NEWS 7.01.08
FANBOY GIDDINESS, NEW RELEASES, AND THE HELM ON TOUR
Well, if I never release a record again I'll be OK with that because I saw Devo over the weekend and I can die a happy man now, as my life is complete. Kids, marriage, world domination... all these things matter not as I have come full circle in my life.
In all seriousness, it was one of the best times I ever had and was awestruck in fanboy giddiness. I know this site hasn't been content-heavy aside from record stuff and reviews, but I fully plan on putting up the interview I had with Gerald Casale (of Devo, duh) in the next week or so. So be on the lookout. This interview, along with a show review will also be in the next issue of New Scheme (although that might be awhile, seeing as they just released a new issue). Additionally, I have something scheming in my head for a variation on this interview that I'll use for the next issue of Translate. Believe me, it will be cool.
Also, in the next bulletin, expect some news on future releases. I have a couple new things in the works that ought to both elate and confuse people. Exciting things indeed!
Another bit- The Helm are going on a U.S. tour again. Sweet! They still need help with a few dates so check them out. Most of it is booked, so if it's in or near your area your attendance is mandatory. Check out the dates here. Finally, new reviews are posted. Some great demos from some new Syracuse bands that you absolutely need to check out, as well as new goods from Stove Bredsky, Sinaloa, Prize Country, Hostage Calm, Torche, Glass and Ashes, as well as some DVDs and zines. Fer realz... check 'em.
NEWS 6.13.08
PLAYING ENEMY ORDERS AND DEVO... AND YOU!
What's the connection? None whatsoever. But I will bring up both topics. First, take a look at this:
That's right. That's the Playing Enemy stuff being put together. I started shipping orders today and the rest ought to be mailed out tomorrow (Friday the 13th no less). So expect goodness in the mailbox within a week. Thanks for the patience!
OK, now look at this:
You'd better know what that is. That's one of the greatest bands to ever exist and I'm going to see them in a couple of weeks. I don't really care how old they might be. I don't care if they do backflips into the crowd or stand still the whole time. None of it matters because it's DEVO and I'm going to be stoked out of my friggin' gourd when the play McCarren Pool Park in Brooklyn on Thursday, June 26th. Who's opening? I don't know and I don't care. I'm there to dance like a fool, hear "Gates Of Steel", and listen to them call me 'spud'. And if you got smarts, you'll be there too dancing along. I'll even dance with you if it helps. Oh yeah, did I mention I'll be interviewing Gerald Casale for a feature on the Hex site, as well as in the pages of Denver's New Scheme magazine? I don't know how much that means to you, but it means the world to me. Get stoked for me. Get stoked for yourself since now you want to go to this. Get stoked on DEVO!
NEWS 5.31.08
SUMMER GOINGS-ON
Well, aside from the obvious news that Indiana Jones is now out and you probably want a taste of your childhood by seeing it you can get a taste of your adulthood by getting the latest (and final) recorded material from Seattle's Playing Enemy. Things have come out great with it thus far! Thanks to everyone who has ordered it!
So what's new around the Hex camp? Well, there are a number of projects in the works that I have made numerous mentions about and that's what's going on. The 7"s that have been planned for Lemuria, Helms Alee, and End Of a Year ought to be seeing the light of day around the Fall time. These things take time people. Money, bands on tours, scheduling recording, etc. These are all factors. Maybe I'm just bad about letting the cat out of the bag too early about these things.
Anyway, that's the news as far as releases go. Now some self-promotion stuff: Firstly, there's this cool internet radio show out of the NYC area called Generic Insight. Barrie, who runs it, does a great job of promoting DIY bands, labels, people, etc on it every week. Apparently, I'm scheduled to be interviewed on it in the near future as part of an ongoing series about small label owners. I have no date as to when that's happening yet, but I'll keep y'all posed.
Secondly, the weekend of June 20-22 you're going to want to be in Indianapolis for the annual Dude Fest happening. Hex Records will be representing in full effect with our own table. Unfortunately, I will not be able to personally be there. But there will be a handful of Hex minions working things and selling you goods. Just look for the big banner and then buy stuff. In all seriousness, how can you go wrong with a weekend of Torche, Gaza, Graf Orlock, Suicide Note, Lords, and about a million other sweet bands? Serious. Anyways, the reason I can't go is I have prior obligations with my band Mistletoe. We're definitely kind of opposite from the sounds you're used to with Hex Records. But hey, not everything can be ultra-heavy (and we have some heavy parts no doubt). I thought I'd just plug us for a minute though because we recently recorded a handful of new songs and if you are interested in hearing them drop me a line and I can try to get them to you. Or check here: myspace.com/mistletoe315 for some stuff.
OK, finally, another big batch of reviews are up. I'll say this point blank- you need the final Rocket From the Crypt live CD/DVD. It's their last show captured on tape. God god, the world's greatest rock n' roll band blessed us all one last time. Get it. I also reviewed a bunch of local stuff (BSS, A.C., BTE... you figure it all out), as well as some goods from Robots and Empire, Tad, Helms Alee, The Catalyst, and plenty more. So go and explore.
NEWS 5.18.08
PLAYING ENEMY CDEP / TRANSLATE 2
OK, are you sitting down? Good. You can finally order the Playing Enemy final EP. Yup. I should have it back from the presses in a couple weeks and then you'll have it in your grubby little paws. The splash page may have given it away, but yeah. Get this final document from these Seattle noisemongers, 5 final jams to slay the shit out of whatever pansy-ass drivel you're listening to right now. Sorry for anyone who waited for, like, ever... but it's worth it.
I also finished another issue of my zine Translate... so you may as well order that too. I'd say it's pretty decent. I mean, for a cheap and short read it's pretty good. I interviewed some rad dudes and added some other good stuff. Check for a better description on the orders page.
As for other news... well, thanks to all the good kids who put me up on the West Coast while I was out visiting. It was a lot of fun as always... I love the West Coast.
And for people who like their music really, really loud The Helm are back in action and will once again be touring the U.S. this Summer between mid-July til mid-August. Definitely either a.) book them, or b.) go see them Your ears will hate you for it, but the rest of you will feel oh so good.
Other big news on the horizon for the label that I can't talk about just yet, but I'll make an announcement real soon. I'll give you a hint- it has nothing to do with any new bands, but it has a lot to do with how accessible my records will be to you. More to come...
NEWS 3.22.08
NEW REVIEWS / FUCK WINTER
Howdy! Who's ready for Spring? Seriously, fuck this Winter. At least it's given this guy a lot of time to write reviews and so forth. And I'm happy to report that this time around I think I reviewed more zines and books than any other batch of online reviews I've posted. That actually is a pretty good feeling because I'm always happy to see some print zines. So check all the new stuff- The Canary, Give Me Back, Invincible Summer, DIY Screenprinting, and more. Oh yeah, there was some music too, like the new Paint It Black, Setauket, Lemuria, Forfeit, and Iron Lung records. So take a peak.
Next on the list- where's the Playing Enemy CD. Good question. There have been the usual art holdup's, but rest assured it is the most minor of changes needing to be done and if it's any consolation, the project is paid for. Now it just has to get pressed! As usual, up to the minute info will be posted when it's available.
Moving on- I know it's far ways off, but start making plans to be in Indianapolis the weekend of June 21-23 for the annual Dude Fest. Hex Records will be helping to sponsor this year's event and have a table chock full of shit to sell to you. My drones will be manning the whole thing so prepare to be stoked. Again, more details to follow.
Fourthly- my March/April travel plans are coming to fruition. Vacation style will be March 26th- April 8th on the West Coast starting in LA and moving up to Seattle, and then back again to Seattle... so get in touch if you want to get down. Tour with Mistletoe is set from April 11th-April 20th down the East Coast and back up again. There are still a couple trouble spots in the Carolinas and Georgia if you can help out, seriously, you rock. For exact dates check myspace.com/mistletoe315 As always, I'll have the Hex distro with me Next bit of info- you can start ordering some of my stuff from Slave Union Records out of Schenectady, NY. They already carry a vast array of crazy records and stuff so check them out because they had the good sense to start carrying my stuff as well.
Finally, those crazy bastards in Engineer will be doing some shows with Rosetta and Giant pretty soon. Here's the dates:
May 23rd - Baltimore, MD @ The Talking Head
May 24th - Richmond, VA
May 25th - Lancaster, PA
May 26th - New York City, NY
May 27th - New Jersey
May 29th - Philadelphia, PA @ Siren Records
May 30th - Torrington, CT @ Serenity
May 31st - Burlington, VT @ 242 Main
June 1st - Providence, RI
That's it for now. More updates and news to follow shortly!
NEWS 1.28.08
DECIBEL MAGAZINE & ACHILLES SHOWS
Check the newest issue of Decibel magazine (At the Gates cover) for an involved article on the state of metal zines, past and present. You know zines... those paper things with multiple pages and... nevermind. Either way, I'm quoted a number of times and they even printed up a few covers from issues of Hex. Not bad!
Also, if you live in the middle of nowhere, NY, February will be a good time to see Achilles at a couple of excellent shows!
Feb. 9th - Oswego, NY w/ Another Breath, Engineer, Election Day and more @ the Knights Of Columbus
Feb. 10th - Bath, NY w/ Engineer, The Red Death, Sakes Alive, Heavy Hearted, and more at a bowling alley.
Damn stright.
Also, April- planning some heavy travelling. A West Coast jaunt to visit friends and travel the coast, as well as an East Coast tour with my band Mistletoe (myspace.com/mistletoe315). Plans will be posted as they materialize. How sweet is the new Lemuria record? For sheez....
NEWS 1.09.08
PLAYING ENEMY & NEW REVIEWS
Alright, moving right along with Hex business, you'll see above something that has been talked of for many months and finally, I can guarantee more evidence of it's forthcoming physical existance. This is the cover to the final Playing Enemy CD entitled, "My Life As the Villian". It will be a limited edition release, packaged in a fancy arigato pack courtesey of the fine folks at Stumptown Printers. I'll do some sort of pre-order deal once it's ready to be released. So keep tuned.
Thanks to everyone who, so far, ordered a copy of my new zine Translate. I'm surprised anyone at all even ordered it! But if you haven't yet why waste time? Get one. It's cheap and it's a good read. I'll definitely be putting another one of these out before Spring arrives, that's for sure.
And for what you would figure on being in a zine, but is not, I have posted new reviews. I gotta say, the Winter has been rather dry. Not too many gems. Some good reading material, finally some new Young Widows stuff, the new Conversions LP, a couple neat demos, a lot of Level Plane stuff, Haram, Perth Express, Defeatist, Arson Anthem, Tusk, Joe Lally, and more. Go read on...
I'll be on tour again in April, as well as planning a short West Coast trip around the same time so keep checking back for details.
NEWS 1.2.08
NEW YEAR & NEW ZINE
OK, now that New years is wrapped up (and what a day that was!) I can begin doing for 2008, right?
Well, first off, I called my own bluff. I did another zine. But it's not a Hex zine. I just had some quick ideas, a sudden creative surge, and shat out a cool little zine called Translate. I think I have at least a few issues in me because I'm already fleshing out ideas for #2. It ought to keep me occupied with staying indoors for the Winter. As for #1, I interviewed my friends Matt from Red Leader Records and Ryan McKenney from Trap Them. I also wrote up a neat little (i.e. 'long') tour journal from when I did a short tour with Peter Young over the Fall. All in all, there's 24 1/2 sized pages of excitement to read.
Also, be on the lookout in the next few weeks because the final Playing Enemy stuff is like, almost done. I got all the artwork yesterday and I believe it is now at the mastering joint getting, ya know, mastered. I ought to have the official release date down very soon.
Finally, ACHILLES. Yes. 4 shows this month. If you are on the Eastern seaboard don't miss these rare live appearances. All shows are with Tides and Like Wolves. Thursday, Jan. 10th @ 278 North St., Rochester Friday, Jan. 11th @ Westcott Community Center, Syracuse (w/ Romans & Torquemada (mem. of Ed Gein and No Idols first show)) Saturday, Jan. 12th @ Lost & Found, Brooklyn, NY Sunday, Jan. 13th @ Easy Access, Pawtucket, R.I.
There you go. Do it up!
NEWS 12.07.07
ADIOS 2007!
Well, as the year draws to a close I figured I ought to reflect on what happened, and offer some bright nods to the future, yes? Well, this year proved to be a tumultous (AKA 'debt-ridden'), yet productive year for the label. Achilles dropped their sophomore release to loads of acclaim, yet with almost no live shows to back it. It just shows how much the record rules. And I still think you ought to buy it.
The final issue of Hanging Like a Hex, the zine that started this label, finally arrived after four years of waiting. If it were a pregnancy I'd either be an elephant or some crazy lady waltzing around with a dead baby in her womb. Bad jokes aside, I still think you ought to pick up the issue for some timeless reading goodness.
Ed Gein's, "Judas Goats and Dieseleaters" LP finally saw the light of day upon getting a great new art job (don't worry Forson, you will get your check!) after over a year of waiting for other hacks who just can't live up to how cool the new package looks. And, again, you ought to pick it up. And seeing as it is the end of the year I figure I ought to drop the 'best of' for the year. I decided not to ask others to save the trouble of collecting a bunch of lists, so here's mine. In order:
1.) 108, "A New Beat From a Dead Heart" (Deathwish Inc.)
2.) Achilles, "Hospice" (Hex)
3.) Dead Mechanical, "Medium Noise" (Sex Cells/Toxic Pop)
4.) Torche, "In Return" (Robotic Empire)
5.) Soul Control, "Evolution" (Rivalry)
6.) The Minor Times, "Summer Of Wolves" (Prosthetic)
7.) Pissed Jeans, "Hope For Men" (Sub pop)
8.) Trap Them, "Sleepwell Deconstructor" (Trash Art)
9.) Pig Destroyer, "Phantom Limb" (Relapse)
10.) Prize Country, "Lottery Of Recognition" (Exigent Records)
Runner up's:
Coliseum, "No Salvation" (Relapse)
We the People, "Tme To Operate" (SWX2)
Bloody Panda, "Pheramone" (Level-Plane)
Lemuria, "The First Collection" (Yo-Yo Records) <--- would be in top 10 if it wasn't just a collection of singles
Unsane, "Visqueen" (Ipecac)
Graf Orlock, "Destination Time Tomorrow" (Level-Plane)
Melt-Banana, "Bambi's Dilema" (A-Zap)
Oxbow, "The Narcotic Story" (Hydrahead)
Best stuff I picked up this year that didn't come out this year:
Lungfish, "Talking Songs For Walking" (Dischord)
Pissed Jeans, "Shallow" (Parts Unknown)
Assfactor 4 LP (Old Glory)
Next up, while wondering about bands associated with this label, I should mention a few quick live (and not so live) things.
Achilles will finally be playing some shows in January. Hell fucking yeah. The exact venues are not yet set, but all the shows are with the equally as engaging Providence metalgaze rockers in Tides. The dates are as follows:
Thurs., Jan. 10th- Rochester, NY
Friday, Jan. 11th- Syracuse @ Westcott Community Center
Saturday, Jan. 12th- New York City
Sunday, Jan. 13th- Boston, MA
Keep an ear to the ground for further details and make sure you see at least one of these rare live dates!
As for the Ed Geiners.... well, they definitely have been keeping a low profile as they take some time off. But for 2K8 they should be getting back on the road for a little bit (though not nearly as much as they have been in the last couple of years), releasing a split record with Graf Orlock (on Level Plane), and who knows, maybe even churn out another full-length. In the down time though Graham and Jesse have started a little side project grind band with dudes from No Idols, Harbor, and Architect. Yeah, I'm stoked too!
Minor Times... well, they're splitting up. Yup. You heard it. They are, though, releasing a final split with Rosetta through Relapse and probably playing a couple last shows. Check on them for details, those bastards.
OK. Finally, I want to give a little glimpse into the future. 2008 will be the year for vinyl for Hex Records. Almost everything I have planned is in the 7" format so seriously, if you don't own a record player I can only ask 'why"' It is one of the most important vertabrae that forms the backbone of this thing called 'punk'.
Additionally, expect some different styles of music. I have always prided this label to promote challenging and exciting music, even though a lot of it is on the heavier side of things. For the next year the gradual shift, and the challenge, will be to check out a different side of what's out there. I like all sorts of music and some of the things I have planned show that. So here's the rundown of what I have planned.
First off, the last Playing Enemy EP (CD). Damien Johnston assures me the final mix is done and ready to send out. You can hear one of the songs at myspace.com/playingenemy
Next, another Northwest powerhouse 3-piece makes themselves known- Seattle's Helms Alee. I'll be doing a 7" for these rockers. It's Ben from Harkonen's new band and the sound is akin to those huge KARP/Melvins-esque dirges, yet with soothing accompanying female vocals and some nice Unwound-ish melodic qualities. They'll already have a couple records under their belt (including jams for Hydrahead and Rome Plow Records) by the time mine gets out. Listen to them here: myspace.com/helmsaleemusic
OK, venturing back to the East Coast I'll be doing a 7" for my favorite new rockers, the incouragably nice Lemuria, from Buffalo. They've been a non-stop touring machine for the last couple years, kicking out ridiculously catchy pop-rock that recalls the best of Superchunk, The Breeders, maybe a little Husker Du in basements across the nation. They have a bunch of singles and splits out, and are finally relasing their debut full-length for Asian Man next month. I ought to have a record out for them sometime in the Spring. One listen and you'll be humming all day: myspace.com/lemuria
After which, another band who is planning on dropping a ton of recorded material in the next year, is Albany's End Of a Year. I've become good friends with these champs in the last few months and I'm extending that friendship in the form of a 7" record. Their style of hardcore is indescribeable. Sure, late 80's/early 90's Dischord Records is a good starting place, but it's just a peripheral view. You have to look inside to truly see the inspiring shit these dudes churn out. myspace.com/endofayear
There may be one or two more projects, including, possibly, a 7" for Portland ass-kickers Prize Country (myspace.com/prizecountry).. so we'll see. Maybe something else... I don't know.
But in a scene that often seems stagnant, repetitive, and rather hopeless to my jaded old ass I continue to find people and music that refreshes me, revitalizes me, and makes me understand why I put so much time into it. I hope you get as much enjoyment out of these records that I do. And hopefully you keep interested in the endeavors of this label!
11.24.07
BACK FROM TOUR, NEW REVIEWS
Well, it has certainly been awhile. But I've also been busy on a couple of tours, playing shows, bracing for the oncoming Winter cold, and turning 30. Yes, I hit that peak where I should have retired from this game a long time ago. So why am I still here... uh... I dunno, I think my Alzheimers is setting in.
Anyway, to all those who came out to the Mistletoe shows, or hung out while I was on tour with Peter Young, thanks! And to the new folks I met on each of these jaunts who may be reading this- it was nice to meet you all! Except for that traffic cop in Boston (I bet he's not into hardcore anyway).
On the news front not too much happening in the Hex camp. Why? Well, because, as usual with a label like mine I'm broke.
Yes, there are indeed plans for some new releases in the near future, but nothing really has happened with them as of yet simply because I can't afford to put them out. But don't fret, they will be coming. Plus, most of the upcoming releases I have planned won't set me back too much more either, so I ought to be in the clear I think.
On the positive, I think everyone will be happy to know that right after the New Year ACHILLES are planning a few Northeast shows! Yes, it actually will be happening. They will all be in town, they'll have some free time, Mars will align with Neptune, and the universe will be in harmony... moshing. See keep an ear to the ground and check their page for updates. It's looking like early to mid-January for a few of these gigs.
Also, it may entertain you to know that there are new reviews posted. Honestly, I sometimes wish I could just review all the cool records I picked up on my travels instead of the myriad of 'promo packs' I get. Don't get me wrong. I get some killer stuff (just see some of the reviews). But how about I just list a few of the gems I picked up from rad places like Siren Records in Doylestown, PA or Volume CD Exchange in Virginia Beach, VA (where you can now also get fine Hex Records releases... ahem). Yes, I did find "Talking Songs For Walking" by Lungfish, as well as the first Into Another 12", a Skin Yard 7", the Greyhouse/Dahlia Seed split 7", Pissed Jeans, "Shallow" CD, The Monorchid 7" (Gravity), and The Bayonettes, "We're Doomed" 7", amongst other stuff.
OK, but in the zine section I've reviewed the new digs by Black Cross, High On Fire, Lemuria, The #12 Looks like You, Romans, Crime in Stereo, Prize Country, Capital, Attempted Control, Terror, This Is Why, Herbivore magazine, and about 25 more. It's jam packed content for your eyes only!
10.9.07
ENGINEER & THE MINOR TIMES
Go see these freaks of nature. They'll blow out your colon.
`
10/12 Rochester, NY @ The Elixir
10/13 Pittsburgh, PA @ The Lilypad
10/14 Cleveland, OH @ The Davenport
10/15 Louisville, KY @ The Keswick Democratic Club
10/16 Memphis, TN @ The Dregs
10/17 Baton Rouge, LA @ 3846 Government Street
10/18 New Orleans, LA @ Broadmoor House
10/19 Hattiesburg, MI @ TBA
10/20 Birmingham, AL @ Cave 9
10/21 Charleston, SC @ Cumberland..'s
10/22 Charlotte, NC @ Lunchbox Records
10/23 Virginia Beach, VA @ Gil..'s
10/24 Washington, DC @ The Red and The Black
10/25 Baltimore, MD @ The Talking Head
10/26 Torrington, CT @ Metropolis Records
10/27 Binghamton, NY @ Binghamton Universitys Old Union West Lounge
10.1.07
Hello Rocktober
It's already (R)October... which is just great by me. Fall rules, Halloween is right around the corner and so is my birthday. Hot dog. As I've made in numerous other statements, I'll be gone a good chunk of this month, with various days back in town here and there to take care of business. So while I'm on the road, if I'm going to be in your town come say 'hi' and buy some records. See the pictures above for an accurate portrayal of my appearance.
Here are the dates: with MISTLETOE (myspace.com/mistletoe315)
Sat. 10/6- Burlington, VT @ 242 Main
Sun. 10/7- Syracuse, NY @ Westcott C.C. for ACHC Fest II
Mon. 10/8- Buffalo, NY @ Mohawk Place
Thurs. 10/11- Pittsburgh, PA @ Mr. Roboto Project
Fri. 10/12- Doylestown, PA @ Siren Records
Sat. 10/13- Binghamton, NY @ Binghamton University
Sun. 10/14- Syracuse, NY @ Westcott C.C.
Speaking dates with PETER YOUNG (myspace.com/supportpeter)
Fri. 10/19- Worcester, MA @ Mass. Polytech. Institute
Sat. 10/20- Boston, MA @ Lucy Parsons Infoshop
Sun. 10/21- Maple Farms, MA @ Maple Farms Sanctuary
Mon. 10/22- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Law College (?)
Tues. 10/23- Philly, PA @ Singapore Restauraunt Wed.
10/24- Washington, DC @ American University Thurs.
10/25- Virginia Beach, VA @ Volume Exchange Fri.
10/26- Poughkipsee, NY @ Vassar College Sat.
10/27- Syracuse, NY @ Syracuse University Hall Of Languages
So yeah, that's all of it. Now, if you can't check into any of these things I highly suggest seeing Engineer and The Minor Times on tour together between 10/13 and 10/27 heading all over the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast. Check their pages for exact dates. Believe me, you're going to want to see these bands on this tour. I HIGHLY recommend it.
OK, the last bit of news before I wrap this up and get underway with my adventures is to drop some future release plans. For the definite, before the year is up I'm going to attempt to finally get the last Playing Enemy EP out on CD. I'll also be dropping a 7" for new Seattle group Helms Alee, who are fucking awesome. It's Ben from Harkonen's new band, and you can hear that distinctive howl and huge sound. But there's a great Unwound-ish twist to it, along with some eerie female vocals backing things up. Finally, as a 180 degree turn I'll be doing a 7" for Buffalo's power-pop rockers Lemuria. No shit. What can I say, I melt when I hear their songs, tugging at my old and bitter heartstrings and then they wallop me with their rock. I also have plans for a few other vinyl releases after the New Year, but I'll wait to say anything about those until I know for sure. Until then, see you on the road!
9.24.07
A GOOD YEAR FOR MUSIC, MY UPCOMING TOUR, & ED GEIN
I'm catching up on all my review fodder here, seeing as I took so long to make all those rhyming ones last month. And in that time a shit ton of records accumulated and so now I'm getting them all out of the way like a great cleansing wildfire of written word- scathing, smokey, yet brilliantly beautiful from a distance. Thankfully, a lot of these records were absolute scorchers in their own right, further leading me to observe that 2007 is shaping up to be a really damn good year for music (yes, there is hope). In this edition you'll find the latest from Soul Control, Torche, Bridge and Tunnel, Engineer, Coalesce, Ringers, Modern life Is War, Coliseum, Baroness, Attitude, and many more (37 total I think?).
In other news, I spoke earlier of touring this Fall. Some things have changed, and others remain the same. Early October I will be on the road with my own band Mistletoe in the Northeast. We still need a little assistance, mostly in the Northern PA/Ohio area on a couple weekdays. If you've got the gumption, and you enjoy rock, I highly suggest you hook it up for us. We're sort of cute. We're good company... really. That September tour with Minor Times and Engineer has been pushed back to mid-late October. I won't be able to get on this, as I have other obligations. But maybe I'll pack them a basket of Hex goods to take along with them, much like poisoned muffins. From October 19th-27th I will be on tour with Peter Young. No, there will be no music. It's a speaking tour that this recently free political prisoner is embarking on, and I'll be the driver. I'll probably bring my distro anyway. Come on out, get inspired, go vegan. I'll have the final dates for all this stuff posted on my MySpace page in the next week or so. So go check it out if you have a few minutes and maybe come out and say 'hi!'
Finally, the Ed Gein vinyl for "Judas Goats and Dieseleaters" is out. It looks really cool and you ought to buy one or two. The 'official' release date (like when stores will have it) isn't until October 9th, but you can get the limited pressing through me only, and you can get it now. Just sayin'.
8.24.07
DISTRIBUTION STUFF
Ya know what I've noticed as of late? That postage is fucking expensive! These new rates are seriously taking a toll, so thanks Time Warner you cocksucking mutants for further squashing the little guys. With that said I'd like to let you folks know about some of the people and places that carry Hex stuff. I love sending out orders direct to people, and I'll keep doing it. But I just wanted to let people know (especially people outside the U.S.) that many of the items in the Hex catalog are available through these distributors as well:
Canada- Sonic Unyon
UK- Shellshock
France- Bones Brigade
Europe- Green Hell
So please, by all means, check them out!
Also, I wanted to make mention of a few distributors who have picked up Hex zine #18 (as Lumberjack-Mordam doesn't really carry magazines). Besides myself, these folks now carry it as well:
Revelation
Very
Microcosm
Quimbys
B-Sides
So check into those as well! That's all for now.
8.06.07
NEW REVIEWS
Yes, it has been awhile, but new reviews are up. 'Why the wait?', you ask? Well, between some travelling and other assorted hectic shit all the reviews this month are written in rhyme. That's right. For better or for worse (or to your amusement or annoyed frustration) I challenged myself to write over 25 reviews entirely in rhyme. Let me know what you think. Chances are I'll never subject myself to doing something like this ever again. Thankfully, I got/picked up a bunch of excellent records (some of the best this year) and tried to do poetic justice to them. There was also a bunch of stuff I should have gotten to, but I just couldn't go on... so look for that stuff next time. Next update will include some serious Fall plans. You can also check my MySpace blog (myspace.com/hanginghex) for some of those plans. OK, go read that stuff now.
7.19.07
RANDOM HAPPENINGS AND UPDATES
First off, I got word from the press that the Ed Gein LP will be shipping the first week of August. So that means all pre-orders will go out within two days of me getting them. That means there's still time to pre-order and get the package deals and limited vinyl... so do it up!
Secondly, for the Europeans (particularly the French), beginning in September Hex Records will have a distributor for France. They're called Bones Brigade Records (a pretty bitchin' name I must say) and they will be carrying a select number of our titles. Check them out: http://www.bonesbrigaderecords.com Next on the list... DUDEFEST! Yes indeed, Hex Records will be reppin' at Dude Fest Indiana in good 'ol Indianapolis (actually, I've never been to Indianapolis) July 27th and 28th. Show up, say 'hi', watch a ton of awesome bands, buy my stuff. You know how it goes. I'll be the short balding guy in some corner with my miniscule box of wares. But all of it is good... oh yes. Next... bands on tour!
Engineer is on the road with Coliseum and their bitchin' new record on BMA just came out.
The Helm is on a national tour (their first time on the East Coast, woot, woot!) so go see them in some dank grimey basement while they shred your face off. Ed Gein is on the road with Gaza and Genghis Tron and, this just in, they have already broken down and are completing the tour with the help of their tourmates shuttling them across the South and Midwest. So shows those boys your love and make sure you see them because it's probably the last time they will tour in 2007!
Finally, google 'Achilles Hospice" and see all the rad reviews that pop up. The press is spreading like wildfire and I am quite surprised myself! They really like them! They really do. Some new reviews have popped up on Lambgoat, Punknews, and even the Pittsburgh Daily News. Plus, look for some features/articles that they either just were in or will be in, in the pages of Decibel, Alternative Press, and Wonka Vision... not bad!
And that's it.
Now watch this: http://youtube.com/watch?v=9YYMw1_FZL8
7.04.07
ED GEIN PRE-ORDER
OK, it's finally up. The Ed Gein pre-order stuff is up and ready. There are a few choices for pre-order package deals so check them out. If you're going to order a shirt make sure you specify in your order whether you want small, medium, or large. Those are the only sizes available. Orders should be ready in about a month!
The vinyl pressing will be as follows:
100-grey/brown splatter
450- red/clear judas goat splatter
450- brown/clear dieseleater splatter
All pre-orders will automatically get the grey/brown splatter while supplies last unless you prefer another color. If that's the case just let me know in your order!
Secondly, our good friends in The Helm are embarking on their firsr full U.S. tour in a couple weeks. Make sure you go and see them. They still have a few holes in their itinerary so go to the tours section, check where they're playing, and if you live in a town they need a show in, for pete's sake, hook something up!
6.11.07
ED GEIN LP
Hi! Well, the Ed Gein LP art is done and off to the press. I should have some idea of a timeline in a few days and I'll put up the pre-order info then just so everyone can have an idea of when to expect it (I don't want people to pay and have to wait too long). But just to give an idea of things check out the cover art.
To view the rest of the art check artist Jeremy Forson's blog on his site: www.jeremyforson.com
In other news, new reviews are once again posted for your laughing/crying/critiquing pleasure. It was an odd assortment of goods this time around, and I'm not quite sure why I got what I did... but I am merely a conduit for the gods of music to speak through. So with that I bring you reviews of stuff like Pig Destroyer, Go It Alone, Gaza, Lemuria, Bloody Panda, Soul Control, Stabbed By Words, Brain Banger, Blackfire, Oceanspawn, Bergraven, and yes, From Autumn to Ashes. Indeed.
So go look and learn something.
5.29.07
JEREMY FORSON ART
I'm excited about this. And you should be too. After over a year I can definitely say the 12" for "Judas Goats..." by Ed Gein will be out. You know why? Because I finally got the artwork. Really. Artist Jeremy Forson (www.jeremyforson.com) has taken the original visuals for the record and transformed them into his own new vision which looks pretty desoloate, mean, stark, and some other adjectives that should put some fear in your heart. I'll put up some art in the next few days to show you I'm not kidding, and then the pre-orders will begin. No shit.
5.22.07
HANGING LIKE A HEX & ENGINEER STUFF
Finally! The new (and final) issue of Hanging like a Hex is back from the printers! So all you folks that did the pre-order deal for the Achilles cd will be getting an extra package in the next few days for the zine. And if you didn't order, why are you waiting? It's the best reading you'll get in print all year damnit... so throw away any and all textbooks of higher learning.
In other news... our friends in Engineer are dropping their new full-length, "The Dregs", on July 10th via Black Market Activities (cd) and Teenage Disco Bloodbath (vinyl). They've linked a couple songs for you to check out in the meantime. It's just as good, if not better than, "Reproach" (and if you don't have that yet... well, geez, get it already... damn). Check the tours page too for their upcoming summer dates with the one and only Coliseum.
'Scala Natura' myspace.com/engineercooldude
you can download a different song off of the Metal Blade website here:
'The Thinning Cynic' http://www.metalblade.com/english/artists/engineer/releases.php
5.16.07
PRESS, PRESS, AND MORE PRESS!
So, as a bit of a surprise to me, there's already a lot of good press going around for the new Achilles cd. If you haven't picked it up yet you have problems. But if my insult doesn't convince you check some of the hyperbole being thrown it's way:
A weird one from howsyouredge.com
Plus, look for reviews/features on the dudes in upcoming issues of Decibel and Wonka Vision in the not-too-distant future. In the meantime, they're playing regionally, so check their page for shows and so forth.
On the homefront, a great article/story was just published in the Syracuse New Times, our weekly paper here, regarding the Syracuse music scene. The main part of the story was on the Westcott Community Center, which has been host to most of the best shows in town over the last 10 years. Incedentally, I book a lot of the shows there, and work most of the ones I don't book.
They interviewed me, as well as the guys in Engineer, and if you want to take a gander here's the online link to the story
Finally, many are wondering where the final issue of Hex is. All the Achilles pre-orders that were to include the zine were mailed out and the zine will be mailed separate. Here's what I know: it went to print on Wednesday the 9th, and it's shipping to me from Canada, so I'm expecting it shortly. That's the word as of tonight. Obviously, feel free to order it if interested and it will go out to you as soon as I get them.
4.23.07
Another Antonucci
Great news everyone... not only has Achilles just released their new full-length, but guitarist Rob Antonucci and his wife Mandy have just released their first child upon the world! Congratulations to them on the birth of their daughter Harper Elizabeth! I'm sure she will rock just as hard as her pop, and years later listen to Achilles records and think, 'what the hell is this?!'.... gah, kids these days...
Anyway, send 'em your congratulations and well-wishings!
4.10.07
New Reviews
New reviews are up! Go check them out... there's a bunch of great stuff this time around. Find out what you must have and what you must destroy... heed my words.
Also, people who pre-ordered just the Achilles cd should be getting their orders within a week. Those who ordered the package deal might have to wait another week for the zines to get back from the printers. That's all the news for now!
3.21.07
Preorder the new Achilles
Spring is here and so is "Hospice", the new Achilles full-length! You can pre-order the record right here! It officially comes out May 8th, but we ought to have them back here and ready to ship by mid-April. Additionally, we're offering a special pre-order deal where you can get the cd, as well as one of two new Hex t-shirt designs, and a copy of the newest (and final) issue of Hanging Like a Hex for $21 (in the U.S.). Make sure you specify which shirt and what size you wear! There's Small, Medium, and Large and they are all American made, sweatshop-free!
Hanging Like a Hex #18 is the last issue of this long running zine and it has taken nearly 4 years to get together. Comepletly ad-free, of unusual size (6.5"x11"), and featuring articles on the mental health industry, stories about working in the mental health field, comics, interviews with Cursed and Paint It Black, and my 100 favorite records ever. It's pretty rad. To top it off it has a cool cover drawn by Mr. Mark Price.
The new shirt designs feature an old design redone. It's the Bad Brains ROIR cover, except with a Syracuse twist on a black t-shirt.
The other is Lee Harvey Oswald getting a musically poisonous injection in the ear from the Crusher on the front, and a delightfully distasteful picture on the back. What was I thinking when I made this? I really have no fucking clue. It just seemed cool at the time. This one is on white.
So there ya go. Order away!
SHIRT 1:
SHIRT 2:
HEX #18:
3.10.07
Achilles:Hospice, Hex#18, Ed Gein:Judas Goats... vinyl
Hi! It's busy as hell here getting all the Spring releases/projects in order. As you probably noticed on the splash page that is the cover of the new Achilles cd. The 'official' release date is May 8th, but it says available in April because that's when they'll actually be back from the press and ready for pre-order.
Also, Hanging Like a Hex #18 is nearly finished and ready for printing. The cover has been sent out, now just to polish up the insides and get that out. There will be a couple new Hex shirt designs available real soon too. Keep an eye peeled for those.
And as for the Ed Gein, "Judas Goats..." vinyl, artist Jeremy Forson (Bafabegiya, Blues, etc) is working on the new design and ought to have it wrapped up in a couple weeks where it can then be pressed.
All these projects will be available for pre-order in April and I'm going to be putting together some special package deals where you can order some or all of these new items for a discounted price.
It's going to be a crazy Spring over here, so keep checking back for more info.
Also, in the tours section check out all the stuff Engineer will be up to in the next couple of months. They will be out with Tides for a couple weeks in April, then a week with American Heritage, and in July they'll be out with the one and only Coliseum. Good for them!
2.12.07
A bunch of new stuff
coming this spring
Hey! It's been awhile. But there's a good reason- I've been busy as all get out preparing new stuff that will be coming out in the Spring. So sit down (if you aren't already) and check out all this new stuff:
- First and foremost, Achilles new full-length, "Hospice" is done! The artwork is almost completed, and mastering occurs first week of March. The official release date is May 8th, but I'll have them up for pre-order probably by the end of March. Seriously, this record is awesome. The band has grown so much and these new songs simply show how much ass they have yet to kick in the hardcore arena.
- Secondly, the vinyl for "Judas Goats and Dieseleaters" by Ed Gein is going to actually come out! No shit! The main issue with this record was all the difficulty we'd been having getting the artist responsible to actually finish the art. So after a year of waiting that guy got kicked to the curb and the talented Jeremy Forson has stepped up to the plate to slap together a great design. If you're not familiar with his work he has done recent records for Blues and Bafabegiya. You can view his art at www.jeremyforson.com. If all goes well this ought to be seeing the light of day about the same time as the Achilles record. No official date just yet though.
- Third, this is a big one too... there is actually going to be a Hanging Like a Hex issue #18. Yes, after three + years it will be out. I'm currently in the process of editing out the crap, adding new and exciting content, and even some illustrations. This will be the final issue though, no doubt about that. Once again, May is looking like the time for this guy.
- And, a little later, perhaps the Summer, it looks like Hex is going to release the final outpput of the late, great Playing Enemy. I'd been talking to these chaps since last Summer, trying to get something together for them. Then they went and called it quits. But before all this they were able to record a handful of new songs (which are really dmn good by the way) and this is what we'll end up releasing for them. We have to figure out some mastering job for them, a neat little package, and an exact time/deadline for this. But I'm excited to let the cat out of the bag about it.
- I'm also in the process of making a couple t-shirts (one old design and one new one) for the label that ought to be pretty snappy, as well as some new stickers that will go out with all orders. Yes, it's going to be a hugely productive year here with all sorts of neat projects... if you could see my thumbs they'd be pointed at my head showing just who is excited. Me. That's who.
OK, also... there are brand new reviews up! I wanted to write up a few more but then I realized there were already almost 40 written, so best to just keep it at that. Plus, it's been awhile since new reviews went up, so go check those out. I gotta admit, I wasn't too into a lot of the stuff I got. But who am I to complain? I get free records to listen to. But hey, my opinion is important. Zozobra, The Helm, 7000 Dying Rats, Capital, a bunch of literary stuff from the Microcosm crew, Die Hoffnung, Titan, Pusher, Monolith, Aereogramme, and plenty more go under the microscope this time around.
And totally finally, some Hex-related sort of news for you folks:
-Engineer are currently recording their new full length (and first for BMA) called "The Dregs" right here in Syracuse at the always swanky Moresound Studio... so far nothing short of incredible.
-Jesse from Ed Gein not only moved into my house and is a fine cook, but he is now part owner of the excellent Recess Coffee Shop in the Westcott neighborhood of Syracuse. The place rules and if you're ever in the area I highly recommend checking it out. Visit their MySpace for details: www.myspace.com/recesscoffee
- Mr. Rob Antonucci, guitarist extrordinaire of Achilles and the missus are expecting the release of not only their new record, but of their baby daughter, Harper Elizabeth Antonucci, into the world. A tentative release date of mid-April is expected. Wish them the best!
- Congratulations to Anthony and Katie Tornabene, who had their first (twins!) a few weeks ago! Anthony and Aiden Tornebene are already Yankees fans from what I hear. Papa Tony was my former bandmate in The Funeral and we were awesome. He currently drums for the father-infested My Way.
And that's a wrap! Whew!
1.4.07
Top 10 Albums from '06
Happy New Year people! So far the year has already been pretty crazy, but
let's not look to the future OK? The past is always better anyway. So with
that I thought it would be kind of cool to get some Top 10 lists from
current and former Hex Records alumnus. Check them out:
RORY VAN GROL
Vocals, Achilles and How We Are/ Knows a thing or two 'bout a thing or two
Mastodon- Blood Mountain
Engineer- Reproach
Have Heart- Things We Carry
Capital- Signal Corps
Polar Bear Club- The Redder The Better
Another Breath- Mill City
Gnarls Barkley- St. Elsewhere
Jose Gonzalez- Veneer
Mono- You Are There
The Evens- Get Evens
CHRIS BROWNE
Drums, Achilles/ guitar, Polar Bear Club/ eater of little children
Damiera - M(us)ic
The Draft - In A Million Pieces
Converge - No Heroes
Death Cab For Cutie - Plans
Heavens - Patent Pending
John Mayer - Continuum
How We Are - To Teach a Hundred
Engineer - Reproach
Brand New - The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me
Deftones - Saturday Night Wrist
Honorable Mentions: Saves The Day - Sound The Alarm, Fifth Hour Hero - Not Revenge...Just a Vicious Crush, Lucero - Rebels, Rogues, & Sworn Brothers
RYAN GORHAM
Guitar, Engineer/ All this time I thought his name was 'cool dude'
Old Man Gloom - Seminar III: Zozobra LP (Magic Bullet)
Cursed - Blackout at Sunrise (Goodfellow Records)
Young Widows - Settle Down City (Jade Tree)
These Arms Are Snakes - Easter (Jade Tree)
Deftones - Saturday Night Wrist (Warner Bros.)
Mastodon - Blood Mountain (Reprise)
Converge - No Heroes (Epitaph)
Eagles Of Death Metal - Death By Sexy (Downtown)
Thom Yorke - The Eraser (XL)
Botch - CD/DVD (Hydra Head)
BRAD GORHAM
Bass, Engineer/ AKA Kovacs
jesu - silver
thom yorke - eraser
these arms are snakes - easter
converge - no heroes
young widows - settle down city
isis - in the absence of truth
cult of luna - somewhere along the highway
battle of mice - a day of nights
red sparowes - every red heart shines toward the red sun
tragedy - nerve damage
TIM LEO
guitar, The Minor Times/ Relapse design slave
Melvins/ Big Business
The Blackfire Revelation (I don't think it was actually released but i
got a demo this past spring and I haven't stopped listening to it)
Engineer
Gunna Vahm
Haram
Jesu
KEN Mode
Celebrity Murders
Knut
Young Widows
I also really liked black cobra / black elk / intronaut / tragedy / mouth of the architect / converge / thom yorke / kylesa / tv on the radio / skitsystem (did that come out in 06?)
BRIAN MEDLIN
Drums, The Minor Times/ octopus arms
Thom Yorke - The Eraser
The Bronx - The Bronx II
Sparta - Threes
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Show Your Bones
And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead - So Divided
The Deftones - Saturday Night Wrist
Amy Millan - Honey From the Tombs
The Roots - Game Theory
Young Widows - Settle Down City
Beck - The Information
honorable mentions go to: jet, converge, the raconteurs, engineer, cat power, the strokes, regina spektor, and ken mode
BOB SWIFT
Vokills, The Helm/ Cheats on top lists
My Top Eleven Releases of 2006:
Black SS - Foreign Object
Rocky Votolato - Makers
Betrayed - Substance
No Idols - Low (Swing the pyramid hands)
How We Are/Black SS - Split
Thom Yorke - The Eraser
Tragedy - Nerve Damage
Monolith - Demo
Avail - Dixie
Avail - 4AM Friday
Avail - Over the James
SEAN PATRICK RHORER
Invisible Youth PR guy/ Likes the label and loves life
Have Heart "The Things We Carry"
Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins "Rabbit Furcoat"
Belle & Sebastian "The Life Pursuit"
Old Crow Medicine Show "Big Iron World"
Government Warning "No Moderation"
Fucked Up "Hidden World"
mewithoutYou "Brother, Sister"
Neko Case "Fox Confessor Brings The Flood"
Robot Whales "Vehicle"
Off With Their Heads "Hospitals"
ERIC HAAG
Web guy - No time for music anymore
beck - the information
the shins - wincing the night away (leaked)
thom yorke - the eraser
the roots - game theory
the raconteurs - broken boy soldiers
brian eno/david byrne - my life in the bush of ghosts (reissue)
modeselektor - hello mom
dangerdoom - the mouse and the mask
gnarls barkley - st elsewhere
cat power - the greatest
RYAN HEX
Big cheese/ Cold-blooded sonovabitch
Fucked Up, "Hidden World" (Jade Tree)
Channels, "Waiting For the Next End Of the World" (Dischord)
Mandate Of Heaven, "Hun In the Sun" (self-released)
End Of a Year, "Sincerely" (Revelation)
Engineer, "Reproach" (Hex)
Young Widows, "Settle Down City" (Jade Tree)
Thoughts Of Ionesco, "The Scar Is Our Watermark" (Seventh Rule)
Polar Bear Club, "The Redder the Better" (get it from them)
Chavez, "Better Days Will Haunt You" (Matador)
All the travelling I did this year minus a job