Mark Telfian (Under Attack)
photo by Michael Thorn (Razorblades and Aspirin)
What are your top five albums that were released in 2021? (In order 1-5)
- Unsane - Improvised Munitions & Demo 12”
- Public Acid - Condemnation 7"
- Stingray - Feeding Time 7"
- The Chisel - Come See Me / Not the Only One 7”
- Zealot R.I.P. - The Extinction of You 12”
What band did you discover in 2021 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? What made them significant?
Terminal Bliss is a band made up of members that all have very deep roots in punk hardcore/metal music. Their sound is uncompromisingly brutal with relevant socio-political lyrics that, musically and politically, I find to be very reminiscent of bands that I remember growing up with like Born Against and Rorschach. I think it’s great that veteran musicians can start a new band and make it relevant to today’s problems.
How will you remember 2021? (In terms of music)
With a flood of new releases and shows starting to happen again, 2021 felt like reaching an oasis in a musical desert. The punk hardcore/metal community has always been a hub of socio-political activity. With COVID lockdowns and quarantines, people felt isolated and alienated for a long time, and it was great to be back out and see familiar faces and people again. A lot of new bands and project bands were created during this time, not to mention a lot of older bands wrote and worked on new material. It’s been a great year to discover and rediscover live music and new vinyl.
What can we look forward to from you in 2022?
Under Attack has done three 7”s and five split 7”s, but we’re looking forward to doing our first 12” next year. So far, Under Attack has played one show in DC, and seven shows have been in Richmond. In 2022, we hope to make it across the country and overseas as well.
What records are you looking forward to most in 2022?
I’m looking forward to the Seein Red 12” coming out on Armageddon. The boys have been posting practice videos of their new songs, and it blows me away to think that, after all these years, they still play such brutal hardcore and they’ve never forgotten their roots.
What went through your head the first time you played live in 2021 after the delay? (If you haven’t -- what do you anticipate when you hit that point?)
The shows Under Attack had booked for 2021 ended up being cancelled, and it’s been quite some time since we’ve played shows. Our focus has been on writing and recording new material (with five new releases currently in the works). We’re hoping in 2022, if everyone’s schedules line up, to be able to play a handful of shows and do a couple of tours.
Mark Telfian – social media links
- Instagram: @underattackva
