the flow and listen to albums as they are released and hit my radar. That being said, if you're reading this and you or your band is putting something out in 2023 and need some coverage, hit me up! 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I guess one of the positives about getting back to shows and touring is that it establishes a sense of normalcy for everyone who felt rocked by the pandemic and their routine being interrupted. But, I was hoping that we'd all come back from that time "away" with the desire and drive to change things that we may not have been as publicly aware of before. A great example of this is accessibility of venues. During the pandemic, shows were being streamed which meant that anyone, anywhere, could "attend" as long as they had internet access. While I've seen streaming of shows sporadically carried over, most gone back to in-person only. And that means that, unless the venues have all ensured that their spaces are fully accessible, they just removed a number of fans/showgoers who cannot access their space. I'd love for our little sect of the world to step back and begin to think about others around them and what others' needs may be so everyone can share a similar experience. 

Kendra Sheetz – social media links

Billy Liar

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. The Interrupters - In The Wild 
  2. Frank Turner - FTHC 
  3. Smoke Or Fire - Beauty Fades 
  4. Lenny Lashley’s Gang Of One - Five Great Egrets 
  5. Elway - The Best Of All Possible Worlds 
  6. Christian Lee Hutson - Quitters 

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Johnny Madcap & The Distractions. I knew about them already as we share a guitar player (shout out to Little Dave Parker!) but I hadn’t properly listened to them until I was playing shows in LA over the summer and I caught them live and fell in love with their music. They’re a great live band and Johnny is a hell of a songwriter. Absolute wall to wall bangers. I popped up in one of their music videos during lockdown -- go find it!

Also shout out to my friends in Go Betty Go and The Gilman Blacklist who I met over there too -- both great bands. 

 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I made a new record that will be out next year and got to do some great touring. Playing Frank Turner’s Lost Evenings Festival in Berlin was unreal and had my favourite appearances at Rebellion in the UK and Fest in Florida this year. Playing full band shows in LA was also absolutely insane. Shout out to Mike and Derik! 

 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Got a new record coming out which is the follow-up to Some Legacy. I’m really proud of it and can’t wait for you to hear it. 

 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

  • Iggy Pop - Every Loser 
  • Lucero - Should've Learned By Now
  • Tim Van Doorn - Riots Are Fine 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I’m grateful that we’re able to do it again and grateful for every single second of every show. I felt like it might never happen again and it means everything to me. Thanks for reading this far. Hope to see you at a show! 

Billy Liar – social media links

John Brandow & April SollB (Black Dots)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Time Shares
  2. Plosivs
  3. Big Nothing
  4. All Away Lou
  5. Superchunk

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Menzingers was a band I somehow missed for years. Not sure why this was the year that I decided to spend time with all of their stuff. They have become a family favorite with sing-alongs happening with both my wife and kids while cooking dinner. Great songs and lyrics.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

There was a ton of great new stuff this year and an awesome year transitioning from 10% capacity theatre shows to awesome group sing-alongs by the end of the year.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Side B will be our EP2 release from 2021 which was digital only.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

No idea who's releasing what but crossing my fingers for a new Stiff Little Fingers/Fugazi split. Is that too much to ask?

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

There is a renewed sense of appreciation for live music which is great. Even on the local level folks have re-engaged with the bands. We are not a "pile in the van" band anymore but still fly out for weekends etc and we are looking forward to seeing so many great folks around the country again. It seems as though folks have also found a deeper connection to the meaning of punk rock and are more apt to speak up about what it means to be a responsible showgoer. Not just on the health and safety side of things but in general awareness. Without sounding like an old fart it's giving me some old-time show-going feels. Something I felt was disappearing leading up to the pandemic.

Stin (Chat Pile)

photo by Will Mecca

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Vórtize - ¡Tienes que luchar!
  2. Nerve - Cash
  3. Sumerlands - Dream Killer
  4. Soul Glo - Diaspora Problems
  5. Scarcity - Aveilut

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I’ve listened to Amanita by Bardo Pond a million times this year. I’m not normally attracted to sprawling, meandering jam music but something about the formula on that album is absolutely perfect. It’s depressive, gauzy and enveloping. As far as its impact goes, I can say it’s made me very interested in pursuing more psychedelic textures in the music I write, but we’ll see what happens, ha ha. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Well, not to be a complete egomaniac, but I’ll probably remember it most for the crazy response God’s Country received. It was unexpected, to say the least! Otherwise, we seem to be living in an era where metallic hardcore and noise rock are pretty big in the heavy music world, which is cool!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We have a split EP coming out with Nerver which will be released jointly by Reptilian Records and The Ghost is Clear Records sometime in the late spring/early summer. We’re also  playing a run of shows with Lingua Ignota in the western United States and then we make our European debut at Roadburn in April. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

The new Jesus Piece record, hands down! 

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

People really seem to be coming out to shows in a way I’ve never seen before. I think being locked up for so long made people realize they had perhaps taken live music for granted. I also like the trend of shows starting and ending early - it certainly helps those of us who have regular shitty jobs to go to in the morning! As far as what should change? Let's really limit shows to three bands whenever possible, please! 

Conan Neutron (Conan Neutron & the Secret Friends)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. SERVICE - Drag Me
  2. Lung - Let It Be Gone
  3. Helms Alee - Keep This Be The Way
  4. Chat Pile - God's Country
  5. Kal Marks - My Name Is Hell

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I can’t earnestly say it is a new discovery since I’ve known of them since their inception, but it was absolutely lovely to see Indianapolis’ S-E-R-V-I-C-E finally release a record. Absolutely worth the wait one very way.

We did some touring with them and it was a great fit in terms of vibe and music and it was inspirational playing shows every night with a band that challenges you to be your best. I always knew their eventual record would kill as you have a world class drummer, one of the best frontpeople of our times and an entire cast of amazing players. It was all that and more. We also became even closer as friends and it is so important to have friends that understand your challenges and triumphs as an artist and see the world in a similar way. I hope they make many more records and continue to be one of the best live bands on the planet.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

A ton of amazing records from artists both old and new. Also the year that our pals in Chat Pile blew up in a major way (totally deserved). After 2021 being the “lost year,” 2022 is also the year we got back to touring. Longest break that I’ve taken since I’ve started and let me assure you, you ain’t seen nothing yet.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Lots more touring, a very cool split LP release. Possibly a really cool concept EP if I can get it together. A few cool videos. Everything is coming up Neutron! 

 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I’m excited to hear what Upright Forms do, Maple Stave is releasing a record I’m stoked to hear, maybe 2023 will be the year that bbigpigg record finally comes out… DARE TO DREAM!

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

It means more to people than it used to. I think it was easier to take it for granted in the “before timesm” but folks are generally more present and engaged. There’s also almost no pushback for merch prices, because there is a tacit understanding that it has been wild hard for bands for the past couple years. Some bands didn’t make it, and some players hung up their spurs.

This is a thing that is practically a part of my DNA and I was absolutely honored to be able to do it with bands we love, respect and are inspired by and to bring it as hard as possible. That is what this whole thing is all about to me, the artistic exchange. Hozi from Helms Alee has a great line in Why Am I Doing This? (The touring documentary) where she talks about “prove it” moments. You want to do this? This is important to you? PROVE IT. 2022 was a PROVE IT year for sure. Excited to build on it, dig deeper and continue the ride. 

Conan Neutron – social media links

Svart (Contracult)

Photo: Steven Anthony Roe

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. King Yosef - The Ever Growing Wound
  2. Black Magnet - Body Prophecy
  3. Orville Peck - Bronco
  4. Cristobal Tapia De Veer - Smile Soundtrack
  5. Danny Elfman - Bigger Messier

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

King Yosef was one I really focused on this year. I’d only really heard his record with Youth Code and some of his Trap production before that. Every time you think you’ve heard it all with a genre something comes around and stabs you in the heart. His unique blend of Industrial and Hardcore really hits all the right stuff. I can’t wait to hear more from this artist.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Lots of great soundtracks and films especially. Film composition is really thriving agains the grain in an awesome way.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

A remix record and hopefully some touring/more shows.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Bara Hari, Fact Pattern, King Yosef.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I really don’t see many positives in touring at this moment. Small bands don’t even stand a chance getting on packages, mid level bands are leaning towards buy-ons to pay for their vehicles, tours are getting canceled left and right, ticket/gas prices are insane. I hope the pipe line slows a little in the next few years so more of us can have the opportunity. Sorry I don’t have something more affirming to share.

Matty Grace (Crisis Party / Cluttered)

photo by Ming Wu

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

Signals Midwest - Dent

My most listened to album of the year. I had gotten into this band when they released the Pin EP and this album is such a huge step forward. From lyrical content and song structure to how the album flows so seamlessly that I can’t help but listen to it on repeat.

Martha - Please Don’t Take Me Back

New Martha! Will forever love this band. My old project Future Girls was lucky enough to open for them and they were just the sweetest people and the best band. The new songs do not disappoint. I didn’t know it was possible to have so much output and it all be exceptionally good.

Book Buddies - Best Before

I may have a bit of a bias as Becca and AJ play in Cluttered but I’ve been saying for a year that Book Buddies are the best band in Halifax. Perfect songs that encapsulate big feelings and they’re so good sonically that even though this was just released in December it will continue to be in steady rotation for the foreseeable future. A song like "Headspace" makes me want to continue to grow and push myself as a musician.

Puffer - Demo

Puffer are from Montreal and are so killer, I’ve seen them several times this year and Crisis Party even had the pleasure of playing a basement show them. Riffs for days and boundless energy. Also maybe the best bass playing I’ve heard on any punk record in years.

UZU - UZU 

This album is stunning. Sonically it has so many cool textures and the melodies blew me away. I was lucky enough to catch this band at Varning in Montreal this year and they were so good. A perfect band. 

Honourable Mention:

Spite House - Spite House

This record is perfect. Big Jawbreaker/Seaweed/Samiam vibes and a killer live show to accompany these incredible songs. In a year of discovering new bands and getting inspired by music again this was a big one for me.

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I’ve discovered a handful of bands in 2022. Blemish/Peeve/UZU/Puffer all come to mind. 

These bands are all fiercely DIY and have members that are just genuinely sweet people. It’s really inspiring for what I want to do with my projects going forward.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

There was so much great music that came out in 2022. I managed to see a lot of new things and attend some really well curated events that really inspired me to keep pushing forward.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

2023 is going to be a big year. There will be new Crisis Party material including a full-length and some surprise releases. Cluttered has a full-length in the works. I have a new solo full-length almost done which will be my first full-length solo release. Alongside another G.R.O.S.S. Demo, a recording with my new project Zeal and whatever else will inevitably come out. 

Also touring. Lots of touring.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Number 1 is the upcoming ZOOMAN demo and hopefully new releases from Sincere Engineer and The Last Mile. Selfishly I’m really excited about what I’ve been working on but I just wanna see people making things that they are proud of for me to get stoked on.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

In my experience most folks are being conscious that we are not in the clear yet and, regardless of the world opening up, we are still vulnerable. So there are still masks at a lot of shows and people are being encouraged to keep others' safety in mind. Crisis Party is going on our first tour this April and this will be my first longer tour since 2021. It will be interesting to see.

Matty Grace – social media links

Darron Hemann (DC-Jam Records)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Ultrabomb
  2. Meat Puppets - Live Manchester
  3. 16 Hi-Fi Hits vinyl compilation
  4. Jack Swagger

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Ultrabomb (featuring members of Hüsker Dü, UK Subs, and The Mahones). Ridiculously talented lined up who will be taking their show on the road in 2023.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

A nice recovery from Covid. Finally bouncing back and live music is a thing again.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

A new record by JFA, and something new from T.S.O.L.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I wish I was at liberty to say right now because I’m chomping at the bit to do so, but until contracts are finalized I cannot say. Nevertheless, it will be a very good release.

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Touring is back and most of our artists are on the road again. It’s crucial for bands to tour now because music profits aren’t what they used to be. The band survives when they hit the road. Hopefully everyone will go see a live show this year.

Justin Pearson (Dead Cross / Deaf Club / Planet B / Satanic Planet / Three One G)

photo by Becky DiGiglio

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

Fuck Money - Self titled EP 

This band is everything I look for in music. Not only do I love the art they create, but the humans who make it were and are instantly people I consider to be family. They are the kind of band that rips hard and makes you want to be better at what you do in life. 

Danny Elfman - Bigger. Messier. LP 

This pick is fairly loaded. I’ve loved Danny’s work since I was a child. The Locust was asked to do a remix for his album, Bigger. Messier., which was the last recorded thing that The Locust will have done due to the passing away of Gabe Serbian. So aside from it having a fully stacked track listing of remixers and collaborators, it holds a specific place in my heart. The remix led me to the possibility of performing a hybrid version of the track “Cruel Compensation” with Danny and his awesome band at the Hollywood Bowl. The track was eventually cut from the set list, so I didn’t get to perform with them, but their performance was nothing short of amazing. And just going to rehearsals and working on the live version with the band was amazing. 

ADULT. - Becoming Undone LP 

I completely fell in love with ADULT. when they were on a recent episode of my podcast, "Cult and Culture." Adam and Nicola are brilliant human beings and so inspiring. Then there is their music, which for me, has ties to some of the more informative musical elements of my youth, and yet it’s played with a modern and relevant attitude. I appreciate how they are punks, in the truest sense, and can’t be pigeonholed in a musical box. Each album of theirs takes a step up from the previous, and they do it with righteousness. They are one of my favorite current bands. 

Haunted Horses - The Worst Has Finally Happened LP 

Seeing Haunted Horses live recently before the band’s latest LP was released was such a pleasant surprise. I already really dug the band, but then they stepped it up and added a bass guitar to the band, which just makes things so awesome. The nasty grit and drive that the bass added to the band’s music was exactly what I love in a band like this. And with that being said, the unconventional instrumentation and sonic output that is Haunted Horses gives me hope for the future of music. Everyone should take cues from this band, but do not rip them off! Just take cues. 

Stockholm Syndrome - Death Watch LP 

One of the members of Stockholm Syndrome sent me the LP and it blew me away. Traditional hardcore in the vein of bands like Man Lifting Banner or Chain of Strength, which I also love. I hope to see them live in due time. 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I'd like to think that everything that I discover, which is noteworthy, is impactful when pertaining to myself. Kent Osborn certainly was one for me though, if I'm required to just pick one. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Slightly more tense, somewhat more practical, occasionally more thoughtful, and a bit less practical overall. With that bullshit answer I just gave, there are roughly 200K new songs released on the unethical streaming platform known as Spotify per day. So if I need to narrow shit down to a simple answer, I will roll with oversaturation.  

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

On January 6th there will be a collaborative 7" single with ADULT. and Planet B. Also, later in the year, there will be a new Planet B LP, which has been recorded, and possibly new material from Deaf Club as well as Satanic Planet.  

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

 The full-length by Fuck Money on Three One G. 

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

The positive side of things has been a sort of renewed sense of appreciation for live music, which holds raw energy from both the performers and the participants of the shows.

As far as what I'd like to see change, well, off the top of my head, the lack of support that live music may get across the board, as well as the industry standard of pay for support bands, which Deaf Club has been dealing with on tour since live music and touring has resumed. The unsaid set fee for support bands does not translate to covering high gas prices.

Justin Pearson – social media links

Alex Goldfarb (Debt Neglector)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. No Trigger - Dr. Album
  2. Pup - The Unraveling of Pup the Band
  3. OFF! - Free LSD
  4. The Chats - Get Fucked
  5. Beach Rats - Rat Beach

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I really dig that record by The Chats! They sorta came out of nowhere for me. It's just dumb and fun and garagey and punk. I know they did a tour with Mean Jeans in the States, and I would have loved to see that bill together but it didn't make it down to Florida. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

We didn't get to play a lot of shows this year because I recently became a father and took some time to focus on that! It's been a wild and awesome and exhausting trip so far. But things are going really well and being a dad is awesome. We got to play The FEST in Gainesville again and a few other shows, but didn't do a whole lot else! The good news is we just started focusing on planning some fun stuff for 2023. I've been writing like crazy, so hopefully 2023 and beyond has a lot more in store than 2022 did!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We're trying to get a new album recorded sometime soon! We've got a batch of songs in the works and I'd say we're close to halfway there at the moment. With vinyl production times being what they are, I'm not sure it'll see the light of day in 2023, but it feels good to have stuff in the works and I'm really excited about this new stuff. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Great question! My finger has been pretty off the pulse these past six months since my son was born. I know a lot of our friends in Florida like Rutterkin and Virginity are working on new music right now and I'm always very excited to hear what they put out.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

We haven't gotten to tour much since COVID happened. The tour we had planned last January with Dikembe and Virginity got canceled out of caution after COVID numbers started surging like crazy again in Florida. One thing I know is that the bands, venues, and people are really grateful and excited to have live music back again. It was really difficult for a lot of us to live without it all that time. 

Alex Goldfarb – social media links

Brian Medlin (Desperate Living)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

My top 5 heavy releases are...

GEL - Shock Therapy

There are so many amazing young hardcore bands coming out, Gel being one of my favs. They sound so pissed, so energized. It’s infectious. It feels like why I got into hardcore and aggressive music in the first place.

Thee Oh Sees - A Foul Form

This band gives no fucks and puts out whatever they want (under whatever band name they want). It must be so fun to be in this band. It seems like they just play all the time and ride on whatever is currently inspiring them that month. Right now, it’s determined and relentless hardcore punk. So ugly and beautiful.

SPY/Maniac - Split

A one-two punch to the gut then the face. A total knockout. Play the SPY songs very loudly to the person you hate the most in the world.

Blacklisters - Leisure Centre

I'm not sure what is exactly considered noise rock, but if it's this, they are definitely one of the better bands doing today.

Model Prisoner - Compulsion Analysis

Ok, I'm being biased here because these are my buddies. But everyone who likes hardcore/grindcore should go check it out.

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I listen to lots of music besides heavy stuff. I was familiar with him before, but I dove deep into Joe Purdy. Super sad cowboy songs. His Desert Outtakes really floored me. Hit at the right time I suppose.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

This was a year where I did tons of listening but not much playing. So I'll remember it for that. Also listening to way more hip hop than usual. There's an amazing underground scene right now.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Shows shows shows. We want to play shows.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I don't know. I don't pay attention until it comes across me.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I'd like to see venues stop taking cuts from touring bands merch.

Brian Medlin – social media links

Cory Lindstrum (End Of The Line / Very Paranoia)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Stiphnoyds - Afraid of the Russians EP (Nausea Records / Sub Discos)
  2. Gilderil - The World Is Theirs LP (self-released)
  3. Final Conflict - 1985 Demo Cassette Reproduction (No Idols)
  4.  Drift (San Diego) - Self-Titled EP (JFS Productions)
  5. Shark Attack (Arkansas) - Unheard Southern Punk EP (Sweet FA)

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Rocky Mountain Roller! Two of the guys I play music with here in Oakland turned me onto this ripping Motorhead/Thin Lizzy-type band from Asheville, North Carolina. Their five-song demo from 2020 was promising. Things got cooler when my band Very Paranoia appeared with them on the Sweet Times Volume 7 compilation. I was even more stoked when Rocky Mountain Roller became our label-mates on Who Can You Trust?. But what really floored me is its debut album, Haywire! This full-length is packed with riffs, chops and excellent songs featuring killer parts. If you're interested in a contemporary band playing classic proto metal, done as scuzzy as possible, check out Rocky Mountain Roller.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

2022 will go down as the year that many bands got busy in the studio to create while only the bravest returned to play live. Only the most dedicated "lifers" went out and risked coming home with Covid. Most of my own band caught it during one of our live appearances. This goes for the supporters as well: thanks for taking a risk and coming out to support live music. The single-most awesome live performance I did during 2022 was Very Paranoia opening for Wayne Kramer's latest version of MC5. They were amazing. Brother Way Kray can still kick 'em out!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

An ideal 2023 will bring a new album for Very Paranoia and perhaps some gigs with Rocky Mountain Roller. I'd love to have a label offer to reissue the 1993 recordings by my old hardcore band, Han-Shan.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I'm looking forward to the Heroin discography coming out on Southern Lord, possibly a new record by Oakland's Cronander and I've heard rumours of a new Bl'ast! record in the works. Any of these will ensure 2023 will rule musically!

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Very Paranoia didn't even make it out of state during 2022 but from what I've seen and heard from touring bands, the circuit is open wide and doing well - that is super positive! We usually record at Midtown Island in Tucson, AZ and I'm looking forward to playing live dates on the drive there and back.

Cory Lindstrum – social media links

Frank Turner

photo by Morne Van Zyl

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Pedro The Lion - Havasu
  2. Anais Mitchell - Anais Mitchell
  3. Daniel Wakeford - The Rock Pop Album
  4. Pet Needs - Prime Time Entertainment
  5. Guise - Youngest Daughter

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Anais Mitchell (at my wife's urging). She's a stunningly brilliant and original songwriter.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I put out a new record of my own (FTHC), got the number 1 slot, and got back on tour properly, including 50 US states in 50 days.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

A fair bit more touring, plus I'm writing songs for a new record.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

The new Dave Hause record...I happen to know it's very good. Also the new Metallica, actually.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

The positive with touring right now is that there's an atmosphere of gratitude in the room a lot of the time - a kind of euphoria, people are grateful. That said, the entire industry is about 30-40% smaller than it was pre-Covid still, which is rough for most everyone. A lot of damage was done which will take years to repair. I think it's important to try and remind people of that - it didn't go away with the latest twitter trend or news cycle.

Frank Turner – social media links

Shahab Zargari (GC Records)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Tukatukas - Royal Bourbon (Maudit Tangue/KeepHope Productions/Sick & Twisted/GC Records) 
  2. Florence + the Machine - Dance Fever (Universal Music)
  3. Santigold - Spirituals (Little Jerk)
  4. Clown Sounds - Born Under A Bad Sigh (Recess Records) 
  5. Girlfriends and Boyfriends - Fallacy of Friends (Dirt Cult Records)

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I discovered Vancouver's Girlfriends and Boyfriends through the US repress of their LP Fallacy of Friends. I didn't realize how much I craved songs in the same vein as '80s The Cure singles, but lo and behold, I do, and this band hit the spot. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

It was a tough year for musicians who aren't boy bands from Korea or a certain singer by the name of Swift. It was a tough year for sales, but hopefully with events back in full swing things will be better in 2023 and 2024. 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

I have a new solo album coming out in 2023 called New Oddities which will be a sample-heavy experimental journey. Several of the tracks utilize AI-generated music stems layered with human intervention and vocals. Excited to share this weirdness with the world! 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Surprise me. 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Bands are venturing out further and further and I see that as a positive sign. Now we just need to entice the public to show up!! 

Shahab Zargari – social media links

Miles (Heart & Lung)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Soul Glo - Diaspora Problems
  2. bartees strange - Farm to Table
  3. Cory Branan - When I Go I Ghost 
  4. Elway - The Best of All Possible Worlds
  5. Toby Nwigwe - moMINTs

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Nick finally listened to Turnstile and he gets it now. Expect to hear some riffs dropping into halftime!

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Playing Fest at midnight to a ton of great people we’d met throughout the year of playing shows. A real feel-good season finale.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We are deep into the process of writing songs about stuff we don’t like, such as sports and being in the sun.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

If we had our druthers, we’d summon a Spice Girls comeback. 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Fans are very enthusiastic and supportive and will generally do whatever is asked of them to create a safe environment. 

Miles – social media links

Jensen (Iron Lung Records)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Mortuous - Upon Desolation
  2. Pitva - s/t
  3. Faceless Burial - At The Foothills Of Delriation
  4. Ammo - Web Of Lies / Death Won't Even Satisfy
  5. Imprecation - In Nomine Diaboli

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Imprecation from Houston, TX. I have always loved death metal, especially '90s stuff. Never heard of this band until earlier this year when a friend from Houston was lamenting the passing of Imprecation's drummer at the end of 2021. I looked them up and holy mackerel these guys are incredible. And they just kept getting better as time went on. I mentioned their newest (and final?) LP up there. Wow. I love that I can still discover new bands in a genre I know a fair amount about. The world is endless...

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

That year when I started touring again. It was weird to be out in public again after being so careful and shut in. Like most things I do in life, I didn't just dip my toes in and play a show or two, I went full on and played a shitload. Felt right. Somehow, magically, I didn't get sick at all really. Got a cold on one trip but never covid. Vaccines are amazing, aren't they?

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

I recorded 5 different albums/EPs with 5 different bands in 2022. None of them are out yet but all will be in 2023. Some of them are new and yet unnamed projects that will remain a secret until the time is right. Or maybe they will always be secrets. I like to play games. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

PHYSIQUE recorded an album in 2022 that is beyond comprehension it's so good. Definitely the best record that band has recorded so far. And I loved the previous ones a lot. But this one is in another universe. I think people will be flattened by the sheer weight of it. Also, the new PAPRIKA 12" is just now mastered and sounds incredible. They did a tape with us last year that was awesome but this is a big step forward. Looking forward to this one too! 

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I don't think anything will change. People are only interested in getting back to whatever normal they achieved before. Nothing more. Sad but true. 

Jensen – social media links

Rainer Fronz (Learning Curve Records / Caterwaul Music Community)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Asbestos Worker - The Seperation
  2. Chat Pile - God's Country
  3. The Bobby Lees - Bellevue
  4. S-E-R-V-I-C-E - Drag Me
  5. Green/Blue - Paper Thin

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Well I knew about them for a long time and was a big fan, but seeing Couch Slut live for the first time was pretty epic. Somewhat life changing for all those involved I would say -- life impacting as in blunt force trauma. I look forward to the experience again in the future. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

We finally got to put on Caterwaul and am excited to plan and do it again in 2023. I am also excited that shows are back to a somewhat normal vibe and that production of records is leveling off. Plus there is now vinyl pressing in MPLS which is cool. 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Caterwaul bigger, louder and faster? Some great new releases on Learning Curve Records.  

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

New LCR releases: Elephant Rifle, Intercourse, The Tunnel, Conan Neutron & the Secret Friends / Lung split LP, Tongue Party and more! 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I just like it that people seem more excited to attend shows now since the lockdowns. The support for touring bands seems at a high level as well. It feels like a good vibe and I hope it stays that way and doesn't get stale. Support local and touring bands. Go play shows out of town, take a risk. Play a show outside your "genre," don't listen to gatekeepers. That's it, and get off the internet. 

Rainer Fronz – social media links

Terrence Hannum (Locrian / The Holy Circle / Axebreaker)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Robert AA Lowe - Candyman OST 
  2. Blood Incantation - Timewave Zero
  3. Fontaines DC - Skinty Fia
  4. Soft Pink Truth - Is it Going to Get Any Deeper Than This?
  5. Cleared - Of Endless Light

Reissues

  1. Neil Young with Crazy Horse - Toast
  2. Morellas Forest 1988 - Tales
  3. Surface of the Earth - s/t
  4. Party Day - Sorted!
  5. Hands To - Bio-electric - 5xCD

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Older: LOWLIFE - British dreampop / post-punk - just a run of records to put on and work to. Like if a non-shitty Morrissey fronted an early Cocteau Twins.

Newer: BRUTUS - Unison Life is a killer album, just literally discovered it after Cheryl at SPB posted about it.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

There's a lot of it. And great albums are getting no coverage. Definitely a lot of albums, like the new BRUTUS, that no one covered or hyped and got lost in the shuffle. I think we're in for a lot of "when did this come out?" and missing a bunch of releases.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

New LOCRIAN LP - half way recorded, we finish it in February. THE HOLY CIRCLE's LP Don't Disturb My Waking Dream will start shipping in early 2023. AXEBREAKER is recording a new full-length and stopping the EPs for the year.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

The new LOCRIAN. I still am so happy that we get to make music together after all of these years.

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I kind of don't know what to say, I am not a fan of touring as an artist - it is not something I enjoy and I don't look forward to it. I look forward to like 4 hours a day of the show but everything else is tedious. I feel like everyone wants to go back to a pre-COVID touring situation and I think that is impossible. I wish the emphasis wasn't on having to tour for an album cycle, or the pretense that it is essential. I think that is an anachronism post-COVID. I don't know, at the same time, I have seen a lot of live music this year that was awesome; New Order, Maryland Death Fest, Sunny Day Real Estate, Fulci, Big Brave, Sumac, Matmos, Beach House, Sunrot, Ugly Twin, Voivod, Cannibal Corpse, Khost, Deep Cross and so many more. But also a bunch of shows that got cancelled, rescheduled, etc. So it's weird.

Terrence Hannum – social media links

Adam MacGregor (microwaves)

photo by Will Mecca from No Coast Fest 2022

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Oxbow / Peter Brotzmann - An Eternal Reminder of Not Today (Live at Moers)
  2. Cloud Rat - Threshold
  3. Echthros - God is Love
  4. Amorphia - Lethal Dose
  5. Hissing - Hypervirulence Architecture

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

As Quill was one of the first bands to have played the Woodstock Festival, I was amazed that I had never heard of them until reading their name on that absurdly comprehensive Woodstock audio archive that Rhino released some time back. Why they had been left out of the historical record was obvious when I heard their music. Their sole album counterbalances the sunny harmonies and choogling guitars of the day with swatches of dark psych and angular dissonance that wouldn’t be out of place on an ESP Disk release. Assuming they were just as contrarian live that fateful day, I wonder how many mellows they unceremoniously (and deservedly) harshed!

 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

For me, it was a return to the joyous toil that is touring. The microwaves jaunts in May and October were the first I had done since 2018. COVID of course created a two-year hiatus for everyone, but I had been out of circulation since August 2018 when my wife and I moved abroad for her job. Like everyone, I missed discovering new bands on the road, playing music with good friends, and meeting kindred folks across the country. As a still-recently returned expat, it was fascinating on our latest run to see how the underground zeitgeist has changed in exciting ways in such a short time -- I felt like Rip Van Winkle more than once. I’ll look back on 2022 with gratitude, ultimately: I still get to do this stuff.

 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

More microwaves shows in different areas, at very least. I think John (Roman, drums) and Dave (Kuzy, guitar/vox) would agree: It feels like microwaves is in good shape, spiritually and artistically. Having been in the band twice before (2006 and 2012) has given me an unusual perspective on this. What was that ad that said “As I got older, I got better”? Right now, I feel that we are more adept at realizing the band’s sound and vision than ever, so I personally hope to commit that to tape. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Questions like these make me miss the “coming soon” section of the old Aquarius Records new arrivals list. I am honestly not sure what is even scheduled for release in 2023. Whether they are planning it or not, I would love to hear new work from the following:

  • Thrones
  • Cellular Chaos
  • Moor Mother
  • Yowie
  • Neil Hamburger
  • Honduh Daze
  • Sam McPheeters
  • Godflesh

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I see live shows in the immediate term as an essential part of our collective recovery:  they are how we re-establish the human connection after such a prolonged trauma. “Music is the Healing Force of the Universe” – Albert Ayler.

Adam MacGregor – social media links

James Sullivan (More Kicks)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

--

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I got pretty obsessed with Ryley Walker in 2022. I’d been circling him for a while but I think I understood it to be more pastoral folky. I guess his first record is slightly that vibe. But now, a few years down the line, it’s become this freakout mind-melting prog odyssey with great melodies and a great voice. I guess he led me into that world a little bit and I’ve been listening to Richard Dawson for the last few months for some good hearty, battered folk.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

For us (More Kicks) it was the year we got back out there. Our album Punch Drunk came out in September on Dirtnap Records and Stardumb Records and we got back on the road for a Spanish tour, German/Czech/Dutch/Austrian dates, UK dates plus we made it over to the US to do some Midwest shows. That was probably the band highlight – driving those long American roads in our tiny rental car. I think it was the year of venue saturation in terms of the million bands attempting to book the same clubs! But, yeah, for me personally, I just wanted to get this record out and off my back so it can live in the world.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

There are plans afoot… tours blah blah, festivals blah blah, songs blah blah. But that’s not hugely interesting for your readers to hear about at this stage. I’m thinking of taking up a new hobby but I can’t figure out what it would be. I wanted to do something more crafty – like pottery making or working with clay. I’m shit at anything like that. But then I looked up classes in London for beginners and it’s fucking expensive. I suppose it’s been hipsterised. So I’m on the look out for something – suggestions gratefully received.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I never know when things are out until they’re out – I’m useless at being aware of stuff in advance. With my insider knowledge, I’m aware of some very cool stuff happening on Dirtnap Records and Stardumb Records so it’s worth keeping your eye on those two excellent labels. More insider knowledge tells me there’s a new Autogramm record in the works… 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

It’s positive that we’re doing it again, it’s not so positive that some people have (understandably) not quite got back into the habit of going to shows. 

But I’m eternally grateful to the network of beautiful maniacs who continue to put on small-scale rock and roll shows and get bands like ours to come and play. God knows it’s not the easiest moment for small bands to avoid financial ruin, but the fact that these promoters are still plugging away makes me proud to know them and be part of that world. 

Timo Ellis (Netherlands)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Wormrot - Hiss
  2.  Meshuggah - Immutable
  3. Trevor Dunn's Trio Convulsant - Seances
  4. Lori Scacco - The Order of Things
  5. Felicia Atkinson - Image Language

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Frederick Delius - Florida Suite (1888) IMO this piece is among the best things human beings have ever done (+ I personally need to be reminded of the better side of humanity much more often these days.)

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Our record Kali Corvette came out on Three One G, which of course was rad...otherwise it was mostly a wildly overstimulating/ stressful blur of admin + trying to process other people's "content", IE a relentless feeling of FOBLB/ "am I doing any of this shit right?!?!"/ "maybe I should join Tik Tok after all."

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Our scorching/ monstrous new (Kurt Ballou recorded) LP Severance is coming out on SVART records in April and we'll be touring all over the place blowing it out- stay tuned!

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Miho Hatori, Eartheater, Nickel Creek, Maeve Gilchrist, Punch Brothers

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Personally I'd like to see (way) more music lovers admit how dangerously addicted we've become to social media/ all the streaming platforms, then take 30 (or more!) days off from them to recover our attention spans/ generally re-orient our IRL lives around "going out" again, thereby re-populating shows, relatively (*obviously people still go out but overall I get the sense that its still, like, 40% less often than before, even independent of the pandemic...in other words (IMO) music scene(s) often can't hold a candle to the terrifying, enchanting power of Netflix et. al!) 

Jiffy Marx (Night Court / Autogramm / Jiffy Marker / Jiffy Marx)

photo by Carmen Chen

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

I don’t like picking favourites but here’s 5 great albums that came out this year:

  • The Drolls - That Puget Sound
  • 1-800-Mikey - Plushy
  • The Dumpies - Roberto Clemente
  • The Beths - Expert In A Dying Field
  • More Kicks - Punch Drunk
  • Supercrush - Melody Maker

Oh, wait, that’s 5 albums and an ep:)

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

My bandmate Lars turned me on to the album Expensive Sound by Empire while we were recording the new Autogramm album. Empire was two members of Generation X after Billy Idol went solo. I couldn’t stop listening to it for weeks and later found out another bandmate of mine, Cory, had tried to turn me on to them a year or two ago when he heard Guy Piciotto talking about them on some podcast -- apparently this album was a major influence on Rites of Spring and later Fugazi.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Having been a bit starved for live music during the pandemic, I got to see my homeys Bread & Butter 3 times, played a couple shows with The Reflectors and The Drolls, and FINALLY got to see (and play with!) Tommy and the Commies on a Saturday night in Sudbury no less!  They even played a cover of one of my all time favourites “Ain’t Getting Any” by The Monks (*Bad Habit Monks not Black Time Monks;) Also saw The Beths twice and got to open for Tranzmitors, Wrong Hole, Mclusky and The Pointed Sticks so it was a pretty awesome year now that I think about it!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

So many things!! Autogramm has a new 7” and album to follow and Night Court has a new album and 7” and maybe a flexi as well!? Hard to set release dates with vinyl pressing turn around times but hopefully at least some of that happens in 2023?

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Well, the ones I just listed of course, but also just ordered this 2xLP by Tony Molina’s old band Ovens that I’m pretty stoked to get my hands on. I’m also hoping Think of the Lie by Home Front gets a repress since I slept on it the first go round:(

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Live shows were definitely a mixed bag this year. Some people were excited to get back to seeing live music while others were still trepidatious. Booking shows in some places seemed/seems harder because venues had shut down during the pandemic and/so the ones that are left are booking further in advance. I’d be stoked to see more venues opening up instead of closing, as it was already hard booking tours before we had to worry about world pandemics! At the same time I hope people understand it’s not over so if you feel sick, take a test and/or stay home. Getting sick while on tour was already bad enough without having to worry about whatever new virus variant is going around!!

Jiffy Marx – social media links

Teach (No Trigger)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Sweet Teeth - High Anxiety  
  2. Cliffdiver - Exercise Your Demons 
  3. Five Hundred Bucks - $500
  4. Press Club - Endless Motion
  5. Devon Kay and the Solutions - Grieving Expectation 

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I discovered Sweet Teeth. They are the best fucking thing. They are from Sweden and they sound like Husker Du. Listen to the EP first, it’s flawless!

 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

This was the year No Trigger released the best album of all-time. 

 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Gonna play a bunch of shows, in a bunch of countries. Including America! 

 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Besides Metallica, I can’t name one record coming out next year. They all came out this year.

Metallica! 

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

A cool positive thing about touring nowadays is it helps you get rid of all of that bothersome money you have lying around. Like all of it! It’s great! 

Teach – social media links

Eli Hansen (Real Numbers)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. The Smashing Times - Bloom (Meritorio)
  2. Cole Pulice - Scry (Moon Glyph)
  3. The Reds, Pinks & Purples - Summer At Land's End (Slumberland)
  4. Peel Dream Magazine - Pad (Slumberland)
  5. Rachel Love - Stories From Another Time EP (self-released)

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Epic Soundtracks, specifically the 1994 album Sleeping Star. Some excellent folk/country vibes from the former Swell Maps founding member. Discoveries like this can serve to remind us that there is "no bottom" so never stop seeking out new music!

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

In 2022 Real Numbers broke the ice and played a whopping five shows across Chicago (Empty Bottle), New York (three shows for New Colossus Fest) and here in Minneapolis (Entry). That Chicago show in particular was memorable due to the stellar crowd and lineup. It was with old favorites Cafe Racer and a very new band at the time Cabeza de Chivo (I believe it was their 3rd show). The show sold out, or close to it, and everyone, including the staff at the Empty Bottle, were having a great time. Cabeza de Chivo was outrageously good and we can't wait to see what they do in the future. This was also when I discovered the amaro Cynar which is the one with the big artichoke on the label and is similar to Campari w/ more complexity.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

I know I said this last year but I'll say it again: Real Numbers will record our new songs. At the very least we'll start practicing/playing as a five-piece again. If there's any virtuoso bass players out there with a penchant for indiepop hmu.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

The Gabacho album. Check out the single "Sentimiento" on YouTube.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I've been seeing some earlier shows happening out there and would like to see more of that. New DIY spaces have popped up here in Minneapolis so hopefully that's happening elsewhere as well.

Eli Hansen – social media links

Tobias Jeg (Red Scare Industries)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

I say it every year (oh god, here he goes again!): Red Scare puts out my favorite records, and I ain’t even bullshitting. So that’s my list. But here’s 5 good songs from 2022 that are NOT on Red Scare:

  • Dan Andriano and the Bygones “Sea Level”
  • Gregor Barnett - “Driving Through The Night”
  • Bishops Green - Ravens Cry”
  • Totally Slow - “Acid Rain”
  • The Vandoliers - “The Lighthouse”

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Red Scare re-issued the Sludgeworth album that came out on Lookout Records 30 years ago, and even though I have been around the project for a few years (took forever to rebuild that damn thing), it’s only when I saw how many people were talking about it and sharing stories about Sludgeworth did I actually feel like I “discovered” them. Sometimes it takes a bit of living history to understand and appreciate a band, ya know?

As for “new” stuff, there’s a band that is from a couple towns down the road called Beachblanket that I think are good. They play pretty dubbed-out reggae rock. There’s also a band from Chicago called Won’t Stay Dead that played at War on X-Mas and they were real good too!

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I started the year living in Chicago and we moved to Western Massachusetts in July, so it feels like two very different years. Chicago is arguably the best music market on Earth, so it’s been an offbeat, divergent transition for me. But like anything, life is what you make of it, so I’ve been trying to get out and see some bands. There’s a DIY space in Holyoke called Apeland that has been doing shows and I saw The F.U.’s! So yeah, some new scenery and new music (venues, bands, etc.) to discover.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We have all the best new shit coming out: The Brokedowns, The Bollweevils, Broadway Calls, Tightwire, and more... Oh, and as always, we have an open invitation to Swedish punk legends, Randy. Let’s go, Randy, the means of production ain’t gonna seize themselves.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I know Sincere Engineer is recording new stuff. I think Fucked Up has a new album coming? I go to a handful of Broadway musicals throughout the year, and I look forward to that for sure!

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I book shows for a lot of smaller bands, and the downturn has hit them the hardest. Could be various elements of the economy, could be people having cold feet about going back to shows, could be... anything! Can’t forget, we had a major cultural shift during the pandemic: people changed jobs, folks moved, they got older, etc. Entire scenes have been disrupted, and it’s hard to say if it’ll ever come back to the way it was. Bigger bands and legacy acts are doing fine, but what bums me out is seeing how many people are losing their shit—and paying hundreds of dollars—for bands like MCR and Blink. Save some of that enthusiasm for the rest of the community.

Tobias Jeg – social media links

Andy Pohl (Sell The Heart Records / Tsunami Bomb)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Pilot To Gunner - Hail Hallucinator
  2. Thee Sacred Souls - S/T
  3. Yard Act - The Overload
  4. Soul Glo - Daispora Blues
  5. High Vis - Blending

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Thee Sacred Souls -- hands down. What an incredible band. Such a classic sound, but they've really done such a great job of making it feel contemporary and fresh without being contrived or corny. Listening to them took me down a rabbit hole of listening to more soul and r&b, which was really refreshing and a nice change from the "mainly" punk/indie stuff I tend to listen to.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

That it was an incredible year for it. I can't think of a year in recent memory that I have had as much of a struggle trying to  whittle down my top albums of the year. On top of that, it's the year that Sell The Heart has released the highest volume of albums in one year, so that was pretty awesome!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

A LOT!! Sell The Heart has 11 albums already lined up for 2023, and that is just the start. We'll be partnering up with some awesome labels to release some albums from both U.S. and international artists, and our 2023 Record Club is gonna be incredible. Many of our artists will be playing tons of shows.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

In terms of bands from the label, I don't want to give up the ghost on those, but as far as from other artists, I have heard that Samiam have a new album in the works, so that is rad. I also know that Fishbone has been working on new material and I'm eager to hear that when it's ready. I'm a big fan of the band SHAME, and I know they have a new album that is available to pre-order for next year.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Well, touring seems to be the best way that many bands can actually make some money these days, so it's great that a lot of artists are able to do that. Between vaccines, masking, and sensible/thoughtful action, we've been able to see this come back pretty well. As far as what I'd like to see change....I'd like for companies like Live Nation/Ticketmaster to go away altogether in lieu of smaller companies that don't charge outrageous fees, and I'd like to see venues abolish merch cuts. I'd also like to see some of these festivals start bringing on more local/smaller bands and stop booking the same 10 headliners over and over. I mean, I get it... you have to draw people in, but it kinda gets old seeing the same names over and over.

Andy Pohl – social media links

Chuck Coffey (aka Charlie Continental) (SPELLS / Snappy Little Numbers)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

I often forget when records come out and it’s hard to whittle down all the ones I really dug in 2022 to just 5, but here goes my best effort! 

  1. Plosivs - S/T 
  2. Martha - Please Don’t Take Me Back  
  3. Celebration Summer - Patience In Presence
  4. Swami John Reis - Ride The Wild Night
  5. Abi Ooze - Forestdale Sessions

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I think I’d have to say Stereo League, due in large part to the discovery of the Eraserhood Sound record label and production company.  Eraserhood Sound is self-described as “The Only ‘Synth & Soul’ Label Around”.  Stereo League caught my ear as I was doing some deep dives into newer soul and R&B artists as well as more electronic oriented artists across genres. Stereo League checked both those boxes. Punk Rock will always be my favorite music, but new-to-me sounds are a must as I continue being a huge music fan. Fresh sounds give me different contexts in which to listen to all music and they also help me consider new elements when writing songs.

 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I’ll mainly remember that 2022 was the year that tons of bands/artists released new music after being cooped up during the pandemic and that shows became more consistent. It took me until March 2022 to feel more at ease with being out and about at shows, both playing and attending as a fan. The pandemic isn’t over and we all need to be cognizant of that, but hopefully everything will keep trending in the right direction. My favorite parts about the year include seeing so many good friends at or around shows that I hadn’t seen in a couple of years as well as enjoying all the rad records that came out!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Let’s see…SPELLS is recording a new record right now. While we’re working on that, Loose Change, Vol. 2 (our second collection LP of out-of-print and digital-only tunes) is at the pressing plant. We’re working on a couple of tour scenarios as well. 

SLN’s 2023 calendar will remain busy. In addition to the SPELLS stuff, there will also be new music from The Drolls, Gentlemen Rogues, Night Court and more. We’ll have a couple of new additions to the roster as well!

 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

The ones that I can recall offhand are Brainiac - The Predator Nominate E.P., Moving Targets - In The Dust and White Reaper - Asking For A Ride.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

The biggest positive is seeing friends! Music is very social for me. As far as changes, I hope that more good venues can go beyond surviving and thrive.

Chuck Coffey (aka Charlie Continental) – social media links

Chris (Talk Show Host)

photo by Spectrelight Photography

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

I can’t put ‘em in order cuz this list changes every day, but here are 5 of the records that I have enjoyed a whole dang bunch over the previous 347 days:

Voivod - Synchro Anarchy

My favourite metal record of the year, and prolly my fave Voivod release since the early '90s.

Otoboke Beaver - Super Champon

Does what it says on the box: it’s a fuckin chaos masterpiece.

Plosivs - Plosivs

I’m a sucker for anything John Reis is involved in and this one really strikes that Hot Snakes chord, but augmented with an ultra catchy pop sensibility.

A Wilhelm Scream - Lose Your Delusion

The only skate punk-adjacent band I can handle anymore; I’m glad they've found a way to subtly evolve their sound while retaining some shred. I think this is their best yet.

Osees - A Foul Form

I think I listened to this one more than anything else this year. A flawless, 22-minute anxiety purge. It’s like meditation but with more screaming.

*I won’t skirt the rules and add a 6th, although if I did it would have been Cave World by Viagra Boys. But I ain’t no cheat

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Not a band, but this year I attended Fest for the first time and that’s probably had a bigger impact than anything else. It served as a pretty clear reminder that the most important thing about being in a band is just hanging out and making tunes with friends. 

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

The year I turned 40 and jumped into my first Los Angeles mosh pit fully masked and emerged unscathed. Also: the year I found myself fully divested of any remaining fondness for NOFX. 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Probably not much!

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I know Propagandhi is working on new stuff, so if that comes out in 2023 (it won't) I’ll be obsessed. Mostly I’m just looking forward to hoovering up every new thing I can cram into my stupid earholes, whether I know it exists yet or not.

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I am not super qualified to answer this one cuz we’ve never really been a touring band. It was hard enough to break even when we toured Europe five years ago, but at least it was fun. It seems like an extra grueling endeavour in 2022 and beyond, so I admire all those bands making a go of it. If I could magically change anything, I’d make it so that no one has to rely on being a traveling t-shirt salesperson to make a living as a musician.

Chris – social media links

Dr. Daryl Wilson (The Bollweevils)

photo by Jake Barlow

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. OFF! - Free LSD
  2. Soul GLO - Diaspora Problems
  3. No Trigger - Dr Album
  4. A Wilhelm Scream - Lose Your Delusion
  5. Body Jar - New Rituals

Honorable Mention: Counterpunch - Rewire

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

This year I discovered Lone Wolf as well as The Homeless Gospel Choir. I saw them both at Fest and they both blew me away! I can't stop listening to them both since I got home. “Get Along” by Lone Wolf is such a great song, and “Normal” by THGC is the anthem everyone needs.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

2022 was a great year for releases and it started to feel like we were all getting out to see shows once again. We played a bunch in 2022 and I feel it's a ramp up for 2023. Saw a bunch of great shows in 2022. The Jawbreaker, Descendents, Face to Face, Samiam show in Denver was an amazing time. Circle Jerks, 7 Seconds, and Negative Approach in Chicago was glorious. It's been a banner year despite the previous years of the pandemic.  

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We have our new LP coming out in 2023! Really excited to get it out so everyone can hear it. We are really happy with the work and can't wait to get out to support it as well.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I am super excited for the Samiam record! They played a bunch of the new stuff live at Fest and it sounded amazing! I would be dishonest if I didn't mention our record coming out in 2023 as well.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

The positives I can see with touring right now is that people are hungry for live music right now. Everyone is feeling the need to get out and experience the visceral, tactile, reality of a live performance. Audiences are really receptive right now. They have been forgiving of the rust coming off of some performances, and in some instances coming out in droves. FEST this year was huge! The numbers were way up and it was just a fantastic 3 days.

That being said, I would still like to see more people out at local shows. Speaking of local shows, more venues should put on 3 band bills, and also find more all ages promotions. Gotta keep cultivating the next generation of scene builders and give them venues to play outside of the underground. Also gives us parents more options than festivals to take our kids to experience live music at its best: local, and raw.

Dr. Daryl Wilson – social media links

Kris (The Brokedowns)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Meat Wave - Malign Hex
  2. Wig - Spinning Out
  3. Science Man - Nines Mecca
  4. Plosivs - Plosivs
  5. Viagra Boys - Cave World

 

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I was introduced to the song "Look at Grandma" by Bo Diddly this year. It impacted my life deeply as I can relate to be being a funky grandma. Not literally, but spiritually.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I will remember my kids independently discovering System of a Down because I can't stand that fucking band. It reignited a long extinguished passion of mine which is avoiding the music of System of a Down.

 

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We (The Brokedowns) have a new album that will be out in January. It's called Maximum Khaki and we all firmly agree that it is pretty good and mostly tolerable. 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I just pre-ordered the Unwound self titled re-release. I look forward to it showing up in spring long after I have forgotten I ordered it.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Every show I went to in '22 felt pretty normal. Almost too normal. Like late fall 2019 and it's act one of some shitty Roland Emmerich disaster movie right before the giant lizards or airborne Ebola (or some shit) starts.

Andy Slania (The Eradicator)

photo by Mike Beall

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Meat Wave - Malign Hex
  2. Birds In Row - Gris Klein
  3. Viagra Boys - Cave World
  4. Church of the Cosmic Skull - There Is No Time
  5. NNAMDI - Please Have A Seat

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Church of the Cosmic Skull. I'm one of the owners of X-Ray Arcade (music venue just south of Milwaukee, WI) and we were fortunate enough to host them this year. They're high concept, catchy, over the top dramatic, and I fell in love instantly.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

Surprisingly. I found a new sense of appreciation for the role of music in my life towards the tail end of the year.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

More shows from The Eradicator. Working on a new band as well. 2022 was unpredictable and I foresee 2023 being the same.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I wish I kept up on what records are coming out from bands. Unfortunately I don't, but I look forward to new things from artists I like.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I think people are coming to terms with how massive a change the pandemic was, and are more appreciative of events when they happen and are more inclined to get out of the house.

Andy Slania – social media links

Jon Berg (The Path)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Body Farm - Living Hell LP
  2. Rig Time! - Reborn LP
  3. Edict - s/t LP
  4. Void Bringer / Youth Disputer Split Cassette
  5. Gel/Cold Brats Split LP

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Controlled Substance from Long Island. They are a sick, straight forward hardcore punk band. Tough as nails.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

So many shows!!! Going to shows, playing shows, booking shows. It's good to be back!

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We have been working hard on fun projects. We have our next LP, Prison Planet, going off to press on State of Mind Recordings. We have a split cassette w/Controlled Substance coming out as a 5 label split (State of Mind Recordings, 625 Thrash, No Time Records, Ugly and Proud and Get Stoked! Records). There have been a few other projects that are too early to talk about but if they work out it will be SICK!

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

  • Void Bringer - Rural Anti-Bastard Maple Violence LP
  • Vigilante - Need For Peace EP
  • Land Leeches - Pay to Live EP
  • XPOSI-SPINX - Discography

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Shows in Vermont have been wild since they started coming back. I am grateful to be here.

Jon Berg – social media links

Ethan Felhofer (The World Is Quiet Here)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

This is pretty tough to consider. There were hundreds of great albums released this year. My top five albums have changed consistently over the year, but right now I would say:

  1. JID - The Forever Story
  2. BROCKHAMPTON - The Family/TM
  3. The Regrettes - Further Joy
  4. Conjurer - Pathos
  5. Chat Pile - God's Country

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

I'd say The Regrettes was the biggest discovery for me this year. I'm a huge fan of pop/indie pop music, especially when it sounds like nobody else I've heard. Further Joy has so many moments where the vocal melody could be simple and still be catchy, but Lydia writes some seriously unique melodies that bring their music to a totally new level. Ever since finding this album I've incorporated this approach to melody in a lot of the guitar parts I've been writing. Riffs can be both simple, and interesting, and I've had a lot of fun exploring a new method to songwriting

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

This year had so many phenomenal hip-hop and rap releases. Denzel Curry, JID, BROCKHAMPTON, Lupe Fiasco, Conway the Machine, Push T, Kendrick Lamar, Open Mike Eagle, Megan Thee Stallion, Nas, Earl Sweatshirt, Billy Woods, Smino, and plenty more released amazing projects this year. It felt like every week there was a new hip-hop album to check out, or a new artist to discover. I really hope this momentum carries on past 2022.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

We're so excited to be releasing our second full length album "Zon" on January 27th. This album has been in the works since way back in 2016. We had a lot of unexpected hurdles to overcome but we could not be happier with how it all came together. Aside from our new album we have quite a few projects in the works right now. We're excited to start experimenting with different sounds that have inspired us through the years. Currently we are working on two EPs that will act as supplementary context to the main narrative we follow on our albums.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I'm not aware of a lot of announced albums for 2023, but I know I'm really excited for new Kimbra, Lana Del Rey, Haken, Ne Obliviscaris, Caroline Polachek, Algiers, Metallica, 100 Gecs, August Burns Red, Cattle Decapitation, Swans, and Liturgy. There a couple of bands like Saintseneca, clipping., and Foxing that I'm really hoping for new music from as well. Most of all I would love to have new music from Typhoon, who I honestly believe to be the best indie band in the world right now.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I think it's amazing to see how passionate fans are for their favorite bands/artists. I think the inability to go to concerts like we could just a few years ago has made it so much more special to get to see live music again. There's a new kind of energy now because people weren't able to enjoy it for so long. As far as something I'd like to see change, I'd have to say I wish touring was more affordable. Like a lot of things touring has become more expensive since COVID. It's unfortunate that it has become harder for musicians to go on tour due to the expenses of hiring new people, stage production, and travel. This also means tickets to go see bands live are more expensive as well. So some people won't get to see their favorite artist because it's becoming harder and harder to justify the cost of tickets and travel.

Ethan Felhofer – social media links

Tane Graves (Tightwire)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Dark Thoughts - Must Be Nice
  2. Viagra Boys - Cave World
  3. PUP - The Unraveling of…
  4. Off! - Free LSD
  5. Ho99o9 - SKIN

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Viagra Boys was maybe my favorite find this year. Their music is catchy but odd and I absolutely love it.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

This year was very difficult for me on a personal level with struggling to stay sober and prioritizing my mental health. A lot of 2022’s new releases helped me a lot through the particularly dark times and kept me inspired to keep writing as well.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Tightwire will be releasing our first album in over four years!! When that is released we will be hitting the road harder than ever before!! 

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I’m eager to hear what the new Blink record will sound like. I am cautiously optimistic.

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

I feel like COVID has made us realize what a treat it is to go out and see shows or live events in general. We are also seeing a change in health awareness and I think it’s wonderful. 

Will Butler (To Live A Lie Records)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Triac - Pure Joy
  2. Ripped to Shreds - 劇變 (Jubian)
  3. Azazel - Music for the Ritual Chamber repress
  4. To The Point - Reinventing The Wheel
  5. Deliriant Nerve - Domed

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Still listen to a lot of goth postpunk so maybe I've been listening to more Fields of the Nephilim that I ever have

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

2022 I was expecting all the big held releases to drop as touring came back, and we saw a little of that, but I think 2023 might be the rest of it. 2022 and all of the pandemic were great for DIY bands and labels though so won't forget that.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

TLAL135 - Crom - The Cocaine Wars CD/LP (2022 Remaster)
TLAL224 - Hummingbird Of Death - Full Spectrum Dominance LP
TLAL225 - Musket Hawk / Grin and Bear It / Sidetracked / Ugly - split LP
TLAL229 - Violencia - Viviendo Tiempos Aun Mas Oscuros LP
TLAL234 - Transient & Bastard Noise / Completed Exposition & Blackphone 666 - 7"
TLAL247 - Endorphins Lost - Night People LP
TLAL248 - Cryptic Void - Physwar LP
TLAL254 - Pig City - s/t LP

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I saw a vague post someone did about something about Undying, so hopefully a vinyl repress of the first two albums.

 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

Seems like shows are generally back and masks are off and I'm getting more used to that. Touring is great to have bands back out there. I wish tickets to local shows weren't $15-$20 right now.

Will Butler – social media links

Curt Wallach (Townies)

photo by Courtney Nicholson-Paine

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Rattlesnake Milk - Chicken Fried Snake
  2. Viagra Boys - Cave World
  3. Willi Carlisle - Peculiar, Missouri
  4. Vision Video - Haunted Hours
  5. Garrett T. Capps - People Are Beautiful
  6. The Chats - Get Fucked

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

Kills Birds. I'm pretty old and jaded and set in my ways, so I don't know about a heavy "impact on my life," but they have impeccable timing plus wonderful drums, riffs, and phrasing. Pointed, distinctive, angsty lyrics delivered perfectly. What's not to love?

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

The year Luke Bell died.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Townies will release an EP, titled Revolver.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

One of my favorite Colorado bands, Jobless, has an album mostly in the can. Looking forward to that. And Blood Incantation has been teasing one, too, speaking of top notch CO bands. A long awaited new Turnpike Troubadours album! ...Mean Jeans are due for a new one, that'd be pretty sweet. 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

We own a couple music venues out here (Trinidad Lounge in Trinidad and Hi-Dive in Denver), and it seems pretty full steam ahead at the moment. I just hope we all believe in the science and look out for one another and don't revert back to the dark ages of '20-'21.

 

Curt Wallach – social media links

Nick Forkel (Turbid North)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Elder - Innate Passage
  2. Conan - Evidence Of Immortality
  3. Earthless - Night Parade Of One Hundred Demons
  4. Imperial Triumphant - Spirit of Ecstasy
  5. Undeath - It's Time...To Rise From the Grave

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

A band called Petyr that I had no clue existed until a few months ago  They're doing a blend of '70s psych/hard rock that I absolutely love. Great tunes from those guys. On the complete opposite side of the spectrum I've also discovered Grimes via my wife. While I don’t exactly like ALL of her songs, there's quite a few I really dig. Something I would've probably never found on my own. She's super creative at what she does.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

It was definitely one of my most productive years I’ve had musically and just overall in a very, very long time. Along with getting this Turbid North album ready for a proper release, I undertook doing 5 music videos. Also wrote and recorded 7 songs for another band I'm in here in Fort Worth called Black on High. Look for a release in early 2023 as well.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Playing live shows!  It's been a minute since we've played live, very much looking forward to that. Another thing I've floated around is we have about 7 songs that we left off of the Eyes Alive album that just need a few tweaks and then I'd like to release it sometime next year as a little bonus EP. Maybe include a new single or cover tune as well.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Black on High

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

It's just positive to see bands back to going out and being able to make a living (or try to) on the road again. I'd definitely like to see the whole "venues taking a cut of the merch" be banned in every state and worldwide even  It's really killing off bands who rely on merch at shows to stay afloat. But overall, it's just great to see bands out on the road and people actually going out and catching live shows again.  

Nick Forkel – social media links

Nick Hertzberg (Wet Cassettes / All of the Blood)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2022? (In order 1-5)

  1. Straw Man Army - SOS
  2. Osees - A Foul Form
  3. Gonemage - Handheld Demise
  4. Cryptae - Capsule
  5. Petbrick - Liminal

What band did you discover in 2022 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? How so?

This year I "met" Garry from Gonemage / Cara Neir / Homeskin and got turned onto his world of genre-bending and world-building. I was feeling bold and asked him to collaborate on an album together, and we did. We released KSSL (pronounced "Kessel") - Casting Patterns on JEMS over the summer. I also did guest vocals on two Gonemage songs, which was an honor. I highly recommend all of his projects. He's a kind workhorse who dabbles in many things sonically (which I do myself, and appreciate) and does it right every. damn. time.

How will you remember 2022? (In terms of music)

I'll remember 2022 as another year of manifesting too many bands and projects (I think I released or collaborated on, in some capacity, over 20 albums or EPs or singles this year), but having so much fun in doing so. Music is my therapy. This year Wet Cassettes (my label) began working with more artists that weren't friends or involved in our inner circle - so that was a great achievement. Honestly, physical sales have slowed a lot (I have seen many other tape labels discuss this too) - so that is disappointing, but you learn and adapt from what the world wants and what you can deliver without losing your mind.

What can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Wet Cassettes might be shifting our focus a bit and/or doing more spaced-out drops of tapes (quarterly?) but I am sure I won't be slowing down on my number of releases overall. I've already got 5 in the pipeline for early 2023 that you will be able to find on my heavier music collective page (All of the Blood) and on Wet Cassettes.

What records are you looking forward to most in 2023?

Fucked Up, Algiers, Paramore, Gridlink, Liturgy, 100 Gecs, Pile, and anything (and everything) King Gizzard + The Lizard Wizard end up releasing. 

Live shows are still a mixed bag as we adapt to social gatherings in a COVID world. What is something positive you see about touring right now? Anything you’d like to see change?

As someone who doesn't really actively tour any longer, but who has friends that still do - I hear the horror stories and know that the system needs to change. Artists are losing so much money and are not even completing a tour or breaking even when they are home. This isn't even a case of "making a living" as a touring band, which in punk and these more niche genres, is hard as hell. It's just about being taken advantage of by venues and different figures along the way that take too much (merch percentage cuts? And we're still doing pay-to-play ticketing scenarios, really?). We, as an audience, are given a gift by having tours and shows happen again after COVID - let's not fuck it up by not paying our artists.

Nick Hertzberg – social media links

— Loren • December 19, 2022

Main photo: Black Country, New Road (AMH)

Pass The Mic: Artists and labels on 2022
Pass The Mic: Artists and labels on 2022

Series: Year End 2022

Our favorite music and more from the year 2022

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