Song of the Day: Backlash, “Self Assured,” from Inside (Break Even Point, 1994)

Backlash stands amidst a long line of New Jersey hardcore bands from the '90s and beyond of which I'm a big fan, and I was first exposed to this track on a killer compilation CD that came with issue #8 of Inside Front zine back in 1996. Of course, shit happens, so it wasn't until the band's Through Different Eyes discography hit the streets a few years ago that I finally took the time to thoroughly explore their work; but, hey, I got around to it.

Despite the fact that its admirable message is one that I struggle to identify with in my own life, "Self Assured" is pretty much the gold standard as far as heavy, groove-laden, motivational hardcore is concerned. The way that hammering bassline kicks things off is absolutely priceless, immediately setting a forceful tone and laying the groundwork for some exceptionally energetic vocal arrangements. Short, memorable, and to the point, "Self Assured" remains my personal favorite of the band's catalog—they really accomplished something special here.

These days, Backlash is actually back in action with a brand new album, Where's the Pride, out now on Eulogy Recordings. It seems they've picked up right where they left off, without missing a beat!