At the start of every year, we like to do a post on the cool new bands just getting started. But, near the year's end, we like to counter that article with a list of legends that are still doing their legendary thang. Perhaps moreso than other genres, punk is a genre where long running bands can release some of the best, if not the very best, albums of their career. For proof of that, you need look no further than 2016 where A LOT of punk heroes straight up released some killer, killer records.
So, check out our list of 16 (or so) bands that have been around for 25 years or more, that are still playing live, that released a record this year. As always, this isn't intended as "the objectively best punk veterans of 2016." It's just a list of long-running bands that we think are cool. By all means, post your picks below.
Antiseen
We're # One! To some people, Antiseen will always be GG Allin's backing band. That does a great disservice to their significant legacy. While 1991's Murder Junkies is a classic, it's only one record in the bands sizable discography. Since 1983, Antiseen has been playing their signature 'Destructo Rock'. It's basically hardcore punk with a hillbilly flare. Antiseen's future looked murky after the 2014 death of founding guitarist Joe Young, but sole original member and singer Jeff Clayton has persevered. 2016's We're # One! is a 12-inch EP and the bands first significant post Young release. More than 30 years into their career, Antiseen still loves wrestling and still feels dangerous and menacing. -Tom Trauma
Bl'ast
Split with Eyehategod Bl'ast! is a punk/hardcore/proto grunge band originally formed in Santa Cruz, CA in 1983. They put out three influential albums before disbanding in 1991. Since reforming in 2013, Bl'ast! has become a supergroup of sorts. Original singer Clifford Dinsmore and guitarist Mike Neider were first joined by bassist Chuck Dukowski (Black Flag, FLAG) and drummer Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters). Now they feature bassist Nick Oliveri (Dwarves, Queens of the Stone Age, Mondo Generator) and drummer Joey Castillo (Wasted Youth, Sugartooth, Danzig, QotSA). Their 2016 split with New Orleans sludgemasters EYEHATEGOD proves that Bl'ast! still has their chops. -Tom Trauma