Yesterday and Today: DC Does Dischord
For Love of Records (Various Artists)
May 20, 2024WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a celebration of the indomitable spirit of the Washington, D.C. punk scene, local DIY effort For Love Of Records began shipping their first-ever release titled Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord on May 20, 2024. Announced in January, the double-LP album compilation emerges as a formidable homage to the iconic D.C. label Dischord Records. Featuring a staggering lineup of 27 bands covering an equal number of songs from the label’s catalog, this compilation record pays tribute to the influential label that has shaped generations of music lovers and revolutionized the punk and hardcore music landscape. A labor of love conceptualized and organized by Greg Raelson, a D.C.-area music fan and bassist for local punk band Celebration Summer, Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord showcases the diversity and dynamism of Dischord's almost 44-year history. From blistering punk anthems to introspective and obscure rock, each track offers a unique interpretation of the label's rich legacy, breathing new life into timeless classics and hidden gems alike. "Dischord Records isn't just a label; it's a cornerstone of D.C.'s cultural and musical identity," said Raelson. "With this album, I wanted to honor the profound impact Dischord has had on me personally, as well as the D.C. community and beyond.” Spanning genres and generations, the lineup for Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord reads like a “Who's Who” of the Washington D.C., Maryland, and northern Virginia (DMV) area's current vibrant music scene. From legendary acts like Dismemberment Plan, Ted Leo, J. Robbins, and The Pietasters, to lesser-known artists, each band brings their own distinct voice and style to the table, creating a tapestry of sound that captures the essence of Dischord. The project was produced almost exclusively locally in the DMV. From working with Reston, Va. fine and graphic artists Ben Morse and Mike Wang for the art and layout to having vinyl pressing plant Furnace Records in Alexandria, Va. handle the production, Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord reads as a love-letter not just to Dischord, but to the greater Washington, D.C. area. A portion of the proceeds will go to help local Washington, D.C. senior outreach charity We Are Family DC and an all-ages record release show featuring Celebration Summer and others will be held at The Black Cat in Washington, DC on July 5. Whether a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the scene, this compilation promises to be a must-have addition to all music collections. Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord is available now for digital download and as a limited-edition gatefold double-LP in two different variants which can be found on the order link and For Love of Records bandcamp page.