AUGUST SPIES
Bald Faced Lie (Peace Land and Bread Recordings)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

---

Not to be confused with the Chicago hardcore and of the same name, August Spies feature former members of Stink and Agit-Pop, and play excellent melodic political punk. Taking their name from the Anarchist Union Organizer who was subsequently hanged for treason after the Chicago Haymarket Riots of 1886, these August Spies (pronounced "spees") crank out four really good songs here with comparisons to vintage Stiff Little Fingers and Clash. "You Don't Believe In Anything" seemingly berates those without an interest in standing up for any cause. "Get Off Our Streets" reminds me a little of Articles Of Faith and Husker Du with its scream-sung vocals, and brings about visions of the WTO protests in our fair city. All four songs rock though, political messages not withstanding, propelled by Stinky Ken's raw vocals and aggressive guitar and Mark Lafalce's excellent drumming.

[Pick this up at www.augustspiesmusic.com.]

© 2003 - Alan Wright