Negative Approach with Incendiary Device, 7 Seconds, and more

Detroit's Negative Approach, pioneers of Midwestern hardcore in the early '80s, led by John Brannon. Known for the aggressive album "Tied Down" and influencing bands like Sonic Youth. Touch and Go released their seminal discography "Total Recall" in 1992.

Formed in the early '80s in Reno, 7 Seconds is a seminal hardcore punk band known for their album "Walk Together, Rock Together." They've worked with labels like Epic and BYO, releasing iconic tracks and influencing the punk scene. Frontman Kevin Seconds also pursued solo projects, collaborating with artists like Matt Skiba.

The Effigies, a key band in Chicago's punk scene, formed around 1980. Known for their impactful, artful punk with shout-along choruses, they influenced bands like Naked Raygun. Hits include "Bodybag." Albums like For Ever Grounded showed a shift to post-punk, working with producer Iain Burgess. Despite struggles and line-up changes, they toured widely. Lead singer John Kezdy, who became a lawyer, occasionally reformed the band. Tragically, Kezdy passed away in 2023, leaving a lasting legacy in punk rock.