Agnostic Front
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Band Timeline
1980
Formation of Agnostic Front in New York City
Agnostic Front was formed in 1980 in New York City by Vincent "Vinnie Stigma" Capuccio on lead guitar, with Diego on bass, Rob Krekus on drums, and John Watson on vocals. Despite being billed under a different name initially, they adopted the name Agnostic Front early on, establishing themselves as part of the burgeoning hardcore punk scene. The band initially consisted entirely of skinheads, a fact that shaped their identity and led to some misconceptions about their political stance, which lead vocalist Roger Miret later clarified as not aligned with fascism or ultra-nationalism.
1983
Release of debut EP 'United Blood'
In 1983, Agnostic Front recorded and officially released their debut EP titled 'United Blood.' By this time, the lineup had shifted slightly with Ray Barbieri (Raybeez) on drums and Todd Youth replacing the original bassist Adam Mucci. 'United Blood' captured the raw energy and gritty reality of New York's hardcore scene, quickly establishing the band as key players within the genre. This release laid the groundwork for their influence on New York hardcore and marked a significant milestone in their early career.
1984
Release of seminal album 'Victim in Pain'
Agnostic Front released 'Victim in Pain' in 1984, which became a seminal album in the New York hardcore scene. The album reflected the band's life experiences and the harsh realities of New York streets, marked by aggressive and fast-paced music. Drummer Raybeez was replaced by Dave Jones, and bass duties were taken over by Rob Kabula. The album positioned Agnostic Front at the forefront of hardcore punk in New York City, with performances at iconic venues like CBGB alongside other influential bands such as Cro-Mags and Murphy's Law.
1986
Release of 'Cause for Alarm' and shift to crossover thrash
In 1986, Agnostic Front released the album 'Cause for Alarm,' which marked their exploration into the crossover thrash genre, blending hardcore punk with thrash metal elements. The recording process was challenging due to lineup instability and personal issues within the band. This album featured contributions from members of fellow band Carnivore and showcased a heavier, more metallic sound. It signaled a significant stylistic evolution that broadened their musical influence and brought them into contact with a wider audience, including thrash metal fans.
1987
Release of 'Liberty and Justice For...' and continued changes
The band released 'Liberty and Justice For...' in 1987, returning somewhat to a more stripped-down punk sound but retaining some metal guitar solos. Despite a lack of commercial success compared to earlier releases, the album reinforced Agnostic Front’s commitment to authentic hardcore punk. Around this period, the band faced continued lineup changes, challenges including Roger Miret's legal troubles, and fluctuations in their sound and audience. These years were formative but tumultuous, as they navigated both musical direction and personal issues.
Late 1980s to Early 1990s
Challenges and lineup instability
During the late 1980s into the early 1990s, Agnostic Front experienced multiple lineup changes and personal difficulties, including vocalist Roger Miret's incarceration. These challenges affected the band's continuity and output. Despite setbacks, the band maintained a loyal fan base and continued to be influential within the hardcore scene. Their resilience during this period helped ensure their lasting legacy in punk music, setting the stage for future comebacks and reunifications.
Albums
Victim in Pain
11 tracks
1984
Cause for Alarm
10 tracks
1986
Liberty and Justice for...
11 tracks
1987
One Voice
12 tracks
1992
Something’s Gotta Give
18 tracks
1998
Riot, Riot, Upstart
17 tracks
1999
Dead Yuppies
14 tracks
2001
Another Voice
14 tracks
2004
Warriors
14 tracks
2007
My Life My Way
13 tracks
2011
The American Dream Died
16 tracks
2015
Get Loud!
14 tracks
2019
United Blood l.p.
19 tracks
2023
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
Craig Silverman
2014
Guitar
Mike Gallo
2000
Background vocals
Mike Gallo
2000
Bass guitar
Craig Silverman
2014
Background vocals
Vinnie Stigma
1980
Guitar
Pokey Mo
2009
Drums (drum set)
Roger Miret
1982
Lead vocals
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
John Watson
1980
1982
Lead vocals
Adam Mucci
1981
1983
Bass guitar
Rob Kabula
1997
2000
Bass guitar
Rob Krekus
1980
1981
Drums (drum set)
Dave Jones
1983
1985
Drums (drum set)
Diego
1980
1982
Bass guitar
Ray Barbieri
1981
1983
Drums (drum set)
Joseph James
2007
2014
Background vocals
Todd Youth
1983
1983
Guitar
Joseph James
2007
2014
Guitar
Alan Peters
1987
1990
Bass guitar
Louie Beato
1986
1986
Drums (drum set)
Craig Setari
1990
1993
Bass guitar
Matt Henderson
1990
1993
Background vocals
Jimmy Colletti
1997
2004
Drums (drum set)
Steve Martin
1987
1990
Guitar
Rob Kabula
1983
1987
Bass guitar
Steve Gallo
2004
2009
Drums (drum set)
Matt Henderson
1990
1993
Guitar
Gordon Ancis
1986
1987
Guitar
Joe “Fish” Montanaro
1986
1987
Drums (drum set)
Will Shepler
1987
1993
Drums (drum set)
Story of Agnostic Front
Agnostic Front, a seminal New York City hardcore punk band, exploded onto the scene in 1980. Their influence on the NYC hardcore scene and pioneering role in crossover thrash is undeniable.
Early Years (1980-1992): A Story of Line-Up Shifts and Hardcore Fury
The original lineup, formed in 1980, featured Vinnie Stigma (lead guitar, formerly of the Eliminators), Diego (bass), Rob Krekus (drums, aka Robby Crypt Crash), and John Watson (vocals). Initially billed as Zoo Crew at their first show, a last-minute name change, courtesy of Stigma, solidified them as Agnostic Front. Early instability saw Raybeez (Ray Barbieri) taking over on drums and Adam Mucci joining on bass. Following Watsons arrest and the departure of James Kontra (who clashed with Capuccio over sticker distribution), a pivotal moment arrived. Stigma, impressed by Roger Mirets (ex-Psychos) slam dancing style, recruited him as vocalist without prior contact.
This lineup, solidified in 1983, unleashed their debut EP, United Blood. However, even before the official release, bassist Mucci exited, replaced by Todd Youth. Crucially, this early Agnostic Front was entirely composed of skinheads, a significant aspect of their identity and the burgeoning hardcore scene.
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