Customer Reviews

Vol. 2-Byo Split Series

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I have to be honest I expected to like the Swingin' utters side. A complete turnaround. The Swingin' Utters come on strong with my favorite being the regret filled 'Haven't seen yourself in years'. But the suprise is in the Youth Brigade side. All 6 songs rip off fast and furious, like the days of yore of 'sink with kalifornia' fame. Its all their from the group vocals, to the intilligent lyrics. Great great job and all 6 songs just leave you thirsty for a full length. The last YB record had its moments but some of the sarcasm was overshot and the bass guitar has that typical flat dull sound that almost became a Youth brigade trademark to me. But this split has re-opened my eyes to this legendary SoCal band. If you wrote them off, heres proof that Youth Brigade will never 'decline' and 'youth' will always remain a state of mind alive in their songs.

Ok. Here's the skinny; the Utters are the best punk rock band now, and ever. I own every released recording by this band, and let me tell you that is no easy feat. as a lot of their releases were limited to 200 to 1000 presses. These tracks take off where the last EP, "Brazen Head" stopped. More smooth melodies, catchy riffs, and punker than f ck attitude. Again, there's a heavy Clash/Pogues feel (I would feel cheated by now if there wasn't) but the Utters are deffintly establishing thier own sound now instead of just simply imitating thier idols from 70's England. They even pound out an amazing cover of Queen's "'39", and I could not believe how well they succeeded. I mean, Queen? My only complaint is that "Troubadour" sounds incredibly similar to "Picture's Perfect" from their latest LP, "Five Leasons Learned" But no matter, this is an essential addition to your collection if you're in any way familiar with the Swingin Utters' work.

The 'Utters once again shatter the paradigms of punk by penning diverse songs chroniciling the lives of soul searchers, all supported by memorable melodies and diverse instrumentation.
Bay Area laureates continue spinning the yarn and leave us all with engaging tales of fatalistic images of futility, soured romances, growing in a world that they believe they're outcasted from, and alcohol soaked nights.

Youth Brigade remain true to their DIY beliefs after all these years and prove they still have what it takes to write some kick butt tracks. Let The Know pays homage to all those who've been there for them through the years. Long live BYO! as celebrated in a new documentary film.

hey all,

The Punk documentary "Another State of Mind" showed a young, wide eyed Shawn Stern displaying to the world his passion for Punk and its ideals. Countless years later[ :) ] Stern's flame still burns. He deals with his past without overly lamenting for those "good old days" and his lyrics reflecting on the present are insightful. Its apparent Stern has come full circle. My recent interview w/Shawn had him eagerly discussing Punk like it just happened yesterday! He showed no signs of hanging his guitar up or surrendering to a more mellow lifestyle. Youth Brigade? oh the irony! three brothers in their mid 30's (?) calling themselves Youth Brigade, but don't you see?! age is a mental state! their passion shows that they live for today. Shawn organized BYO Records, an independent, DIY label run out of LA. Instead of sitting back and pointing a finger, Shawn seeks to better Punk and lends a helping hand to others.

The 'Utters tracks have a Social Distortion, Oi type feel. I don't understand why everyone fusses over them, but I must admit the lyrics were impressive.