Kid Dynamite Albums (4)
'Cheap Shots, Youth Anthems'
Release Date 9/16/2003
Tracks 31
Label Jade Tree
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
East Coast hardcore powerhouse Kid Dynamite split up in 2000. Cheap Shots, Youth Anthems is a collection of rarities and liner note reminiscences from the bandmembers. The band's hardcore energy and frenzied approach is evident throughout the 29 tracks. There are four "classic" cuts taken from the band's two albums; five covers, including a rip-roaring "Hateful" by the Clash and tracks by Black Flag ("Rise Above"), the Circle Jerks ("Deny Everything"), Minor Threat ("I Don't Wanna Hear About It"), and the Dead Kennedys ("Macho Insecurity"); six songs that were singer Jason Shevchuk's audition for the band; seven demo outtakes (four of which were for songs that ended up on its first record); and seven songs recorded on 94 WYSP radio in Philadelphia. The disc also comes with a bonus DVD filled with live footage, show flyers, and other stuff. It is always nice when a band breaks up to have a disc that gathers up all the loose ends. When done right, it can ease the sting of loss for the fans and bring a sense of closure. Jade Tree and Kid Dynamite have done it right. Extra points for the hilarious tribute to the Who's Odds & Sods on the CD's cover. ~ Tim Sendra, All Music Guide
'Shorter, Faster, Louder'
Release Date 2/7/2000
Tracks 18
Label Jade Tree
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Shorter, Faster, Louder is a fine sophomore album, refining the aggression and intelligence of Kid Dynamite's eponymous debut while upping the adrenaline rush of the music ever so slightly. That said, all of the hallmarks in the band's East Coast hardcore punk sound are still very much in place, and the distinctions between the two records are fairly subtle. Fans who enjoyed the first album will undoubtedly relish this one too, especially in light of the unfortunate fact that it's Kid Dynamite's last -- just prior to Shorter, Faster, Louder's release, vocalist Jason Shevchuk departed to pursue a film career, and the remainder of the band elected to break up. ~ Steve Huey, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
What happens when a struggling band like Lifetime finally gets the underground recognition and following it deserves, only to break up soon after its popularity explodes? Simple -- the bandmembers start another group in an attempt to recapture that fame (with some additional help by the tag "featuring ex-members of Lifetime"). Not that the members of Kid Dynamite are riding on the coattails of their previous band -- as a matter of fact, the guitarist is the only former member of Lifetime, but unfortunately it's impossible for them to escape that niche. But they try their hardest with more energy and aggression (dare it be said -- more of an East Coast hardcore sound) under the influences of Gorilla Biscuits and Sick of It All. Sure, there's the occasional moment of harmonized whoa-uh-ohs that are reminiscent of Lifetime, but make no mistake: this is a whole new project that's starting from scratch. ~ Mike DaRonco, All Music Guide
