In today's music climate, style has seemingly taken the upperhand over substance. More and more bands pantomine and play to backing tracks that make their live shows sound as "full" as their over-produced studio endeavors. To the unassuming listener, everything is fine. They don't notice it, and leave the concert thinking that the band they came to saw played amazing. There was a group in the 80's that did this. What was their name? Milli Vanilli. People didn't accept it then, so why is it ok now? Thankfully, there are a group of bands thumbing their noses at that mentality. Learning how to play thier instruments AND putting on a good show. Sticking to being true to themselves, thier fans, and the music scene at large. They represent a beacon of hope in the distance that everything good about music is still relevant. Not just writing bubble gum pop songs about a girl, or a killer new diamond encrusted grill. Songs that question authority, and bring forth the appropriate scrutiny we have as our democratic right. Knowing when to preach, when to incite, when to listen, and when to have fun and sing a song about menopause for instance. Counterpunch does just that. Tight, melodic, and catchy, this four piece punk rock powerhouse from Chicago brings it, and brings it in a big way. With a 'go big or go home' mentality, Eric, Andy, and Jared belt out a three pronged vocal assault while Mickey (Showoff, August Premier) holds the rhythm section well in check. With songs that run the gamut from political rants to relationship quarrels, every listener has something they can sink their teeth into. Whether you prefer the fast melodic styles of songs like Seventeen, the mid tempo hooks of Your Leap Year, or the in your face punk rock styles of songs like Blue State Blues and Tear It Down, there is a little bit of love for every music lover. With a Japanese release on RadTone Records already in place, Counterpunch is poised and ready to independantly release their self titled debut stateside Spring 2007. Packed with eleven tracks of face rocking punk, this CD grips you from start to finish and everywhere in between. It's a relevant and challenging commentary on our current social climate, accompanied with songs that offer insight into personal issues that affect us all. Add to that some fun, lighter songs about relationship quarrels or Jared's take on menopause, and you have an idea of what this album has to offer; everything. They have shared the stage with the likes of Rise Against, A Wilhelm Scream, Local H, and Flogging Molly among others. Along with scenemates Much The Same and Ryan's Hope, every day brings a new reason to tear down the established norms that are spreading like a cancer through the industry. Every show lends an opportunity to raise your voice, entertain, and inspire. Look for Counterpunch invading a town near you very soon.