Features

Strife Take on Void’s “Who Are You?” (PREMIERE)

Photo: Dan Rawe

On November 10, the folks at Bridge Nine Records will be releasing xXx Fanzine 1983-1988 Hardcore & Punk in the Eighties, the long-awaited book from scene historian and record label executive, Mike Gitter. In addition to reproducing (and restoring) countless interviews and pages from his original zine, the 288-page book also features updated interviews Mike conducted with members of Minor Threat, Bad Brains, Suicidal Tendencies, Negative Approach, Cro-Mags, and many more key hardcore and punk figures.

Bridge Nine has also announced the book will be accompanied by a 19-song compilation, Still Having Their Say. The record features such bands as Trial, Shai Hulud, Tombs, Voivod, and Fu Manchu contributing their interpretations of some of the finest songs from the era when Mike originally was releasing his zine. So, to be clear, you get both the book and the compilation for the price of one. Whoa.

Today, I'm psyched to bring you the exclusive premiere of Strife's ripping version of the Void classic, "Who Are You?"

"We recorded this cover song over three years ago," Strife guitarist Andrew Kline told me about the cover. "Mike Gitter wanted to put together a comp to accompany the release of his book and we were one of the first bands that he asked. [Strife vocalist] Rick [Rodney] had the idea of doing the Void cover."

Strife's refreshed take on the DC hardcore anthem definitely has their LAHC stamp all over it, and Andrew let me know that it was certainly by design. "Instead of simply doing a cover and really trying to stay true to the original, we took a few liberties and reimagined the song as if it was something that we wrote currently. I love the chaos and dissonance of Void, but I think our version of 'Who Are You?' hits hard and gives the song a new life. I am really excited to check out the finished book as well as the whole comp, and we are happy to be a part of such a cool project."

Look for more information regarding xXx Fanzine (1983-1988) Hardcore & Punk in the Eighties to surface soon and if you live in the Boston area, there will be a book release party/show on Nov. 9 at Once Ballroom in Somerville, MA featuring performances from The Proletariat, Siege, and more.

Pre-order xXx Fanzine (1983-1988) Hardcore & Punk in the Eighties directly from Bridge Nine Records.

Tagged: strife