Broadtexter Weekly

It’s nice to see that the Punk/Rock scene is alive and well in Los Angeles, thanks in part to bands such as Still Standing.  Still Standing, started by twin brothers Justin and Johnny, are no strangers to hardship and adversity.  When they were only 14 years old their lives were turned upside down by the loss of their father.  The brothers were moved to a new neighborhood and consequently found themselves in the middle of fights, being the outsiders.  With that tragedy as a childhood background, it’s no wonder that Justin and Johnny found their voice in Punk/Rock music.  The two banded together and found strength in one another and in the music that they were creating.  They taught themselves guitar with the guitars their father (also a musician) left behind.  Finally drummer Alex Z. stepped in and Still Standing was born.

One of the things I like most about Still Standing are the messages within their songs.  They are a hard-thrashing rock band but if you actually listen to the lyrics of the songs, you’ll hear that they have quite powerful and positive messages in their music.  They manage to stay true to their convictions and give incredibly powerful life advice without being cheesy or corny….which not all bands are able to do.  One song that stands out in particular to me is ‘Never Be Afraid’ which is available on their Myspace page.   The chorus repeats NEVER BE AFRAID TO A STAND FOR SOMETHING THAT YOU BELIEVE IN / DON’T LET THE PRESSURE GET YOU DOWN / ALWAYS STAND UP PROUD / STAND UP NOW.  Still Standing are also masters at writing a solid pop/hook chorus with infectious melodies.  

Still Standing found themselves once at the center of a growing punk rock scene in Philadelphia.  After establishing a strong fan base and creating a buzz, they finished a showcase for a friend at Sony Records and had the opportunity to make their way to Los Angeles to record with Producer Tommy Henriksen (Clear Static, Balay, Mighty Six Ninety).  After completing their six-song EP, they met Songwriter/Producer Marti Frederiksen (Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, Motley Crue) and began recording their full-length record.  They also added second guitarist Lonny Paul to the the bands line-up.  

Be sure to check out this Hard Rock Punk band and their ability to say something strong and positive while not losing their cutting edge.

Still Standing - Links