"....so I dismissed this and overlooked it. Like many punk fans, I turned my back to any band that signed with a major label. Sure, our favorite bands, The Ramones, The Clash, etc were on major labels. But ee justified it by saying independent labels weren't as viable of an option back then, and some of the "major labels" started as indies themselves. We kinda knew we were full of crap, but we pressed on. And we should have. The punk scene needs that a-hole element. It just does. But the consequences are missing some great music.
Ever since the whole Dr. Strange/Fat Wreck Chords drama of the early 90's, I never trusted Face To Face. Hearing the Victoria Manor tape (the pre-Face to Face metal band that was, well, awful and funny at the same time) made me think they were simply cashing in on this whole punk thing. Signing to a major confirmed that for me. Maybe they did, but judging the music on it's own merits, it doesn't matter. This is high quality stuff. I always liked Don't Turn Away and secretely loved Big Choice, but I was just too punk rock to get this. Well I should have. The songs on here have a sort of timeless feel to them. They sound like fully realized songs instead of 3 chord punk rock, and that's fine. "Walk the Walk" and "Blind" alone are reasons for buying this.
I guess this review is more about the band than this particular record, but hearing it made me regret not getting in in 1996. It took me almost ten years, it should take you about 30 more seconds. The "add to your cart" button is right there.
"
Words don't say enough...
Josh Henderson | USA | 07/09/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Words can't say enough about how truely great Face to Face is. A remarkable band that has sincere creativity and thoughful lyrics that don't patronize. Lead singer and guitarist Trever Keith has an amazing style to his music, his lyrics are powerful, yet simple. They put the listener into everyday life situations that anyone can relate to and hopefully gives them a powerful sense of hope and direction. Extremely catchy guitar riffs and a powerful bass guitar sound, finished off with Keith's uplifting lyrics- this album is one of a kind. I highly recommend it! I had the priviledge to see Face to Face twice, and they are truly a class act and have a damn great live show! Buy this album!!"
Great driving Punk Rock.
howitzer | Vancouver, WA United States | 02/21/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"All I can really say about Face To Face's self titled release is...it puts the ROCK back in the term Punk Rock. Face To Face explodes on all 12 tracks of pure Punk fury. They have a very unique sound,that to say the least is a breath of fresh air. It sounds like the very punky instrument playing of bands like "MxPx" and "Strung Out." Along with the vocal abilities that could be described as a mix of A.J. Popoff of "Lit" and Ted Bond of "Craig's Brother." If you are a real fan of Punk Rock you should definately buy this album."
BEST FACE TO FACE ALBUM...
howitzer | 11/20/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the best of all their albums. I've never heard punk rock at this level. It is totally different from the NOFX style. Face to Face has harmony within."