SS Decontrol: Pioneers of Hardcore Punk
Formation and Early Years
Officially formed in Boston during the summer of 1981, SS Decontrol, short for Society System Decontrol, emerged as a significant force in the hardcore punk scene. The band’s lineup consisted of guitarist Al Barile, vocalist David “Springa” Spring, bassist Jamie Sciarappa, and drummer Chris Foley. Notably, Foley was the only band member with prior musical experience. Undeterred by this, the group pushed forward, even borrowing money from Barile’s parents to record their debut album.
The Kids Will Have Their Say
In 1982, SS Decontrol released their debut album, The Kids Will Have Their Say. Barile established the Xclaim! record label for the release, but the album caught the attention of Ian MacKaye, who offered to co-release it on his acclaimed Dischord label. This partnership marked the first full-length album from a band outside the Washington D.C. area to be released on Dischord.
Impact and Reception
Within just three months, all 1,900 copies of The Kids Will Have Their Say sold out, signaling a strong demand for the band’s music. Rather than basking in their newfound fame, Barile repaid his parents for their loan, and the band welcomed second guitarist Francois Levesque. Focused on their next project, SS Decontrol began recording the Get It Away EP.
Get It Away and Musical Evolution
Released in 1983, Get It Away quickly became a landmark record within the hardcore genre. Barile, who worked as a machinist during the day, wrote lyrics that tackled themes of unity, the dangers of smoking, and the idea of sobriety as a form of liberation. The EP remains a classic, revered by punk enthusiasts to this day.
Shifting Sound and Disbandment
As musical trends began to shift, SS Decontrol evolved as well. They shortened their name to SSD and incorporated a heavier metal influence into their sound, experimenting with intricate guitar solos. After signing with Modern Method, they released the How We Rock EP in 1984, followed by the album Break It Up in 1985. However, by November of that year, the band disbanded.
Post-SSD Career
Following SSD’s breakup, Barile pursued higher education at Northeastern University, earning a degree in mechanical engineering while working at General Electric. Nevertheless, his passion for music remained strong. In 1993, he formed a new alt-rock punk band called Gage, which released three albums: He Will Come (1994), Scissor (1996), and Silent Movie Type (1998).
Legacy and Reflection
Despite the new direction with Gage, Barile experienced the lingering shadow of his past with SSD. A pivotal moment came when Gage opened for the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and the audience’s lukewarm response made Barile acutely aware of SSD’s enduring legacy. He reflected on this realization in an interview, acknowledging the challenges ahead: “That was kind of a rude awakening: that I was in for a lot of work to get probably one-tenth the popularity of SSD.”
Conclusion
SS Decontrol played a vital role in shaping the hardcore punk scene of the early 1980s. Their commitment to authenticity and impactful songwriting set a standard for future generations of musicians. Al Barile’s journey from punk pioneer to mechanical engineer and back to music illustrates the enduring influence of his work and the complexities of living in the shadow of one’s past accomplishments.
FAQs
What year was SS Decontrol formed?
SS Decontrol was formed in the summer of 1981 in Boston.
What was the name of SS Decontrol’s debut album?
Their debut album was titled The Kids Will Have Their Say, released in 1982.
Who was the primary songwriter for SS Decontrol?
Al Barile was the primary songwriter, penning lyrics that often addressed themes such as unity and sobriety.
What band did Al Barile form after SSD disbanded?
After SSD disbanded, Al Barile formed a new band called Gage in 1993.
What legacy did SS Decontrol leave in the punk scene?
SS Decontrol is regarded as a pioneering band in the hardcore punk scene, influencing future generations with their music and ethos.
