Multiple labels – 19 Jan 2024
The Pist are back from the grave, and it's about damn time.
Who could have seen this one coming? A second proper LP from The PIst has arrived a mere 29 years after their first. The Pist formed in Connecticut way back in 1993. They released a ton of great material before splitting in 1996, including the now classic 1995 full length Ideas Are Bulletproof. The Pist also served as an important counterpoint to the commercial punk bands who were at their apex in the mid ‘90s. “People Instinctively Seek Truth”, and some kids knew the punk on the radio wasn't that.
The fiercely political band's anger hasn't faded over the last three decades. Lyrically, the awkwardly titled Is Risen is similar to The Pist's ‘90s stuff. “Protect, Include, Support and Teach” isn't just a lyric, it's a way of life. “Cross the Line” addresses police brutality. “One Plus One” is about how easy it is to deceive the masses. Ditto “Cognitive Dissonance”. “The Ladder” covers the pointlessness of being a cog in the corporate machine. “Corporate Takeover” has a similar theme. “No Fuckin' Way (For Every Transaction)” speaks to being careful about who gets your money.
Some tracks are more personal. “Perfect” encourages the listener to take it easy on themself. “Pressure” is about the struggles of daily life. “Let It Go” reminds how going to a punk show can be the ultimate stress relief. “Authoritarian” and “Risen” push back against fascism. “Risen” even invokes the name of favorite ‘80s punk target Ronnie Reagan. Animal rights have always been a huge issue for The Pist. “Stop Today” encourages the listener to give up leather and meat. Closer “Best Friend” is all about losing a beloved pet. It might be kind of touching if it wasn't delivered with such vigor.
Musically, there's a bit of a rock and roll influence in addition to the hard edged punk. Singer Al “Pist” Ouimet has a steady bark, but on “Jim Martin” it's on top of a rollicking barroom piano line. Generally, Bill Chamberlain's guitar is nice and loud in the mix. The production is refreshingly raw. It's a welcome relief from so much modern, overly polished punk. There really isn't a bad track among the 19 songs, there's something more important about the return of The Pist. It's a reminder that there are still bands who would rather rage against the machine than suckle at the machine's supple breast. It's really fucking good to have The Pist back.
For vinyl fiends: The first press is 300 copies on green and 700 on black. A nice four page insert has the lyrics and more of the cool black and white artwork.
Part-time punk writer, suburban dad and angry old man. Follow my adventures on the Punk Till I Die podcast!