Five songs that influenced graphic novelist
Graphic novelist Nate Powell shares some thoughts on five singles from ’90s-era Central Arkansas DIY punk bands that had an influence on him and his new book, “Fall Through.”
Five-O “Fall Through” (File 13 Records; recorded 1993)
Perfectly encapsulating the era, this record inspired so many small elements in “Fall Through,” including 1920s woodcut artwork from perhaps the first graphic novelist, Lynd Ward, as I fell deeper into the rabbit hole to weave his visual symbols into the plot itself. Members were also in Chino Horde, Big Cats, Go Fast, Il Libretina and Numbskulz.
William Martyr 17 “The Celebration of Love” (File 13 Records; recorded 1994)
The details are fuzzy, but William Martyr 17’s first show as a quintet in July 1994 involved the band playing through the A-side, “Professional Beggar,” in total darkness after an electrical failure. This was the first now-mythologized instance of the altered, transcendent state I applied to “Fall Through”’s own Diamond Mine when they play their signature song in the book.
This 7-inch cover is referenced in Diamond Mine’s record cover (hidden underneath the book’s dust jacket!). Members were also in Soophie Nun Squad, Shake Ray Turbine, Generation of Vipers, Aspera and California.
Chino Horde “This Is Done” (Council Records; recorded 1993)
This introspective blast was documented in the final days of their existence at the end of a U.S. tour with Current, cementing Little Rock’s place in a tight network of punk communities which would carry through the decade and beyond. “It feels like leaving.” Members were also in Big Cats, Five O, Thumbnail, California, Acquaintances, Pinhead Gunpowder and Green Day.
Tem Eyos Ki “Aluminalkalyde” (Harlan Records; recorded 2000)
Blazing and relentless, this flawless slab fuses hardcore punk and operatic speed metal to herald the arrival of a band directly responsible for linking all of Central Arkansas’ underground musical sub-scenes into a single, thriving community. Members were also in Soophie Nun Squad,
Sickshine, Universe, Humanbeast and Holy Angell.
Red Forty “Date at the Payphone” (Landmark Records; recorded 1995)
This Jawbreaker-infused trio was the soundtrack to many adolescent romantic pursuits and long-distance heartbreaks. Audible sighs filled the air at some shows. This absolute gem of a band still conjures the golden sensation of spending an entire day crafting a mixtape for someone both beloved and distant. Members were also in Lucero, Substance, Big Cats, Samiam and more.