The first show I ever went to, December of 1994 had the CASUALTIES on the bill. Admist a line up of pop-punk and some elder NYHC hardcore, these “spiky haired drunk punks,” brought along their own legion of fans and caused a ruckus for the duration of the evening. Although at the time they were just another local punk band playing around NYC, there was something special here – be it the look, the ferocious sound, or the way they gave your parents the creeps when you showed them a picture. In the next seven years, THE CASUALTIES have grown into a world-wide phenomenon, possessing one of the largest followings in the independent arena worldwide. As popular as the band got however, finding their records in stores was almost impossible, and their tours always seemed to be a heap of tangled lines and miscommunication. Enter into the picture Side One Dummy. With another solid disc of 13 raging street-punk tunes, this modern day EXPLOITED finally has the serious backing of a label that can deliver THE CASUALTIES to a much larger, hungrier audience. Although many fans were spooked out by the prospect of these guys being on a larger, less DIY oriented label, it’s clearly apparent that except for the tiny, itsy-bitsy Side One logo on the back of the cd case, there’s no difference whatsover between “Die Hards,” and any of their other recent releases. For those unfamiliar with these icons, THE CASUALTIES churn out blazingly quick, socially biting, punk/hardcore like many of the punk rock forebearers in the early to mid 80s. There’s loads of sing-alongs, catchy choruses, and head bashing drum parts. While sifting through the liner notes and all, an odd thought came to mind – THE CASUALTIES are like the MINOR THREAT of punk rock with honest, thought provoking lyrics that don’t get too crafty or caught up in greater realms of intellectual though. Just as how Ian and crew had plenty to say about the actions of their fellow man, so do the CASUALTIES, and in the same upfront explosive manner. The last track on here, “Made in NYC,” is a real touching tribute to Joey Ramone and his influence on the NYC punk rock scene right from the beginning. Loaded with song title references and other notable memories, it steers away from the sappy and focuses on the positive reflections left behind. The other true standout track is the song, “No Turning Back,” which has some of the best lyrics I’ve ever read, detailing THE CASUALTIES’ many freezing cold, piss broke, European DIY tours. These guys have a work ethic that is nearly unmatchable. As odd as it is to say, “Die Hards,” is an insight into the American dream of working hard and getting rewarded for surviving an endless struggle. These guys have paid their dues, and have again put out a seriously rocking album. Spike up the hair, piece your cheek with a safety pin, and piss on a parked car – here come the punx!

Side One Dummy

www.sideonedummy.com