In the late 90s, no one carried the torch for Youth Crew hardcore like FASTBREAK. Formed in 1994, the Connecticut band quickly made a name for themselves in the New England area, thanks to their explosive approach to fast-paced hardcore music and unrelenting positivity. Their sound was a true successor to the upbeat style of bands like Gorilla Biscuits and Youth of Today. Their energy made them a staple in Connecticut hardcore, as they became a fixture playing alongside bands like H2O, Bane, Ten Yard Fight, Right Brigade, and more.
Despite their significant impact on the hardcore scene, Fastbreak's recordings had long been out of print and unavailable on streaming services. We are so excited that Iodine Records is able to re-release Fastbreak’s seminal debut album, Fast Cars, Fast Women, and that we are able to offer an exclusive variant (limited to 200). Originally released in 1998, every idea, riff, and rhythm on the record feels as fresh as ever. Songs like “Said and Done” and “Places Trades” are bursting with pure exuberance and energy. In a time when bands were getting darker and gloomier, Fastbreak was a breath of fresh air, bringing a more inviting energy to the genre.
Fastbreak’s ideas were extremely ahead of their time, predicting the future fusion of hardcore and pop-punk that would go on to take over the world. Their influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, blending the raw energy of hardcore with the immediacy of a positive attitude and approach. It’s a painfully underrated record, but thankfully, listeners now have a chance to realize just what was going on.
Fastbreak’s Fast Cars, Fast Women features Patrick Rorick on vocals, Steven Pica and Neal St. Clair on guitar, Don Raymond on bass, and Luke Garro on drums. The album was produced by Dean Baltulonis and mastered at Metropolis Studios, and features liner notes written by Chris Wrenn (Bridge Nine Records) and Rama Mayo (BWR).
Due out March 28, 2025 - pre-orders will begin shipping on or around that date.