Micro Edge: '83 Demo 12"

Micro Edge: '83 Demo 12"


Tags: · 80s · Canada · hardcore · recommended · reissues · spo-default · spo-disabled · USHC
Regular price
Sold out
Sale price
$18.00

In the works for a couple decades now, this holy grail of early Toronto hardcore finally sees wax. Culling the best takes from three ‘83 studio sessions, this is pure ‘80s HC in the vein of SS Decontrol, Abused, The Fix, Negative Approach, YDI, Urban Waste and early Agnostic Front.  An essential piece of punk history, 17 tracks cut loud at 45 with 16-page 8.5" x 11" zine. One-time pressing of 500 only. 



Our take: Archival release from this 80s hardcore band from Toronto. I had heard Micro Edge’s name mentioned in the recent Tomorrow Is Too Late book on Toronto hardcore and on the Turned Out a Punk podcast, but this is the first time I’ve heard them. While I wouldn’t put this on the first tier of 80s hardcore classics, it’s an excellent release that proves that the well of great 80s North American hardcore is virtually bottomless. Micro Edge combine elements of California hardcore and skate rock with the tougher east coast sound of bands like Agnostic Front, the Abused, and Minor Threat. ’83 Demo reminds me of Ill Repute’s What Happens Next? LP, but with more of an east coast toughness and attitude. The music is excellent and will scratch your itch if you love obscure 80s hardcore, but the packaging here is at least as interesting. The beautiful layout is full of the 80s skateboard imagery I love, and the insert is actually issue #6 of the 80s skate / music zine Bong Out. In addition to a short history of Micro Edge, it also gives us some thoughtful and hilarious insight on how today’s skateboard culture compares with the 80s. If you’re an adult who has skateboard decks hanging on your walls as decoration (which, I must admit, I am), you will love this.