VARIOUS ARTISTS

International P.E.A.C.E.

(R Radical) Used 2xLP $30.00

Songs by 55 hardcore bands from around the world addressing the dangers of the global arms race and the threat of nuclear war. As the acronym Peace, Energy, Action, Cooperation, and Evolution makes explicit, Reagan-era hardcore had grown into a global phenomenon, and hardcore was ready to work hand in hand with leftist politics. In line with the ideals of the project, MDC’s Dave Dictor and his R Radical Records label released the album as a fundraiser, with the profits slated for various anti-nuclear groups and activities worldwide. Released in 1984, most of the best and best-known hardcore acts of the day appear, including MDC, Dead Kennedys, Crass, D.O.A., Butthole Surfers, the Dicks, D.R.I., False Prophets, and Subhumans, as well as bands from Italy, Denmark, Argentina, Germany, Spain, Japan, and South Africa. The comp includes a 72-page booklet coordinated by the editors of Maximum Rock’n’Roll packed with political rants, cartoons, suggestions for further reading, and calls for activism against corrupt authority. Each band is provided with a full page to express their ideas (and plug their wares) with printed lyrics and crudely effective collage art. Some corner dings scuffing on jacket edges.