Behind Enemy Lines (band)
| Industry | Music |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2000 |
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania , United States |
| Products | Crust punk music, crossover thrash |
Behind Enemy Lines is a crust punk band originating from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, recognized for their distinctive crossover thrash sound that combines anarchist crust punk with elements of thrash metal. The ensemble features vocalist Dave Trenga and drummer Matt Garabedian, both formerly part of Aus-Rotten, alongside Mary Bielich (associated with Penance, Mythic, Mud City Manglers, Novembers Doom, Derketa, Wormhole) and guitarist Matt Tuite (known for Wickerman, Penance, Blackfinger, Devil Bell Hippies, Mud City Manglers). Previous guitarist Bill Chamberlain was linked to The Pist and Caustic Christ.
History
Following the dissolution of Aus-Rotten in late 2000, Dave Trenga and Matt Garabedian established the band by enlisting Bill Chamberlain (also from The Pist and Caustic Christ) on guitar and Matt Sachs (formerly of Devastation) handling bass duties. Subsequently, Mary Bielich and Matt Tuite—both former members of Pittsburgh's doom metal outfit Penance—joined the group playing bass and guitar respectively.
In 2007, Bill Chamberlain was succeeded by Ken Houser on guitar.
Lyrical themes
The band's songwriting frequently tackles political topics including animal rights, environmentalism, human rights, LGBT rights, as well as critiques of religion and capitalism. They are particularly noted for their incisive opposition to the George W. Bush administration, addressing issues such as the Iraq War, abuses at Abu Ghraib, civil liberties infringements linked to the Patriot Act, and governmental shortcomings during Hurricane Katrina.
Dave Trenga has also articulated his political perspectives through essays published on Myspace and the band's official website. These writings notably denounce Christianity's role in America as fostering hatred and intolerance, expressing a desire to see its influence wane.
Discography
- Know Your Enemy (2002) Tribal War Records
- Reissued in 2005 by Profane Existence Records
- The Global Cannibal (2003) Released as US LP & CD via Antagony Media; European LP through Alerta Antifascista Records
- One Nation Under the Iron Fist of God (2006) Profane Existence Records
Current members
- Dave Trenga – lead vocals (2000–2009, 2015–present)
- Matt Garabedian – drums (2000–2009, 2015–present)
- "Metal" Mary Bielich – bass (2002–2008, 2015–present)
- Matt Tuite – guitar (2000–2009, 2015–present)
Former Members
- Matt Sachs – bass (2000–2002, 2008–2009)
- Bill Chamberlain – guitar (2000–2007)
- Ken Houser – guitar (2007)
Timeline