Many of the general population when
asked about punk music think of degenerates, uneducated, disrespectful, dirty kids.
However, when it comes to punk, especially hardcore, there is deeper meaning
and deeper intellect. One of the most intriguing bands sonically and lyrically enacting
this deeper meaning is Redbait. The band hails from St. Louis Missouri. They mix
angst, anger, intellect, activism, and a fistful of ambivalence straight into
their sound. It would be easy for some to just pass this band off as just
another hardcore, powerviolence, thrash, or metal band; but the truth is, this
is a modern hardcore band. Not only that, they are purely activist minded, this
is easily seen in their music and lyrics.
Recently, the band was kind enough
to answer a few questions and discuss their views on politics, musical
influence, and what it means to be in a band in this current political and
social climate. An interesting note to give, though, is that there are only two
named members of the band. But don’t let that fool you, this isn’t a gimmick or
ploy for fans, it is to stay true to who they are and what their music stands
for. Anti-establishmentarianism, revolt and outrage against oppression, and
purely giving a message of fighting against a system that seeks to control the
masses. As previously mentioned, I had the opportunity to ask the band a few questions
and was able to get some great responses.
In regards to politics, what ideologies and support is
most centrally themed in this band?
“Marxism
would be the common thread. Dialectical Materialism and demand-side economics...Most
of us are straight edge or vegan [as well].”
What is the most important point you’d want to get across
to new and old listeners?
“Abolish
private property, abolish the state”
The views on politics, and lifestyle
are very strong and central themes throughout all of Redbaits releases, but
most notably in their newest
release from New Age Records, the band talks about everything from Ferguson
to the border crisis. Refusing to pull punches, the band takes aim at leaders
on both sides, and individuals complicit with a broken system. Anger, rage, thought
provoking, emotional, beautiful; all words I can use to describe this Cages.
In mentioning activism, the band had this to say in who they support.
What activist groups do you support or belong to that have
helped impact you?
‘N’
Using the first initial of their name, so as to focus on the message and music
had this to say: “CPUSA has been my political home. I owe many things including
the formation of this band to my involvement in the Party. The St. Louis Workers
Education Society has been an important vehicle in nearly all of my activism.”
What is important about activism in modern society?
“It is
important in all societies of all eras. Even in we lived in a Socialist Republic,
activism would still be necessary to hold those with some power accountable. Currently
the working-class populace […] has the least power. No reason exists to not be
agitated in these conditions.”
Discussing background and the
formation of this band, I learned a lot of how much music and art played a role
in forming each of who these members are individually, and how they meld their
sound sonically.
What bands got you first into punk and hardcore music?
Answers
for this ranged from AFI to Crass. Members cite Black Flag, Minor Threat, Dead
Kennedys, and Youth of Today as being large influences on their love for punk
and hardcore music.
What are your influences and bands you want to emulate?
Again a
pretty consistent range, but all seemingly in the same vein. The band cited His
Hero is Gone, tragedy, black flag, Catharsis, and Hope Conspiracy.
For those that find interest in
getting into the minds of the songwriters, and even want to know about what
they feel and think outside of art and music. The band had a few answers and
recommendations of reading material as well.
What are some books or artists that you feel would be
important for people to pay attention to?
“The
Sexual Politics of Meat by Carol J. Adams, The State of Revolution and
Imperialism the highest form of Capitalism by Vladimir Lenin, This Bridge
Called My Back by Gloria Anzaldua, Blackshirts and Reds by Michael
Parenti, and The Unwomanly Face of War by Svetlana Alexievich.”
With the newest release, ‘Cages’,
the band took on some difficult topics. A feat for many that could seem
daunting, but Redbait took on the challenge and faced it with full confidence.
Lyrically, no punches were pulled. Sonically, that same ferocity is met with
pounding rhythm, and edgy fast paced guitars. The band fails to let the
listener be calm, but the reprieve is in the message. A message of truth, but
still one that can bring hope. This album is a call to action for those sitting
to the side hoping for the best, but failing to make that change. The most
powerful and important answer of all, it seemed, was what the band had to say
regarding the purpose of this record.
What message did you feel was most important to get
across?
“We
centered the record around the idea of total liberation of all persons and
animals. The records connects a lot of various struggles together and
illustrates how the system is guilty of creating issues.”
This Record is out now and
streaming on Bandcamp. Go
give it a listen, I give it a solid 5/5 and would highly recommend it. It
brings power, and life to any dull situation. This record is a breath of fresh
air and seems to speak on a very important current situation happening in this
very country. It is applicable, and incites riotous thinking, while promoting a
logical mindset to that anger and agitation.
The band can also be seen live via hate5six youtube channel, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHb81YNKxkg
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