CD: To Live In Discontent Artist: Strike Anywhere Label: Jade Tree Rating: 3.5/5 Best Song: Chorus Of One Reviewer: Bobby Gorman

Everyone knows of that one band that everyone talks about - but you have no idea who they are. So when they come up in conversation you just nod and smile, pretending you know what's going on until you slowly fade yourself out of the conversation or change the topic before they find out you have no idea who they are. For me, Strike Anywhere were one of those bands. Whenever anyone talked about them I just nodded and smiled and pretended to know what I'm talking about when in fact I had only really heard one song from them (which was the music video on a compilation). So when it was revealed that Strike Anywhere were set to release a new CD, I figured it's about time I got to actually know the band.

Before I mislead you anymore, let me tell you that To Live In Discontent is NOT a new album by Strike Anywhere. It is a B-side collection. The first two tracks were previously released as the “Bread or Revolution” seven inch on Fat Wreck Chords. Tracks 3 through 8 were previously released as “Chorus of One” CD EP on Red Leader Records, and vinyl on No Idea. Track 9 was from Exit English while track 10 was from their demo. The last three songs are cover songs: Two Sides by Gorilla Biscuits, Values Here by Dag Nasty and Where Are They Now? by Cock Sparrer.

So really, this "new" CD gives you a great feel off the band throughout their entire career; and it is safe to say that they have stayed incredibly consistent. Fast paced hardcore punk rock anthems laced with sociopolitical lyrics all across this release, making it fun and energizing. The lyrics come flying at you somewhat reminiscent of Kevin Seconds and you soon find yourself shouting along with the infectious and furious choruses. They are highly political, without coming off trite and forced. It is an album full of fist pumping anthems with a select few that are able to really blow you away. All in all, it adds up for one solid release of B-sides.

So now when people start talking about Strike Anywhere I'll finally be able to pitch in a few opinions here and there rather then just nod and smile like the ignorant fool I was. But I should probably look into getting a copy of Exit English if I really want to join the conversation because although To Live In Discontent gives you a good background of the band, there's still more to hear from them, and Exit English was their break through release. It is a great release for any fan or person wanting to hear more from these Richmond, Virginia boys nonetheless.