"Sellout" is one of the nastiest labels thrown at punk bands. Sometimes it comes from jealous rivals, other times from fans who don't like to see their favorite, underground musicians pander to an audience of millions. But wait; is that Alkaline Trio with Audrina on an episode of The Hills? Is Nike really releasing a limited edition sneaker designed by the band? Has Alkaline Trio forsaken their independent label roots? With the release Agony & Irony [read review], the band's major label debut, the band may have a lot to prove - or disprove - but according to the band, the music is still that of the same Alkaline Trio we all know and love. Revolt talked to Matt Skiba (vocals, guitar) and Derek Grant (drums, percussion) shortly after the release of Agony & Irony.

Alkaline Trio formed in the suburbs of Chicago in 1996, originally comprised of Matt Skiba, Rob Doran and Glenn Porter. Of these humble beginnings, says Skiba, "We all met playing in various bands in our high school years. We were all friends and fans of each others before we played together."

A group of friends playing together steadily grew into something bigger. They signed with Vagrant Records, released five studio albums, two collections of B-sides and rarities, and eventually cut a deal with major label Epic. Along the way Alkaline Trio lost a few band members and gained others, with the current line-up being Matt Skiba, Derek Grant, and Dan Andriano. Twelve years after Alkaline Trio's forming, Epic Records released Agony & Irony, their sixth studio record and highest-charting album to date. [Read more]

The Virgins
The Virgins
Atlantic Records


Generally speaking, it's easy to predict which two or three songs will be released as singles on any given album. But contrary to the trend of providing only a couple of these radio-friendly tracks, The Virgins have compiled ten whole songs worthy of airtime. Though a name like The Virgins may lead you to believe otherwise, this band isn't at all novice to the components of solid music-making. Every single song is unique and demands the attention of the listener, making this album almost impossible to ignore. Their first full-length release is an album with a personality, and it will have you on the hook for weeks. [Read more]

The Gallery
If You Know What I Mean
Blue Duck Records


For their first full-length album, The Gallery has done a lot of things right. The collection of songs displays the band at their best. If You Know What I Mean is infused with fun beats, a sound that sets The Gallery apart and a healthy dose of humor. The Gallery may not be completely comfortable branching off into uncharted territory, but that is not a fault since what songs appear on If You Know What I Mean are solid, well-produced, memorable and catchy. If this album is anything to go by, listeners can expect good things from The Gallery. [Read more]

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