JOINT D≠ MRR Review

Before the review, a back-story is in order: the band reviewed here used to be called JOINT D____. However, just when the record I’m holding was being printed/pressed, a letter arrived from the attorneys of a Rhode Island band of the same time, ordering them to stop using the name under threat of legal action. Despite the shitty timing, the record is now out, bearing the old name in some places, where it was too late to change (liket the center record label), and the new name in others, plus a great photocopy of the aforementioned letter in all of its snooty lawyer-lingo glory. Now back to the review: like many of the excellent acts in the fertile state of North Carolina (Double Negative, Stripmines, etc.) Joint D≠ are making unique and forward-thinking punk that blends disparate sounds and defies expectations. Self-described as somewhere between the Wipers and Gauze, Joint D≠ deals in fast songs, overlaid with a barrage of frenzied yet treble-y guitar that is equal parts hardcore and dissonant meandering. While I certainly wouldn’t describe it as “gentle,” the record title seems like a fitting description in its combination of clean guitar and aggressive songwriting. If you’re the least bit curious about new or unexpected directions in punk (something there isn’t really much of in this day and age), I strongly advise you not to sleep on this.

second press on the way: http://www.sorrystaterecords.com/