Tony Yanick was kind of enough to send me a link to his latest project State Execution's 2014 demo which is available for free online by clicking the link at the bottom of the page. Nothing fancy or forced here, six tracks of blistering UK inspired street punk / Oi! comparable to the UK Subs, Blitz, and modern bands like Criminal Damage. Personally I like the thinner production on the recording and the distance of the vocals in the mix (along with nice touch of well placed reverb) compliments the distorted buzz saw guitar tone and gives the tracks a sense of attitude without coming across forced or a disguise for lack of knowledge in the studio. These songs are well put together and have some great hooks and catchy choruses, particularly "Blank Cross" which makes you want to grab your Black Label and head up to the front of the stage to rage. Two guitars work well for State Execution and the lead playing is well supported on tracks like "Coffin Shopper" where the rhythms are kept alive strongly throughout some wild punk soloing. "Yellow Ribbons" is definitely the strongest track with the most powerful riff and vocal delivery, although the drums could stand to be a little louder in the mix which is my only complaint about the sound and overall demo. If you're a fan of classic 70s / early 80s UK punk or Oi! this is definitely a band worth checking out. These guys have been paying their underground dues in various bands throughout the years so it's no surprise that their new project is this caliber. High energy, high quality punk rock from Cleveland, OH, the future should be bright for State Execution.
http://stateexecution.bandcamp.com/
- Joe