THE FLEX
From the UK, the Flex put out hands down my favorite hardcore punk record so far this year called Wild Stabs in the Dark. Perfect combination of classic 80's Boston hardcore and UK punk. Had a chance to book a Cleveland date for the tour they are on now with Violent Reaction but we couldn't make it work. Hopefully next time.
CRIMINAL INSTINCT
From Atlanta, GA. Hardcore punk the way it should be - fast, pissed, and violent. One of the best sets at this years United Blood Fest, and they've just released their new EP "Fever" on Solid Bond Records. Highly recommended.
STATE EXECUTION
Clevelands own. Ex-members of Masakri, As Good As Dead, Rid the World, etc. The band said it best, spirit of 77, noise of 82. Give them a listen, learn the words, and stomp around Now That's Class when they play Friday, May 30th.
NO TIME
From Pittsburgh, and easily the best band from that area. Traditional Oi/Punk played flawlessly. Ex members of Heartless, and Enabler (I think?) Their demo has been played at least once a day by me for the last couple months. They'll be playing with State Execution on May 30th as well.
WASHINGTON DC
Granted, not a band - but the bands that have been coming out of this area lately have been blowing my mind and making serious waves. Couldn't pick just one. Give, Intent, Red Death, Mob Mentality (RIP), and Zoom are all killing it in my book, and all deserve your attention. Hoping to bring a few (if not all) of these bands out to Cleveland this year. Some of these bands will also be featured on the Triple B comp later this year, America's Hardcore 3 so be on the look out for that too.
Runner up's :
The Marked Men (from Texas)
Creem (from NYC)
Hounds of Hate (from Pennsylvania)
Brain Slug (from NYC)
Altered Boys (from New Jersey)
Heavy Chains (from New Jersey)
-WOODS