The Scarred
The Scarred emerged as an American garage punk band originating from Anaheim, California, formed in 2003. Affiliated with the East Coast-based label Jailhouse Records, the band, led by Samuel Clemens, distinguishes itself as one of the few remaining old-school punk groups active from Anaheim. Known for their unique sound, they skillfully blend elements of 1970s punk rock, soul, and classic rock.
History
Formation
In 2003, The Scarred was founded by Justin “Scarred” Willits, Matt “Monkey” Hatcher, Isha Rose, and Jordan Thompson. With prior band experience, they quickly started performing live shows alongside notable punk rock acts like Naked Aggression, The Adicts, Menace, Cheap Sex, The Skeptix, and more. Following the departure of Isha, Ben 9000, known for his role in Rezurex and Jeffree Star, joined as the drummer.
Repression
The band’s demo, recorded in the back room of a radio station, garnered positive reviews from underground fanzines, including California’s legendary MRR. Capitalizing on this, The Scarred recorded their debut album, Repression, released in February 2004. The album sold out quickly during their first U.S. tour, gaining attention not only for their albums but also for their energetic live performances.
The success of Repression led to the recording of a split seven-inch with New Jersey punk band Void Control in early 2005, earning the band more acclaim. The release, available on limited Coke bottle Green colored Vinyl, sold out immediately.
No Solution
In August 2005, The Scarred received a record deal from a New York street-punk label, leading to the recording of their second album, No Solution. Released in April 2006, the album received positive reviews in the United States and Europe. The band continued to tour and faced challenges, including the cancellation of a Washington, DC show due to a venue stabbing.
2007 – 2008
After a tour, the band announced recording sessions for a forthcoming record but had to cancel due to fatigue and lack of funds. During Isha’s pregnancy, they played limited shows. In March 2007, their baby was born, and The Scarred planned to return to work, including the third annual Clampdown Tour in June and July 2007. However, an accident forced the band to drop off the tour as Justin Scarred broke his leg.
In late 2008, The Scarred released their third full-length album, At Half Mast, under Basement Records. The album was recorded with contributions from the original bass player, Matt “Monkey” Hatcher. The band faced challenges, including Isha’s departure due to tendonitis, but they recruited Ben 9000 as the permanent drummer.
2010 and On
In 2010, frontman Justin Scarred announced his focus on writing a new album, while other band members pursued activities with their respective bands. The Scarred played limited East Coast tour dates in 2010.
Permanent Hiatus
As of 2013, The Scarred announced a permanent hiatus, having completed two unreleased songs. The band remains inactive, with Justin Scarred transitioning to a full-time creator on YouTube, exploring content related to Route 66, Disneyland, and other places.
Discography
Albums
- Repression (February 14, 2004, Shogun 77 Records)
- No Solution (April 4, 2006, Punk Core Records)
- Repression Re-Issue w/ Live and Rare tracks (2007, Bouncing Betty Records)
- At Half Mast (June 23, 2009, Basement Records)
- Live Fast Die Poor (September 23, 2011, Jailhouse Records)
EPs
- Self-Titled (October 2003, 4-song CDEP Demo, limited to 500 copies)
- Split 7 (Split Vinyl 7″ with New Jersey’s Void Control. 2005 Puke N Vomit Records)
- Panic! EP (Limited digital release in the United States Oct-Nov 2008)
- Split EP (Split vinyl 7″ and CD-ep with China’s “The Noname” released in China and Germany December 2008)
- Defiance/The Scarred (Split vinyl 7″ from Jailhouse records, July 20, 2011)
Singles
- “It Ain’t Easy” (October 1, 2010, limited iTunes release)
- “Randomland”
DVDs
- Pure Punk Rock (March 27, 2006, Punk Core Records)
Music Videos
- “Phillip Arellano” (December 12, 2011, Punk Core Records)
