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Tuesday, September 21, 2004

Dag Nasty - Under Your Influence

Taken from the 1985 demo tape with Shawn Brown on vocals

Dag Nasty - Under Your Influence.mp3
The mid 80's saw the end of the first wave of classic DC hardcore bands (Minor Threat, Artificial Peace, Faith ) and the birth of the second, more melodic wave ( Gray Matter, Marginal Man, Rites of Spring, etc ) of which Dag Nasty was a part. The version of "Under your Influence" here is from the '85 demo tape with Shawn Brown ( soon to be frontman for Swiz ). Brown left Dag Nasty after the recording of this demo and was replaced by ex DYS screamer Dave Smalley. The demo was partly released in 1991 by Selfless as part of the now out of print 7" box set 85-86.

Most of the songs on this demo tape (including "Under Your Influence") were re-recorded with Dave Smalley on vocals and released as their debut album. Can I Say is an ageless classic. Powerful, melodic riffs, Smalley's tough and emotive vocals, and subtle straight edge influenced lyrics. Close to a perfect album. This is a must have.