It’s Friday, which means we have another pile of new material to pick through. But, while you’re in the midst of that, I am once again asking you to roll back the calendar with me and check out The Conflict. The new album from NYHC crew Xtinguish The Code dropped back on March 27th through Grey Matter Records and it is a frenetic, explorative collection with a defiant attitude and purpose. Bernard Allen (lyricist/vocalist) stepped in to share a little more about himself, this project, and this album. So have at it!

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How and when did you first get into playing music, or metal more specifically, and how did your band get its start? Any pushback from family/those close to you?

I spent some of my childhood in rural Pennsylvania and I had two step brothers who were into metal and hard rock so naturally I gravitated toward that type of music. One year a friend of one of my brothers had come back from college for the summer and he was into punk. He turned me on to the Dead Kennedys and Black Flag. Once I heard that type of sound I was hooked. When I moved back to NY some of my family didn’t get it but I was never encouraged to change who I was.

How would you describe your band and what you play to someone who is completely in the dark?

I would describe Xtinguish The Code as metallic hardcore punk band infused with working class politics. I sometimes describe us to people who have never heard of hardcore as a heavy Rage Against The Machine everyone seems to be familiar with them lol.

Is there anything about your latest album or about your band that no one will find in any interview or review that you care to divulge?

I think the age differences of the band members offers a unique writing experience. I think that’s how we are able to create a familiar yet new sound.

Any funny stories from playing shows / tours / festivals, etc?

I have a habit of almost injuring my band mates due to my energetic stage presence.

What do you see as some of the great things happening in and around the metal scene (yours or just in general) and what are some of the worst things happening right now?

Our scene is pretty diverse and it’s really great to see all types of people throwing down in the pit together. It seems like heavy music is having a big moment right now probably because of the state of the world. I do think it’s weird that some people who grew up listening to punk and hardcore are so willing to kiss the boots of fascist.

Most folks have passions for a cause or causes that are close to them. What, if any, are some of the most important issues (social/political/humorous/etc.) for you / your band and how do you insert those issues into your music?

Working class solidarity is our primary message. We want everyone to realize that fighting amongst one another is exactly how they loot our collective pockets. We all need to focus our attention on the too rich to be prosecuted elites. That theme is woven throughout our newest release.

Do you have day jobs or hobbies you want to share?

I am a welder fabricator NYC stagehand union Local 1.

What advice do you have for music critics and outlets out there? How can we all better serve the genre in the eyes of a hard-working musician?

Unfortunately I think the biggest thing that critics could do is help bands game the algorithm by doing collaborative post on social media or creating playlists would help. Definitely promoting bands Bandcamp or other sites where they get the lion’s share of the profit.

Any specific long term goal(s) in mind?

Our only long term goal is to keep making music fun.

When you’re not obsessing over your own material, what are some of your favorite albums to listen to currently?

I’m all over the place as far as my musical tastes. I’m currently listening to:
Phil Collins (“No Jacket Required”)
Boundaries New Single (“Skies Cast Amber Black”)
Modern Color (“From The Leaves Of Your Garden”)
Zach Bryan (“With Heaven On Top”)

What is the near future outlook for you or your band? Any specific events on the horizon that the masses should be aware of?

We will be playing with All Out War on June 20th with a lot of great bands in NJ come check us out.

Summarize your band in one word.

Rational.

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Many thanks to Bernard and Xtinguish The Code for the time!

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The Conflict is out now through Grey Matter Records. For more information on Xtinguish The Code, head over to Facebook or Instagram.