Subject to Change

Personnel: Alec MacKaye (vocals); Eddie Janney, Michael Hampton (guitar); Ivor Hanson (drums).
Audio Remasterer: TJ Lipple.
Liner Note Author: Ian MacKaye.
Recording information: Inner Ear Studios (12/1981/05/1983).
Photographers: Glen E. Friedman; Jim Saah; Malcolm Riviera; Tiffany Pruitt.
For the band's only other release, Edward Janney added some second guitar; otherwise it was hot-wired classic hardcore outrage and self-questioning as before. Don Zientara once again handled the recording, with Hanson's drumming sounding both stronger and also a touch more accomplished than before. Bass and guitar seemed to have switched positions of prominence in the mix, with Hampton's crunch a touch more subtle in the mix and Bald's own crisp work more directly audible. It makes for a calm but interesting contrast; in combination with the fine if not especially original songs, the result is more prime hardcore. Mackaye still screams with passion but also has a little more open ache slipping through here and there, which goes well with the lyrics of songs like "Limitations" and the combination of reflection and call to action in the especially inspiring title track. It all makes for a fine way for this solid band to be remembered. ~ Ned Raggett