What AltPunk Should Look Like

I heard what I've always imagined Alternative Punk should look like last week, and it was completely unexpected. In a world where punk now takes the form of the Offspring, Rise Against, and Green Day, the band Philmont was a refreshing, intelligent change. It was a typical concert at the Channel, featuring (imagine this) the practical house band Days Off Screen. Opening act was Almost An Epic, who will now ask for reprint rights on provided images. Philmont, the middle band, encouraged me that there still are good bands that have yet to be found and break mainstream. I failed to find one thing that I didn't like about them. Their type of music isn't my thing, but their music was well crafted, dynamic, and personal. It wasn't "in your face", but it still had a heart and character to it. Furthermore, I recognized that their sound isn't pre-packaged. It didnt neatly meet the guidelines of "American Idiot" punk. They had elements of electronica (w/ the synth), hardcore, and alternative (some of the licks), yet still presented it without sounding like a clearance bin of multi-colored grandma yarn. Did I mention their energy was honest? Like their music, it was real, and tangible, because if i see one more band go into a hip swinging breakdown, I'm gonna lose my lunch. I would love to see these guys blow up Tremont in Charlotte. That venue is on the verge of collapse. These guys might be the ones to do it too. Bonus points for the drummer's shirt. It was one of those completely random, but originally meant to be serious shirt. Something about an Oscar Meyer shopping experience.

There is only one drawback. Philmont is signed to Forefront (owned by EMI's Christian side). Thats right, my indie purists, they have trafficked with the devil. But lets not have an exorcism over it. We should wish them well, for how else can they expand unless they are signed? I highly doubt they have the funding to support themselves, and lets not forget, even the mecca of "right" labels, Tooth and Nail is owned by EMI (50% stake). The fact that they are signed is a testament to how good they are anyway. I commend whoever signed off on that decision.

To conclude this bit, I believe that Philmont is one of the best more or less undiscovered bands of their type. They are currently touring with Capital Lights and their most recent recorded material can be found on the "Oh Snap EP". A full lenth album is expected early 2009.