After placing an order on 26 June, my package finally turned up today. That's 4 months of waiting. When I checked my paypal receipt, I was actually surprised that it was only 4 months. It feels like longer. I guess 4 months is quite a long time, but I have waited far longer in the past, so it's no big deal. But yeah, after seeing everyone else in internetland get theirs last week, I am stoked that mine finally turned up. Pretty much from the moment I opened the package I was glad I placed an order for this.
The first thing I saw when I opened the box was a card stiffener with the React! logo screened on top, which is a really cool idea and looks nice. I'll definitely be keeping this:
Next, a printed story / apology about the delays in getting these orders sent out. It's nice that these guys actually feel the need to apologise for holding onto people's money for months. It reads like they didn't intend for this to happen and are genuinely sorry. I generally hate the concept of pre-orders because I am convinced that some labels have in the past used pre-order money to finance records, taking cash six to nine months before the records were done, and not apologising to the people they suckered. So this sentiment is appreciated.
The cover of the record itself rules. I like what React! Records are about. It's about no-nonsense straight edge hardcore, using typical sxe style aesthetics and designs, so that you can look at the records and pretty much know what you're going to get before you drop the needle. This 12" reminds me of something that would have come out on Wishingwell in 1988:
The record also has a big Wishingwell / Revelation style fold out lyric sheet, as well as a couple of stickers, and a sheet from React! records on the merits of praising and being nice to people.
As for the vinyl... well, there are three colours made, and (like any self-respecting idiot with more money than sense) I bought all of them:
There were 200 on blue, 300 on white, & 500 on black. All with labels that look exactly like the first Ressurection 7"... haha!
So what does it sound like? Well, firstly... as if that fucking matters! This record looks so good that what it sounds like is irrelevant. Except for the fact that it sounds pretty much as you would expect it to... which is a fucking good straight edge hardcore record! The cool thing about this band is the overwhelming positivity they seem to have. This harks back to a time when straight edge was all about being positive and trying to change things for the better. The lyrics have that theme running throughout, and it's nice to see this kind of attitude being pushed rather than the negativity that a lot of bands seem to advertise these days with their "life is shit" approach.
Overall, Right Idea and React! Records are trying to make straight edge something to be proud of again, and I can get behind that 100%.
To order this, go here (and hurry up because it's on the verge of selling out... like you probably did about 4 years ago, haha!):
8 comments:
I got my package a week or so ago...I still need to write it up for the blog.
"it's on the verge of selling out... like you probably did about 4 years ago"
That was funny!
Dude, I must stick up for Aram on this one. He was basically sick with worry about all the issues this record had and how long it took to ship. They went through THREE test presses before the pressing plant got it right. You can see how that would slow everything down.
The other cool thing about Aram (besides being one of the most crucial dudes on the planet, honestly) is that he TOO is a record collector. So he went way the fuck out of his way to track and document every record. Check the full pressing and you'll see rejected test presses and weird variation/changeover vinyls with stamped dust sleeves.
Best dude, best label.
You're preaching to the converted, my friend. I am Aram's oldest friend in the UK (in both senses of the word!). We did a trade in 2000 and stayed in touch ever since. He stayed at my house a couple of years back & I had to leave early in the morning to go to work. The fact that I left him alone in my house and he didn't steal my Chung King or Chain 7"s is testament to what a nice guy he is. Or rather, what a fool... he missed his chance... haha!
Agreed.
Aram = quality edge dude.
Easily one of the best records of the year. Musically and the record has by far one of the most simple yet aesthetically pleasing layouts I have seen in a while. I was so impatient on this record coming that I bought one at the record release (No limited cover just blue vinyl). And then about a week later mine came in the mail and what do you know Blue vinyl. I'm sure it will be great for trades one day.
Thanks for the props, and thanks to Aram for doing the record for us! More shows in the New Year, we promise...
Ordered my copies on all 3 colors only to receive 1 black and 2 white copies months later. sucks
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