There probably are not a lot of punk rock fans out there who have not heard of Anti-Flag. They are a political punk rock band that throughout the years have risen to the top. Their music is catchy with powerful lyrics expressing the way they feel.
Recently Anti-Flag released A Benefit For Victims of Violent Crime, an EP created after one of the band member's sister was murdered. The EP was released to raise awareness in violent crimes.
I was given the opportunity to exchange emails with Pat Thetic, the drummer of Anti-Flag. In this e-interview he speaks about the EP the band just released, how it came along, and the release of a full length album in 2008.
This is without a doubt a horrible reason to release a benefit CD, yet a great idea. Who initially decided to create the CD?
The idea to create this benefit CD was #2’s. He had just been to the funeral and he was feeling really helpless. When he got home he called me and we talked, and he said he would like to try to find something positive in this tragedy. We started talking about things and came up with the idea of releasing these songs and a couple live songs and making it a benefit EP. In the end, I think it was a good idea. Working on creating this EP, and making it about something bigger than ourselves, has helped us all deal with #2’s loss. This kind of loss is really fucked up and paralyzes you; this gave us something to do.
We are splitting the proceeds between the Center for Victims of Violent Crime and education bonds. We decided on that organization because they really helped out #2’s Mom in navigating the legal system in a very difficult time, and the education bonds will be for #2’s sister’s children. The two children are going to need a lot of things in the future and this will hopefully help them out when they get older.
Article comments
1 - Marr in LA
Right on re KUCINICH! Dennis also is the one candidate who didnt vote for the Patriot Act, and
who knows we need to nix NAFTA & will immediately do that, so we can bring jobs back to America & move on to FAIR trade not free trade run amuck. Kucinich is a man of integrity, courage & compassion. He takes no special interest money. He is a candidate for the people, supported by the people. Please go to his site & watch some interviews/speechs & you'll see how clearcut Dennis is. The make a donation & help
push the true peace candidate forward.
2 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
Great Interview
"What do you say to a fan who accuses you of selling out?"
I think people feel that it's not the message that was sold but the style of music. It is great that they have progressed & even scored a deal w/RCA but I do miss their old crusty punk(I met Justin back in the day).I also miss the '95 punk scene here in Boston...But, that's me.
Most importantly,My heart goes out to #2's family and the band. Whatever the case may be, I hope the guilty party gets the maximum punishment(though I know that can't bring people back)!! I wish you guys the best,Pat& keep making the music you love!!