Articles

Articles of Faith, originally a Springsteen/Clash cover band called Direct Drive, was transformed following frontman Vic Bondi's visit to a Bad Brains show in Washington, D.C. This experience inspired a shift in their musical style towards hardcore punk. The band adopted the name Articles of Faith and began infusing their music with funk, reggae, and jazz influences alongside politically charged lyrics addressing themes of freedom and consumer society.

Articles of Faith released their first EP, 'What We Want Is Free,' on Version Sound. This debut demonstrated the band's energetic hardcore punk style marked by lyrics reflecting their socio-political views. The EP later was re-issued on their own DIY label, Wasteland Records, solidifying their position in the independent punk scene and allowing them to cultivate a dedicated following despite being based outside the major punk hubs.

Continuing their productive early phase, Articles of Faith released 'Wait,' a three-song EP on Wasteland Records. During this period, the band maintained a strong connection to the Washington D.C. punk scene and Dischord Records musicians, which shaped their sound and message. Their intense and original approach started gaining recognition among punk fans who appreciated their blend of political themes with diverse musical influences.

The band released their landmark debut LP 'Give Thanks' produced by Bob Mould, under Reflex Records. This album showcased matured songwriting and powerful performances that helped define hardcore punk's evolving sound. That same year, drummer Bill Richman, known as Virus X, briefly left the group due to a waning emphasis on political messaging, reflecting the tensions within the band's evolving identity and creative direction.

Articles of Faith disbanded in 1985 after a crucial phase of genre-defining releases and performances. By this time, frontman Vic Bondi had already left Chicago, pursuing other projects, and the band members moved on to various endeavors. Despite their breakup, the band's influence lingered in the hardcore punk community for their innovative fusion of styles and politically resonant lyrics.

Two years after their breakup, Articles of Faith released 'In This Life,' their second full-length LP produced by Bob Mould, through Lone Wolf Records. The album was recorded with drummer Bill Richman returning to the band, partially reviving the group’s intense sound. Though released posthumously, 'In This Life' is viewed as a significant final statement that encapsulated the band's evolving themes and musical complexity.

The original lineup of Articles of Faith reunited for a European tour, reconnecting with their fanbase and reaffirming their impact on punk. The final show of this tour was recorded and issued as part of the 'Your Choice Live' series, preserving the raw energy and significance of the reunion. This period also saw the release of 'Core,' a compilation of early EPs and unreleased tracks dating from 1981 to 1983, maintaining their legacy among new generations.

Articles of Faith contributed to the split EP 'Fortunate Son' released by Alternative Tentacles, featuring two older band tracks alongside solo material from Vic Bondi. This release highlighted the band's ongoing relevance within the punk community and Bondi's continued involvement in politically charged music. Their influence on bands such as NOFX, Heroin, and Disfear was increasingly acknowledged by this time.

In 2010, Articles of Faith reunited once again for an appearance at Riot Fest in Chicago, reconnecting with punk audiences and demonstrating their enduring appeal. Additionally, they released a new EP titled 'New Normal Catastrophe' on Alternative Tentacles, marking their first new material in decades. This comeback reflected both a celebration of their influential legacy and a contemporary reflection on political and social issues through their music.