Bridge Nine Records, Boston’s acclaimed label known for churning out iconic tracks since 1995, proudly adds New York hardcore band Incendiary Device to their ever-expanding catalog. The brainchild of NYHC stalwart, filmmaker, and documentary maker, Drew Stone, together with Tristan D’Graves, Incendiary Device is a melodic tribute to traditional hardcore and punk, while echoing the raw energy of New York. Their sound, drawing inspiration from legendary bands like Minor Threat and Black Flag, is a testament to Stone’s and D’Graves’ musical camaraderie spanning a decade, with their roots in famed bands such as Antidote and The High & The Mighty.
The lineup is completed by Shaun Brennan, the D.C. music scene maestro, and drummer Mike Flaherty, seasoned with the hardcore punk vibe. Despite being a 2022 formation, the band is all set to launch their inaugural album via Bridge Nine this coming fall.
D’Graves, expressing the band’s elation, shared: “It’s a true privilege aligning with Bridge Nine for our album debut. The label’s unparalleled commitment to the hardcore genre is awe-inspiring, and we’re ecstatic to join the family.”
Echoing the sentiment, Stone reveals: “Our upcoming album is a beautiful blend of our aspirations and past influences— a homage to quintessential American hardcore. We can’t wait to take this musical journey worldwide and share it with our fans. Immense gratitude for the constant support.”
Chris Wrenn, the visionary behind Bridge Nine Records, elucidates: “Partnering with Drew Stone and his dynamic ensemble, Incendiary Device, was a no-brainer. Drew’s enduring legacy across New York and Boston hardcore domains, coupled with his zeal for elevating emerging talents, resonates with the essence Bridge Nine stands for. Eagerly awaiting the storm that Incendiary Device’s new album is set to bring.”
Promising a riveting twelve-track album crafted by the trio of D’Graves, Stone, and Brennan, Incendiary Device encapsulates the electric spirit of NYHC, setting them apart. Having already graced stages alongside powerhouse bands such as Biohazard and Madball, the band’s tour agenda is ramping up.
Watch Out for their next gig on September 30th at Spoiler NYC in Dingbatz, Clifton, NJ.
The comments in social media and below the news on Lambgoat magazine (of course!) presented a blend of sarcasm, criticism, and debate on the nature and evolution of hardcore music. The band’s naming controversies and association with Bridge Nine Records are primary triggers for the discussion.
Many commenters have been critical, noting the band’s name conflicts with another band ‘Incendiary‘ from Long Island that has been active since late 2000’s. This isn’t the first time the band has faced such criticism. It was pointed out that one of the band’s members was previously involved with Car Bomb Parade, despite there being another band named ‘Car Bomb’ that’s been around since the early 2000s. Notably, another grievance emerged surrounding a previous band name, ‘Antidote NYHC’. It appears this was an iteration of the band from the ’80s named ‘Antidote’, and the ‘NYHC’ suffix was added due to naming issues with a UK band. This continuous name-swapping has clearly hit a nerve with the hardcore community.
Beyond the name controversy, critics have questioned the band’s relevance, citing their aging members and suggesting that their primary audience is well above the usual demographic for hardcore music. One comment humorously referred to them as suitable for an “adult daycare for the HC elderly.” The band’s association with Chris Wrenn and Bridge Nine Records has also come under scrutiny, with some suggesting desperation on the label’s part. Others defended the choices, hinting that while the band might not achieve massive success in the U.S., there’s potential for profitability in Europe. Still, this optimism was countered with skepticism by some, predicting that the band might only sell a few hundred copies of an EP.
Another point of contention arose around Chris Wrenn’s personal history and his association with hardcore. Commenters debated his role and contributions to the genre, with some criticizing him as a “trust-fund kid” who lucked into the hardcore scene. Others countered, saying he’s done a lot for the community. The debate spun into a broader discussion about the nature and history of hardcore itself. While some expressed nostalgia for the authentic roots of hardcore and criticized its suburbanization and alleged dilution in recent decades, others pushed back, defending the genre’s evolution and diverse influences.
Overall, the comments online seemed to reflect a community deeply divided over issues of authenticity, representation, and the future direction of hardcore. It remains to be seen how these debates will shape the scene going forward, but it’s clear that many, including both the band and the label, are passionate about preserving what they see as the true spirit of hardcore.
