Pretty Bullshit/Warm Needles - The Same Shit Everyday split 7"EP (Dig My Grave)

Though largely ignored, Long Island, more specifically Nassau and Suffolk counties, aka everything east of Queens, has a rather vibrant punk scene that swells and recedes every few years. Dig My Grave’s first release seems to foreshadow a much-needed resurgence to the sprawling suburbia.

Pretty Bullshit, a trio comprised of Gerge, Joe and Andrew, offer two songs of emotionally charged punk rock that’s actually reminiscent of old LA punk rock – think the OC hardcore scene or even What Records releases. These are tales of being pushed to the point of breaking, recalling the desperate pleas for release on Black Flag‘s “Nervous Breakdown” EP. Where “Escape from New York” describes an internal struggle, “From Push to Shove” is the unbridled attack after the pressure gauge has popped, the vein is popping out of your forehead and you’re seeing only red rage.

On the flipside, Warm Needles bring us two Gilman St./early Lookout-style tunes, i.e., Crimpshrine, Cringer, Fifteen, possibly some Bouncing Souls as well, though they’re from New Jersey. “Soul Boner” comes across as the confused ranting of a heroin addict, while “Coast Is Toast” is depressed and angry, the sound of one who has been used and abused over and over again. While the early Lookout scene was never really my thing, these songs hold their own and have much to offer in repeated listenings.

This is true punk rock – the sound of alienated individuals venting their innermost feelings in an attempt to connect with anyone who will listen. Hopefully, the message will be heard and inspire more Long Island kids to rise above and say “NO!”