Insted
What We Believe (1990)
Epitaph Records
Rating: 3 out of 4 Pentagrams
Reviewed by: Jeff Deth
Insted was one of the few bands on the Epitaph label in 89/90, a few years before it became the hot indie-punk phenomenon. Unfortunately the band didn’t stay together long enough to join lablemates Pennywise and NOFX on a rise to underground fame. I remember feeling pretty cool when I first found the CD in the mid-nineties due to the fact that they were on the label and yet unknown to my friends.
On their sole release, “What We Believe”, Insted proves themselves to be a very sharp and competent hardcore band. This album is a last stand for the second-wave of a straight-edge movement, which lost steam in the 90’s decade. The sound is similar in style to Gorilla Biscuits but with a shot of 7 Seconds skate punk. Equal parts of both coasts, fast and heavy. They are a wave of passion and strength. Showcasing fight songs about staying true to yourself, living straight and celebrating youth, there is not a moment of pessimism to be found. This is a very positive band, dedicated to their scene and what it means to live hardcore.
While many straight-edge bands came off heavy-handed and belligerent, Insted says what they have to say while not necessarily excluding anyone. As one song puts it, there are “No Rules”.
I find this to be an invigorating listen with every listen. Although they wear their influences heavily, there is enough individuality in their mix to keep things interesting. What I think most of when I listen to this record is the promise of a young band and what else they might have done had they carried on.
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