MP3: Barra Head - Common ground
"Common ground" is the lead single from Barra Head's new album "Go get beat up" and while it's not the best song on the album, it's important because it concerns the recent events at Ungdomshuset in Copenhagen. Venues like Ungdomshuset are crucial, not just because they provide a DIY showspace, but also because they act as center for action and the exchange of ideas. I didn't learn about strong values from reading lyric sheets, I saw it in action growing up in the 924 Gilman St. scene (first show: Green Day, The Creamers, Winona Ryders and Jüke circa 1990-91 or thereabouts). Punk and hardcore has always been about more than music - it's about integrity and community. Doing what's right for the common good, not just for yourself. Not to mention, having the gumption to make things happen through the force of your own hard work. Unfortunately, it's all too easy to become complacent which is why Ungdomshuset should serve as a wake-up call. 25 years of history can be erased if you let it. The folks from Barra Head might not be angry young punks (and neither am I), but they know what's at stake.
Barra Head - Common ground