Usman's Staff Pick: February 23, 2023

Hello and thanks for reading! When this week first began I planned to write about ΠΥΡ ΚΑΤΑ ΒΟΥΛΗΣΗ (PYR KATA VOULISI), but it has since sold out. If you haven’t checked out the band, I definitely would cos I think this top-notch hardcore at its finest!! I’ve never heard of them before; I don’t think they even have a demo released. When you rip this hard, why bother? They don’t really play super fast, but the riffing is non-stop. The songs are insanely catchy yet absolutely raging. They sound similar to HERÄTYS, who are one of the best bands ever. And of course, ΠΥΡ ΚΑΤΑ ΒΟΥΛΗΣΗ and HERÄTYS both sound like they have a heavy influence from Swedish legends TOTALITÄR. Speaking of legendary Swedish bands, that leads us into my staff pick. Let me start off with the photo. This photo was taken in 1986 by Anders Holmqvist at the “Egg-mangel” gig. Anders is a long-time Sorry State customer and friend. He was a music nerd back then just as much as he is today (if not more maybe?). He’s constantly giving newer bands short, honest reviews on his Instagram account. I am so happy and honored he shared photos from this gig with me, especially cos now I can share this one with you! This gig is how I think I first heard SVART PARAD because it was recorded and released on cassette after, and then fortunately re-released in the ‘90s on vinyl by Your Own Jailer. Based on what it says inside the vinyl version, I am pretty sure Jan Jutila (YOJ) released the tape. He definitely organized the entire gig. I think SVART PARAD is kind of obscure amongst other Swedish bands. They never had a proper vinyl release in the 80s, only some cassettes, and the information about them is a bit confusing. I remember reading online that the band was influenced by MINOR THREAT, and that one really caught me off guard, haha. There have been a few SVART PARAD bootlegs over the years and F.O.A.D. did a SVART PARAD discography not too long ago. But still, to me nothing beats having a reissue that emulates the original. The packaging on this cassette is awesome, but that is a given since it is on Outsider Classics. They did amazing Swedish cassette reissues like MISSBRUKARNA and NISSES NOTTER previously, so I was filled with anticipation immediately when I saw this reissue. I would die for a DISACCORD cassette reissue… Anyway, if you aren’t familiar with SVART PARAD and enjoy raging Swedish hardcore, I would check this one out and grab a copy! Cheers and thanks to everyone (especially Anders)!!!


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