Final Conflict “Ashes to Ashes” CD

It seems almost shockingly uncommon to come across mention of Final Conflict these days (there doesn't even seem to be that much out there on the net about 'em), perhaps because the California hardcore/punk act wasn't the most prolific band out there in their day, but whatever the case their debut LP is a classic slab of fast hardcore/punk with just a tinge of that early crossover metal edge. It might not be the most original thing you've ever heard, but there's no denying that there's a certain vibe to the material that sets the band apart, and a number of these songs are timeless standards to this day... so even if the band name's not familiar for some bizarre reason, I bet you've heard at least one of these tracks in one form or another over the years.

Aside from their 1985 demo and scattered compilation appearances, the mighty "Ashes to Ashes" LP (Pusmort, 1987) was the band's sole release during their first wave—cranking out 14 tracks in barely less than a half-hour. Original members Ron Martinez (vocals) and Jeff Harp (guitars) later reformed the band and did a couple of 7"s on Bacteria Sour during the mid-90's, then a split 7" and the "Rebirth" full-length in 1997—all of which was apparently fairly solid (I've only heard "Rebirth" myself, though I don't own it). I'm not exactly sure what became of them afterwards, I believe Harp may have continued alone with a few different lineups, but I was honestly never that interested in much beyond their mid- to late-80's outing.

Final Conflict "Apocalypse Now"
Final Conflict "Abolish Police"
Final Conflict "Constant Fear"

"Ashes to Ashes" has been reissued on CD (with bonus tracks) a couple of times over the years, and though I believe all versions are technically out of print, it's actually still pretty easy to come by, which is always a good thing:

Amazon.com
Half.com

Random aside: A 10-year-old Civ track suddenly popping up in a Nissan commercial? What the fuck!?

And hey, people, what's up with slacking on the comments, eh? 500+ downloads already this week and, what, one fucking comment? That's weak, folks. If you hate these songs, fair enough, but do me a god damn favor and let me know if you like the shit, alright? I hate feeling like I'm spinning my wheels for nothin' over here! And that goes for all of these other mp3 blogs out there, too. Don't just leech the tunes and take off, at least leave these cats some feedback from time to time! It's definitely appreciated, thanks.