Description
The Faction – Corpse in Disguise – Blue Vinyl Record
Corpse in Disguise is an EP by the American skate punk band The Faction, released in 1984. Known for their strong ties to skateboarding culture and the DIY ethos of punk rock, The Faction was one of the first bands to fuse hardcore punk with themes centered around skateboarding and youth rebellion. This EP, their third release, showcases the band’s evolving sound and deeper lyrical content, capturing a slightly darker and more reflective tone compared to their earlier releases like No Hidden Messages. Featuring tight riffs, relentless energy, and raw, socially aware lyrics, Corpse in Disguise became a staple in the skate punk scene and cemented The Faction’s role as influential pioneers of the genre.
Formed in San Jose, California, in 1982, The Faction was deeply embedded in the skateboarding world, with professional skateboarder Steve Caballero on bass. By the time Corpse in Disguise was released, the band had established themselves as influential voices in skate punk, known for blending fast-paced punk rock with lyrics that resonated with skaters and punk fans alike. This EP reflects The Faction’s growth as musicians and songwriters, bringing more introspection and complexity to their work while retaining the high-speed, aggressive energy of early California hardcore punk.
Stylistically, Corpse in Disguise stays true to the band’s skate punk roots, but the songwriting shows greater maturity, and the themes venture into darker territory, exploring personal struggle, societal expectations, and identity.
Key Tracks
“Corpse in Disguise” – The title track is a standout, with a heavier and slightly slower feel than some of their earlier work. The lyrics reflect feelings of alienation and frustration, speaking to the struggles of maintaining individuality in a conformist world. The song’s ominous tone and biting lyrics give it a haunting, rebellious edge.
“Pegged for Life” – A classic Faction track, “Pegged for Life” is a fast-paced anthem that speaks to the pressures young people face to conform. The lyrics critique societal expectations and the lack of freedom many feel growing up, making it a relatable and enduring track for fans of punk rock.
“Friends and Enemies” – This track dives into the complexities of relationships, addressing themes of loyalty, trust, and betrayal. With its catchy chorus and energetic beat, “Friends and Enemies” reflects the band’s ability to tackle personal topics while keeping the energy high and the punk spirit alive.
The themes in Corpse in Disguise reflect a mix of introspection, societal critique, and personal struggle. The title track, “Corpse in Disguise,” suggests themes of conformity, disillusionment, and the feeling of being “dead inside” while attempting to fit in. Other songs, like “Pegged for Life” and “Friends and Enemies,” continue the band’s exploration of personal autonomy, distrust of societal pressures, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Produced with a raw, gritty sound, the EP captures the intensity and urgency of The Faction’s live performances. The lo-fi production aligns with the DIY ethos of punk rock, giving it an authentic and unpolished feel that enhances its direct, in-your-face impact. The fast guitar riffs, relentless bass lines, and aggressive drumming create a sound that is both hard-hitting and accessible, appealing to punk fans and skaters alike.
Corpse in Disguise was well-received within the punk and skateboarding communities and solidified The Faction’s place in the skate punk scene. Songs like “Pegged for Life” and the title track “Corpse in Disguise” became fan favorites and were celebrated for their raw energy and relatable themes. Though The Faction never achieved widespread mainstream success, their impact on skate punk and DIY culture remains significant.
The EP influenced many bands in the skate punk genre, and The Faction’s ethos and sound paved the way for later bands like JFA, Suicidal Tendencies, and Pennywise. The combination of skate culture and punk rock that The Faction promoted through this EP helped shape the identity of skate punk, inspiring countless skaters and musicians alike.
Corpse in Disguise stands as a defining record in The Faction’s discography and a landmark release in skate punk history. With its introspective themes, raw sound, and energetic delivery, the EP captures the struggles, frustrations, and hopes of youth in a way that continues to resonate with fans of punk rock and skateboarding. For fans of skate punk and 1980s hardcore, Corpse in Disguise is an essential listen, offering a snapshot of the era and the enduring power of DIY punk. The EP’s influence on both skate culture and punk music has cemented its place as a cult classic and a key contribution to the skate punk genre.
RSD 2016 release. 1500 pressed.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Corpse In Disguise
Friends And Enemies
100 Years War
The Brain
Pegged For Life
The Demons
