Battle For L.A. – A Punk Compilation With Purpose
The newly released compilation BATTLE FOR L.A.: a see/saw benefit is a 40-track powerhouse that unites the global punk and rock’n’roll underground for a purpose that hits close to home. Curated by Evan Minsker of the see/saw newsletter, this benefit album gathers previously unreleased songs from many artists, with all proceeds going directly to support individuals and families who lost their homes in the recent Eaton and Palisades fires in Los Angeles.
A Mammoth Collection for a Purpose
From the first track, TY’s “Stuck,” to the closing anthem “Leave It All to the Dogs” by Chelsea, the compilation is a relentless celebration of DIY spirit and musical diversity. The sheer breadth of the lineup is staggering: established acts like Tyvek, Gee Tee, and Sweeping Promises rub shoulders with emerging talents and cult favorites from scenes across the world. Each artist contributed an original or exclusive track, resulting in a collection that feels both urgent and deeply personal.
Standout Moments and Hidden Gems
Highlights abound. Sweeping Promises deliver a striking cover of The Bangles’ “Manic Monday,” recorded in their home studio and imbued with a fresh, punk-tinged vulnerability-a track that, as Lira Mondal recounts, carries both nostalgia and a sense of playful rebellion. Gee Tee’s “Hit With a Club” and DOOM III’s “Outside Dogs” bring raw energy, while Buio Omega’s Hüsker Dü cover pays homage to punk’s roots with a Minneapolis twist.
Shogun’s unearthed song and Panel’s demo “Victoria” add depth and variety, showing the compilation’s range beyond just fast-and-loud. The inclusion of international acts like Australia’s Busted Head Racket, Billiam, and Piss Wizard, alongside Detroit’s TY and COFFER, underscores the global reach and solidarity of the punk community.
Physical Release and DIY Ethos
For collectors, the limited cassette release via Knuckles on Stun-half transparent red, half yellow-offers a tangible piece of punk history, complete with download codes and striking artwork by Tyler Nickell. This physical edition is a nod to the tactile, community-driven ethos that defines the scene.
A Community Effort
What sets BATTLE FOR L.A. apart isn’t just the quality or quantity of music, but the sense of community and urgency that pulses through every track. Each artist’s willingness to contribute unreleased material speaks to a shared commitment to helping those in need. The project’s curation, mastering (by Andres Wade), and artwork all reflect a labor of love, with heartfelt thanks extended to every participant.
“This extensive 40-track compilation showcases a diverse array of unreleased music from artists within the punk and rock’n’roll genres. It highlights contributions from DIY communities around the world, featuring both long-established musicians I’ve admired for years and fresh talent making their debut.”
BATTLE FOR L.A.: a see/saw benefit is more than just a compilation-it’s a testament to punk’s enduring power to rally, resist, and rebuild. For just $10 (or more, if you’re able), you get a massive trove of new music and the chance to directly support those impacted by disaster. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to these scenes, this release is essential listening-and a reminder of how music can make a difference when it matters most.
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