Artist: The First Step
Album: What We Know
Label: Rivalry
Tracks: 12
Reviewed By: Chaz

In 2001, a small hardcore outfit was formed in the south eastern state of North Carolina. I don't mean to knock the south but they aren't really known for their hardcore acts. Don't get me wrong, I know there are tons of great hardcore bands that come from down south but let's face it, it ain't so.cal., NYC, Boston or the Pacific Northwest.

In no time, this small hardcore outfit called The First Step became one of the most popular hardcore bands that you never heard of. They took hardcore back to the old school. They took influences from all of the old school bands they grew up on, Insted, Youth Of Today, Turning Point, Uniform Choice, Judge and Chain Of Strength. They didn't have the hype of x-members or legendary record label backing. They were grassroots hardcore and they did it with all their hearts. Over the past five years, they toured North America and Europe and made a name for themselves. They also released two 7" EP's (now put together on one album called Open Hearts and Clear Minds).

Now TFS is back with a new album. They have an obsessive fan base, a solid record label and also an historic producer. They went into the studio with Walter Schreifels (Gorilla Biscuits, Quicksand, Rival Schools, Youth Of Today, Warzone, Project X...and the list goes on) and have put together a hardcore masterpiece. It's perfect in just about every aspect. Hard, fast, aggressive but still remaining grounded and extremely positive. It's a record that old school fans can cling to and also a record that new school kids can grab and open a door to the past...not many albums can do that.