The Casualties at The Mason Jar, 2303 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale.
8 p.m. March 19. All Ages. 602.954.0455.
People always describe punk music as powerful, and they may be right; some of it actually is. However, lately, the word powerful has become a word popularly used to describe pop-punk bands like Good Charlotte and Simple Plan. I do not believe Simple Plan is a powerful band. I am not one of those people who toss the word about lightly. It's kind of like the "L" word-use it if you mean it. So, know that when I call The Casualties powerful, I mean it in the truest sense.
The Casualties is a strong band that writes raw, intelligent, socially conscious punk rock music. They fearlessly enlighten audiences to their way of life in a brazen and honest way.
If you have never heard of The Casualties, I'll take this opportunity to sum them up. Mixing the likes of Bad Brains and Oi! Punk, the band to creates its own brand of punk, making a clear distinction between their style and that of 'poser punk.'
The band is currently at a peak in its career. Since their inception in 1991, The Casualties have had several line-up changes. The current members have been together since 1996, when they released one of their best albums, For The Punx.
They have since released three more albums. The most current is On The Front Line (SideOneDummy), which was recorded in the studio owned by Black Flag legend, Bill Stevenson.
The band not only has Stevenson's stamp of approval, but mine as well (While my stamp is less recognizable, it is still meaningful in and of itself).
There is a political undertone to their music, but they are still crazy partiers. Their shows are energy-filled, chaotic events.
Those who are spending their spring break locally are able to join in the tomfoolery with The Casualties on March 19 at the Mason Jar.
Reach the reporter at chelsea.ide@asu.edu.
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