behind the lies
by Jason Kolins
Vancouver's Dissent are known for their
fast, aggressive and intense live shows and after seven years, they
are back with a vengeance. Armed with thought provoking
anti-establishment and self empowering lyrics they gained notoriety
amongst the all-ages hardcore scene. Same holds true with an older
seasoned crowd from the legendary Cobalt. After a decade long track
record the group played their last show in Victoria in 2004. A talk
with heavily tattooed vocalist Sean and founding member Mark-Gone-Mad
they address the “why now” question of the upcoming reunion show.
“A couple reasons actually” says Mark. “thanks to the magic of
the internet” there was some renewed interest after a posting of
their seven inch recording. Sean responded “but a big reason as
well is that the social injustices in society that we have always
written about and spoken out against are still here and in most cases
worse than ever.” Mark backed it with “and the time just felt
right for us to come back.” A 1994 start with a slew of demos, self
releases and two seven inch recordings on Europe’s Bad Man Records
got the bands music and message into the kids' hands worldwide.
Dissent were a Cobalt staple and favourite of booker-operator
Wendy13. Mark explains they really liked playing there because “at
the Cobalt you’d get on a good bill with a mix of punk/metal bands
with a rowdy crowd and it'd be a good time.” The guitarist adds “we
played some really wild, packed shows there. One of the favourites
was “the Cobalt anniversary show and a new years gig with the
Dayglo Abortions.” Fitting and it only makes sense that the July reunion show will be presented by Wendy13 of NO
BOLLOCKS. The band is excited to share the stage with Vancouver
heavyweights: The Golers, Car 87 and Seconds Flat. By the way bass
player Jeff 's new project is Seconds Flat. Sean adds “Bryce from
Car 87 is an old friend and we really wanted to play with his band”
Dissent has put to rest the rumours that they are back as a full time
band, with only a few shows coming up get your moshing shoes on and
get it while you can!
