Many fingers point to Minor Threat and their influence on the scene when it comes to the connection between straight-edge and hardcore music. While Ian Mackaye had an undeniable role, the story does not end there. In 1985, a new band of drug and alcohol free kids emerged playing faster and harder than ever before while preaching a clean lifestyle. This band forced itself to be an undeniable presence, taking from the established bands and pushing the sonic boundaries of hardcore while breathing new life into the New York Scene. That band is Youth of Today, and their stamp on the hardcore legacy is one marked by raw artistry and consistency.
Initially formed in Connecticut around vocalist Ray Cappo and guitarist John Porcelly, the band was rounded out by Graham Philips on bass and Darren Pesce on drums. They exploded onto the New York scene in 1985 with the release of their iconic Can’t Close My Eyes project, and once they got hold of the hardcore world’s attention, they never wanted to let it go. For this Golden Age Thursday, we have a pure example of the band’s dominance in their prime. The year was 1986, and Youth of Today had just released their Break Down the Walls LP. The band celebrated with a historic performance at the legendary CBGB club in New York City. The footage captures Youth of Today’s blunt and palpable energy as they tear apart their home club in a firework display of hardcore prowess and thought-provoking speeches. You can watch the whole show below.
