Depression Never Sounded So Good

Though they're not actually from the city of Defiance, Ohio, this folk-punk band couldn't have picked a better geographic location after which to name themselves.  Staunchly independent, fiercely anti-authority, and musically unpolished, Defiance, Ohio provides a refreshingly raw take on punk rock, and The Great Depression is an excellent starting point for new fans.

The Great Depression is the second of three full-length albums from this six-piece.  Of course, for Defiance, Ohio, "full-length" is a relative term.  This album is only about a half hour long, but good for numerous listens and therefore worth the money.  Although, sticking to their DIY, anti-capitalist attitude, the band makes all their music available for free download on their website http://defianceohio.terrorware.com/.

Commonly described as "folk-punk" or "punkabilly," Defiance adds punk rock grit to simple but lively folk.  The band features a violin, cello, and double bass to keep that down-home Americana feel while grinding out short, fast, and angry blasts of mostly acoustic punk.  "Enough Is Enough" is speedy and vicious while "Trip and Stumble" features growls of frustration that adequately match the lyrics: "What the f_ck? Is this what passes for life?"  They pack a lot of grit and energy into their music, making it unmistakably punk, but it's the folk and country element that make this band really stand out.   

That folksy sound is felt more strongly on The Great Depression than on their other albums, especially on "The New World Order," a fun track on which Sherri Miller delivers a heavy country vibe as she mocks George W. Bush for believing he was sent from God to wage war in Iraq.  The songs don't, however, just take on the government.  Their criticism also aims at American life on a personal level.  First track "Petty Problems" attacks our self-absorption, illustrating the point with a powerful opening analogy: "In Columbus they were shopping on the first day / The first official day of war."  Even when they're just trying to have fun, like on the short skateboarding tribute "This Feels Better," there's still an air of frustration with modern life and a desire to break free from its confines.

If you're looking for rock music that purposefully goes against the mainstream, Defiance, Ohio is what you're looking for.  Their lyrics are intelligent (they reference Emily Dickinson and Beowulf), bold, and provocative.  Their music is creative and enjoyable for many people who don't need huge hooks or slick production.  And their attitude is pure punk.  If you're looking for something real and raw, take a trip to Defiance, Ohio for The Great Depression.


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