If you're craving a nostalgic kick back to the heyday of New York Style Hardcore, DCxPC's latest offering, 'DCxPC Live Vol. 12: Fortitude Live at Lou's,' is a sonic time capsule worth exploring. This live album, released on December 22, 2023, by the Daytona Beach-formed band, encapsulates the raw essence of hardcore, serving as a testament to Fortitude’s longevity and undying energy.
Led by Pat Edge's commanding vocals, Fortitude delivers a relentless barrage of tracks that harken back to the glory days of old-school hardcore, reminiscent of bands like Gorilla Biscuits and Agnostic Front. The album echoes a deep Judge vibe, laying down tracks like "Red Ant Riot," a powerful anti-racism anthem, and "Old Ethics," a fervent call for an end to violence and a return to core values. I’d like to make it clear, however, that this isn’t strictly a nostalgia set. What I’m saying is, they’ve aged very well, maintain youthful energy. Their sound, despite being seasoned in the hardcore realm, remains current, relevant, and would be right at home with the current wave of hardcore bands, especially those coming out of the Pacific Northwest, like Dry Socket, Dead Streets, and pretty much everything on Iron Lung.
Behind the scenes, drummer Dave Kiel emerges as the unsung hero, a powerhouse of consistency propelling Fortitude's pulsating beats. He is a diesel-powered metronome and the poster boy of consistency driving an album that’s not just about music; it's an invitation to the dance floor, guiding you through the pit while keeping you standing tall. His drums, and Fortitude as a whole, aren’t just the inspiration behind the “Wall of Death” they are the
stairway to the top.
Songs like "Return of the Real" bring to mind the camaraderie and passion of live shows, painting vivid images of fans jostling for the mic and reveling in the shared experience. The album's "Secret track" is a delightful surprise, a gem nestled at the end, waiting with high hopes to be discovered.
As much as Fortitude thrives on this live recording, future releases could benefit from a deeper bass mix and more room mics to capture the electrifying energy of the crowd. Despite this, the limited 200 silver vinyl copies are a coveted treasure for hardcore aficionados.
In conclusion, 'DCxPC Live Vol. 12: Fortitude Live at Lou's' is a raucous celebration of hardcore's unyielding spirit. Fortitude proves that after 26 years, they're still at the top of their game, delivering a relentless, unapologetic dose of classic hardcore that's both timeless and invigorating.
Listen and grab your limited edition silver vinyl copy at Fortitude's Bandcamp