Mutations: The Many Strange Faces of Hardcore Punk

Punk is a multifaceted phenomenon that can serve as an outlet, excuse, lifestyle, escape, conversation, community, ideology, sales category, social movement, punishable offense, badge of authenticity, reason to drink beer forever, or aesthetic of belligerent incompetence, with Sam McPheeters championing various versions over two decades. This collection of essays explores the diverse realms he intersected, including New York hardcore, Riot Grrrl, Gilman Street, Olympia, New England, and downtown Los Angeles, as well as the forces of mental illness and creative inspiration that drove him and others.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2020
Publisher: Rare Bird Books

Punk is a multifaceted phenomenon that can evoke a range of emotions and interpretations depending on individual experiences and perspectives. It serves as an outlet for expression, an excuse for behavior, a lifestyle choice, a form of escapism, a means of engaging in conversations, a community, an ideology, a sales category, a social movement, a punishable offense, a badge of authenticity, a reason to drink beer forever, or an aesthetic of belligerent incompetence. While some individuals have a deep-seated belief in what punk represents, others may have equally strong opinions about what it does not.

Sam McPheeters, a prominent figure in the punk scene, has played a significant role in championing various versions of punk over the course of two decades. He fronted Born Against, released numerous records and fanzines, and embarked on seventeen tours across the northern hemisphere. In this collection of essays, profiles, criticism, and personal history, McPheeters explores the diverse realms he intersected, including New York hardcore, Riot Grrrl, Gilman Street, the hidden enclaves of Olympia, and New England, as well as downtown Los Angeles. He delves into the forces of mental illness and creative inspiration that drove him and others to pursue punk in the first place, highlighting the diverse experiences and perspectives within the punk community.

While punk may have no fixed identity, it has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on music, culture, and society as a whole. It has provided a platform for marginalized voices and challenged established norms, fostering a sense of community and empowerment among those who identify with it. Whether viewed as a form of rebellion or a celebration of individuality, punk continues to inspire and provoke thought, reminding us of the power of creativity and self-expression in the face of adversity.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781947856981