OBCBYL: Black Flag

So, this year is the 10th anniversary of the amazing, amazing book Our Band Could Be Your Life, and in light of that I've decided to re-read the book, giving each of the 13 bands little highlights on the blog and on my radio show.

First up, Black Flag.

Maybe I'm a little impressionable, but I tend to get really into whatever I'm reading about. I just finished a book about Shakespeare, and I got really into Shakespeare (perhaps you heard me playing the band Titus Andronicus on Thursday night. See?). When I read The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test, I just really wanted to do acid (I still have not, for the record). But, right now, I just kind of think Black Flag totally rules. Early-to-mid-career Black Flag, anyway. Last night, while drinking, I had a burning urge to start a Black Flag cover band with Matt from Dash Jacket, so we'll see if that happens.

It's just something about the total intensity/fury of the thing that gets me. I know a lot of metaldudes will use the word "brutal" to describe music they especially like, but that never really clicked with me. I like some metal, but the punishing aspect of it doesn't really do it for me. However, good punk has a real intensity to it that DOES do it for me, and I truly think there is no better song to illustrate that point than "Rise Above."

Anyway, look for a little salute to Black Flag on the show this Thursday. If you have any songs you'd like me to play in particular, let me know (they just have to be clean).