June 21–28, 2001

music|rock/pop

Anti-Flag

Pittsburgh’s progressive punk rock outfit Anti-Flag has matured quite a bit since playing their first show in 1994. They’ve released four albums, put out assorted 7-inches and EPs and toured the U.S. 13 times. Their just-released fourth LP Underground Network is not so much a departure in scope and in theme, but they are more focused and still full of intent. Tight and precise in their execution, their music is fast and steady, their sound furious and penetrating. Like any political art, the meat of their work is the politic, and their music fits their message perfectly. Just as Americans need to take back the nation, punks need to take back punk rock. The first step is to examine our society and political climate under the harshest scrutiny, and Anti-Flag does just that, using punk rock as a vehicle to protest and address social inequality. Our ship is sinking; it is time to take a stand.

—Siemond Chan

Sat., June 23, 7 p.m., $10, with The Unseen, Ensign, Jersey and The Methodones, The Trocadero, 1003 Arch St., 215-922-LIVE, www.thetroc.com.