Yeah, this band is totally an example of truth in advertising. Fatal State? Cassette art with skeleton cops and protestors with leftist political messages? Politically charged hardcore band from Portland, Ore.? Yes please. It’s all excellent. Heavy, driving, motivated towards abolition—exactly how stuff like the police state should make you feel. The golden cassette makes you feel like you’re in some sort of punk Willy Wonka universe and you’ve won. It’s been a while since I’ve seen that movie; I’m worried this reference won’t hit correctly. Bottom line: these songs are righteous, anthemic, and forceful. Around this season, it truly does inspire me that there are people who feel this strongly about something important and want to pass that word around like something that will feed us all. It’s deeply appreciated. –Theresa W. (Self-released)