Savage Mystic is a metallic punk band from Philadelphia, featuring current and former members of Devil Master, The Banner, and more.
We (Academy Order) had the pleasure of sharing the stage with them in Newark, and touring with their drummer, Jake Blochinger, early on. The band cuts; everything I want out of punk, metal and the chasm between them.
I sat down wih lead guitarist Francis Kano to discuss Savage Mystic, Philadelphia, and their new EP, Active Crime.
How long has Savage Mystic been active, and how did you all come together?
We started right before the pandemic. Our core members have played together since highschool in countless projects, and this band has survived several lineups to finally having our first proper release.
Where is the band based now, and what do you find notable about being from there?
Delco born, Philly proud. There is a unique charm to the well earned notoriety this city has, which lends itself to her children who are willing to wallow in her seedy underbelly. Savage Mystic is 100% Philadelphia - we would say even too much so for most else who claim such.
The only downside of this would be for anyone else having to deal with us, including each other. We are also definitely proud to have our Jersey legend and brother Jake drumming for us now.
What are some of the band's influences?
Musically, the idea was to start what I thought would make good hardcore. Having played bass in Integrity for almost a decade, I have witnessed what I consider a severe lack of riffs in this style of music. This has led to hardcore people denying us the label, and so be it.
The Holy Terror collective, which includes many bands of different styles have always been an influence, straying from the norm of what is considered 'hardcore.' As a band we all agree on Integrity, Kickback, and AFI. There is a deep respect for more local legendary bands too such as Minor Times and One Dead Three Wounded.
Tell us about some of the subject matter you cover on Active Crime.
Nitty's lyrics/prose/raps are a quixotic trip touching on personal struggles of a former drug dealer/addict through literary, life and biblical references. Your own guided tour through Hell (aka Philadelphia). Not unlike William Faulkner meets Hunter S Thompson
.
Are you working with a label for the new record?
Active Crime is being released through Dark Empire Records, Dwid Hellion's infamous label from the '90s now under the ownership of our friend Alex.
READ MORE: Dark Empire: A Conversation with the New Owner of the Resurrected ‘90s Record Label
What are Savage Mystic's touring plans?
Below is our tour flyer including select dates with PA's heaviest band The Virgos, Funeral Dancer, and the infamous Psywarfare, aka Dwid Hellion of Integrity:
Any final thoughts?
Thank you for the time! God below looks upon us. See y'all on the other side.
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Active Crime is available now via Dark Empire Records.
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