National Razor
National Razor, also known as National Razor, F.D.I.C., emerged as a dynamic American punk rock band in 1998, hailing from Baltimore, Maryland. Drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Stiff Little Fingers, The Clash, and the Ramones, they added a touch of experimentation with new wave and hardcore elements.
Band Members
The original lineup featured:
- Erik Sunday – Lead vocals, bass guitar
- Frank Burgess – Lead guitar, occasional lead vocals
- Dee Settar – Rhythm guitar, occasional lead vocals
- David Andler – Drums, backing vocals (also the founder of Morphius Records)
U.S. East Coast Triumphs
National Razor gained prominence on the U.S. East Coast with the release of their debut album, Finally Death Is Coming, in 1999. This album earned critical acclaim from influential publications like Maximum Rock’N’Roll and Hit List. The band embarked on a U.S. tour alongside Italian hardcore band Raw Power.
Lineup Changes and Artistic Contributions
After Settar’s departure post their debut album, David Israel (lead guitar, backing vocals) joined the group. The subsequent release, Friends Don’t Invite Cops (2001), featured the noteworthy anti-drug anthem “Do You Wanna Get High Tonight?”—considered one of the band’s impactful contributions to punk music. The release was a split with UK Subs, and the two bands shared stages across the U.S.
Friction, Departures, and Evolutions
Internal conflicts led to drummer David Andler’s departure, replaced by Jim Schaffer. Burgess left in 2005, succeeded by Carl from the ’90s local band Rebel Truce. Unfortunately, recordings engineered in 2003 and 2005, including the unreleased track “123 Go!,” faced delays.
Post-Wall Albums and Impact
Before Mapleshade released Naked Before God and Country, National Razor’s unique blend of influences garnered praise from music photographer and art critic Eldon Baldwin. Their politically charged lyrics and rebellious attitude influenced the resurgence of punk rock bands in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., area after 2000.
Reunions and Unfinished Projects
Reunions in 2005 and 2008 included original members, showcasing the band’s enduring spirit. Despite unreleased recordings and unfinished projects, National Razor continued sporadic performances, sharing stages with notable acts. A significant reunion in 2011 and Frank Burgess’s return in 2016 injected fresh energy into the band.
Present and Future Endeavors
The current lineup features Erik Sunday, Dave Israel, Jim Schaffer, and Frank Burgess. With Frank Burgess’s permanent return in 2016, National Razor is actively rehearsing, writing new material, and aiming to record and release new songs. Their future plans include presenting the unreleased 2009 material alongside new compositions in a comprehensive album titled Five Dollars in Change.
Discography
- Finally Death Is Coming (1999, Morphius)
- “Tear Me Down” on Our Voices Must Be Heard compilation (2000, Silent Records)
- Friends Don’t Invite Cops – split release with UK Subs (2001, VMS/Morphius)
- “Do You Wanna Get High Tonight” on Food Not Bombs compilation (2002, Silent Records)
- Naked Before God and Country (2006, Mapleshade Records)
