Total Massacre released their debut full-length in 2018. Since then, this Los Angeles-based hardcore punk band has been blessing us with some of the best political punk come out in ages. Proudly anti-racist, anti-fascist, and anti-capitalist, Total Massacre offers up cathartic aggression with their music.
Given how long they’ve been a band, it’s pretty easy to determine which regime they’ve targeted most. If you’re ready for an onslaught of truth, then it’s time to listen to this band.
January saw the release of their first of many digital singles that you can hear throughout the first half of 2021. With “Get Rich or Die Trying,” the band is singing about us being the commodities for sale. You can download the single for free on their Bandcamp page, or stream it from your favorite music service.
Total Massacre guitar player Mike Massacre recently chatted with us about music. Specifically, he gave us a glimpse into what his favorite album is, as well as one of the most overrated and underrated albums out there.
Favorite Album
“The Go-Go’s, Beauty and the Beat. I can listen to this album every day for the rest of my life. The combination of Charlotte Caffey and Jane Wieland on guitars and songwriting duties, help lift this album high above the vast wasteland of new wave music in the early ’80s.
Don’t let the pop hooks and sweet voice of Belinda Carlisle fool you, as these songs are deeply embedded in their LA punk rock roots and these girls take absolutely no shit from anybody. Gina Schock is a criminally underrated drummer, by the way. Do not underestimate “Can’t Stop the World”, written by Kathy Valentine. This might be the best song on the album and possibly the best three chord song written since “Words of Love” by Buddy Holly.”
Overrated Album
“Led Zeppelin, Physical Graffiti. Double albums are never a good idea. Even some of the greats, such as the mighty London Calling and The White Album are unnecessarily tarnished by a cluster of throwaways. It is a shame because this double album could be Led Zeppelin’s greatest album. Physical Graffiti starts off strong with a terrific Side One, a nearly perfect Side Two, then quickly falls flat on its face with side Four which is marred with “Bron Y Aur” and “Down by the Seaside.” Side Four swiftly fades into oblivion with rubbish like “Boogie with Stu.” I like it, but it is as hyped as IPA and Billy Joel.”
Underrated Album
“Gouge Away – ,Dies. This band is a powerhouse, and this album is jam packed with politically charged songs that are intense and sincere as fuck. Too many punk bands with political leanings are either too disingenuous or rely heavily on formulaic topics with totally unclear purposes. This album really hits the mark and is both compelling and heartfelt. The riffage is brutal, and the beats and vocals cut through your soul. Highly recommended.”
