PEARS talk their new LP
PEARS have a busy 2020 ahead of themselves: a self-titled release is out today, it's their first LP in four years, and they've got a heavy touring schedule on the horizon. Drummer Jarret Nathan spoke to Punknews' Mike Elfers, taking a deep dive into the group's discography, upcoming album release, and sharing drum gear with his idols.
The Saturday Afternoon Movie: 'Two Worlds' by Andy Lefton
Welcome back to the Punknews Saturday afternoon movie! Today we are thrilled to show Two Worlds by Andy Lefton of War//Plague!
In War//Plague, Lefton grinds out nasty, mean as hell crusty riffs. But, as a digital animator, Lefton's view is decidedly more hopefull. Often drawing from Speilberg, Lucas, and Henson, Andy makes films that scare as much as they delight, and are at once dark and optimistic.
Two Worlds, starts off with a robot crashing his ship and then follows the little guy as he tries to recover from the crash… but will he meet friend or foe in his new home, an uncharted wasteland? Watch the short film below to find out, and stick around for a short interview with Lefton himself! You can also check out Andy's other works here!
Jack Terricloth and Scott Hollingsworth talk World/Inferno's new LP
The new World/Inferno Friendship Society album is an accomplishment. It's the band's most multi-faceted, most genre hopping, most psychedelic release, and that's saying something for this band of circus-punk-anarchists who have already released albums about astral projection, Peter Lorre's tortured life, and summoning gourd-dieities from hell. All Borders are Porous to Cats tells the tale of a cat, that jsut happens to be in a hat, as he scurries away from the crushing manacles of a corrupt government that wants lock people in cages for simply being different… sound familiar? You can read all about it below.
Ceschi's past, present and future
Punknews’ David “Punkbanker74” recently had the opportunity to have a brief chat with hip hop/punk/folk crossover artist Ceschi to discuss the first two pieces of a “Final” trilogy for the artist, and what this means for his future musical endeavors.
April Hartman on Sobriety, Running a Non-Profit, and becoming a headliner
Punknews writer David "Punkbanker74" Wilkins recently caught up with April Hartman of Apes of the State, to chat about sobriety, the birth of the "Apes," and their hilarious, yet eye opening, publicity stunt around the release of one of their singles.
Italy's Latte+ on their new album
For over 20 years, the Italian trio LATTE+ have been spreading their brand of Ramones inspired punk rock throughout various venues all over Europe. For their newest album, the band is attempting to reach a more global audience with their first American vinyl release via ProRawk Records, a DIY label based out of the Chicago area. Punknews' Pete Vincelli had a chance to chat with guitarist and lead vocalist, Chicco. Check out the interview below.
The New Rochelles x Ramones
We are pleased to bring to you a Punknews exclusive artist on artist interview between bassist Rookie Rochelle of Long Beach, NY’s The New Rochelle and drummer Richie Ramone. See below to check out the conversation.
On November 8th my bandmates in The New Rochelles and I (Rookie Rochelle) released a full cover album of Ramones 9th studio album Animal Boy on Hey Pizza! Records. This had been a passion project that we had been working on for a long time and the excitement of it finally being released has been overwhelming. It is no surprise that I wear my influences on the sleeve of my LJ, so being part of a project like this felt right and I hope the die-hard Ramones fans worldwide will enjoy our version for years to come. I am excited to bring you an interview I conducted with Richie Ramone. Drummer of The Ramones from ’83 - ’87, author, actor, relentless touring musician and all-around great guy. Sit back, put on your favorite Ramones t-shirt, blast our version of Animal Boy, crack open a Budweiser and check out the interview.
Talking traditional metal and more with Idle Hands
In November Punknews writer Jason Baygood caught up with Gabriel Franco of Portland's Idle Hands at their Chicago stop while on tour with the legendary King Diamond. In the interview they talk about Franco's past, Idle Hand's present and future, as well as what is happening with the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal (NWOTHM).
Vinnie Caruana on scrapping an album, touring solo, and friendship
Punknews’ Eric Rosso caught up with Vinnie Caruana on his most recent solo tour at its Philadelphia stop. Vinnie Caruana released his latest solo effort Aging Frontman earlier this year on Know Hope Records. The pair talked about the decision that led him to scrap an entire album before the release, the writing process behind Aging Frontman, and caught up on future plans with the prolific frontman’s other band I Am The Avalanche.
Punks on Politics: Getting to know Mel Gagarin
Some of the most prolific reactions and statements to the current and historical political histories has been made by punks. Punks have been making protest songs and jabs at the political state in hopes for change. With that in mind it is no coincidence that there has been an ongoing rise of passionate and bright alternative folks who are running against the current regime. Mel Gagarin, singer and guitarist of New York City punk band Scarboro announced in July, Mel for Progress, his run for congress in the Sixth Congressional District in Queens, New York. Editor Samantha Barrett sat with Mel Gagarin to chat about his run for office.