Antisect
Antisect is an influential English punk rock band based in London, originally formed in 1982 in Daventry. Known for blending anarcho-punk with elements of hardcore and metal, their sound has had a lasting impact on punk and extreme music scenes. Antisect’s lyrics often explore topics like animal rights, social justice, and anarchism, resonating with punk audiences for decades. Though the band initially split in 1987, they reformed in 2011 and have continued to perform and release new material.
History
Antisect began as a fast-paced, D-beat punk band with their 1984 debut album In Darkness There is No Choice, released on Spiderleg Records. The album was a critical success, reaching No. 3 on the UK Indie Chart. Their second release, the 1985 Out from the Void EP, further established their fusion of punk and metal influences, pushing boundaries in the hardcore scene.
Throughout the mid-1980s, the band faced numerous lineup changes. They toured extensively in the UK and Europe, often associated with the anarcho-punk scene and the emerging London squat scene. Despite working on a second album (tentatively titled Welcome to the New Dark Ages), the band disbanded in 1987 before completing it.
After a 24-year hiatus, Antisect reformed in 2011, with original members Pete Lyons and Pete Boyce, as well as new additions Laurence Windle, Tim Andrews, and Joe Burwood. They embarked on a series of tours across Europe and the US, and in 2017, released their long-awaited follow-up album The Rising of the Lights through Rise Above Records.
Musical Style and Legacy
Antisect’s music combines the aggression of hardcore punk with elements of metal, making them a key influence in the anarcho-punk and crust punk scenes. Their lyrics reflect a deep commitment to political and social activism, addressing topics like environmentalism, animal rights, and anti-authoritarianism.
Widely considered pioneers in their genre, Antisect has left a lasting legacy on black-clad, politically conscious punks. Their fusion of raw punk energy with a heavier, more metallic sound has inspired countless bands within punk, crust, and extreme music scenes.
Discography
Studio Albums
- In Darkness There is No Choice – LP, 1984
- The Rising of the Lights – LP, 2017 (Rise Above Records)
EPs
- Out from the Void – EP, 1985
Live Albums
- Hallo There How’s Life – 1991
- Peace is Better than a Place in History – 1993
- Leeds 02.04.86 – 2010
- Live in Sweden – 2018 (Incendiary Music)
Singles
- 4 Minutes Past Midnight/Out from the Void (Part 2) – Tour 10″, 2012
Band Members
Current Members
- Pete Lyons – Guitar/Vocals
- Jason Coppock – Bass/Vocals
- Joe Burwood – Drums/Vocals
Former Members
- Pete Boyce – Vocals
- Chris Caps – Vocals
- Tim Andrews – Vocals
- Laurence Windle – Bass
- John Bryson – Bass
- Pete Paluskiewicz – Drums
- Renusze Rokicki – Bass
- Caroline Wallis – Vocals
Legacy and Influence
Antisect has been a vital influence in anarcho-punk, hardcore punk, and crust punk movements. Their fusion of raw punk energy with heavy, metallic elements made them pioneers of their sound. Bands influenced by Antisect often cite the group’s socially conscious lyrics, commitment to activism, and DIY ethic as key inspirations. Their music and message continue to resonate with punk audiences worldwide.
