Jesse’s Basement Reviews DCxPC Live Vol. 16 Skappository / Scum Shots Live 12”
A Punk Infused Riot
DCxPC has been putting out some gems in both their Live series and the new Live and Dead series since 2021. Volume 16 featuring Long Island, New York’s Skappository and Staten Island New York’s Scum Shots is shaping up to be one of the best. Let’s dive in!
Side 1: Skappository
Skappository storms into the scene with "DCxPC Live Vol. 16," the explosive first half of a split release that'll leave your heart pounding and your feet tapping.
Comprised of Tony Morace, Jess DeBellis, Christian Lesperance, Mike Nigro, and Dominic Barranco, this Long Island crew emanates vibes reminiscent of The Suicide Machines and the more rocksteady side of Rancid, infused with the fiery spirit of Leftöver Crack.
Their lyrics dive right into the party with "The Blood I Bleed," setting the tone for an inclusive gathering where differences dissolve, and harmony prevails. It's a sweaty, streetpunk-infused ska-punk experience, each track leaving you wanting more. Check this out:
The color of my skin
nor my religion or creed
Changes the color of the blood I bleed
Don’t have to see eye to eye
don’t always have to agree
As long as we can live in harmony
Skappository's performance drips with sweat and enthusiasm you can hear, delivering short, punchy, and highly singable tunes. Tony Morace's vocals channel the energy of Al Barr and Dickey Barrett, igniting a fervor that's equal parts ass-shakin' and pit creatin'. It's a force of raw energy for sure!
I can't help but wish there was a video release alongside this live album, as experiencing Skappository live seems like an entirely different level of chaotic delight.
Side 2: Scum Shots
Scum Shots explodes onto the second half of "DCxPC Live Vol. 16," delivering a passionate sonic assault that teeters between frantic energy and heartfelt resonance.
Hailing from Staten Island, Ricky Vega, Jamie Crispino, Nick Parisi, and Mike Sanbeg concoct a sound reminiscent of Metz and the Blind Shake, fused with shades of Alkaline Trio, creating a captivating musical cocktail.
While pinpointing specific lyrics might be tricky, Ricky Vega’s vocals echo with a powerful, mournful passion— like a happy cry or gray clouds with sun rays breaking through. Is he happy? Is he sad? Why not both? That’s passion and that’s passion that makes each track a frantic, consensual bout of aggressive making out that leaves lips torn and hearts racing.
In "D.I.T.N.O.L.," guitars clash like furious dragons fighting for treasure, a battle that feels both desperate and exhilarating—a testament to Scum Shots' dynamism. Their range shifts from surfy ska vibes to darker, bolder tones, creating a delightful dichotomy.
I can only imagine that witnessing this band live—whether in a bar or a basement—feels like getting caught up in a tumultuous pit of emotions. The split release vinyl beckons, offering an enthralling musical journey through Scum Shots' raw passion.
Final thoughts
Skappository's contribution to "DCxPC Live Vol. 16" is a heart-pounding, sweat-inducing, and utterly captivating display of streetpunk-infused ska. Scum Shots' contribution to "DCxPC Live Vol. 16" is an enthralling rollercoaster ride, navigating between passionate aggression and soulful resonance. Both bands creating a sonic experience that leaves me eager for more from these raucus New York neighbors.
