Antagonizers ATL craft earnest take on classic, streetwise sounds

• Antagonizers ATL

Hold Your Ground (Long Shot Music), the latest EP from local street punk and Oi veterans Antagonizers ATL’s, unapologetically captures the spirit of its chosen brand of punk’s progenitors, such as UK legends the Business and the 4-Skins, while still sounding vital. This four song collection, produced and recorded in Marietta, GA by Queers frontman Joe Queer, is highlighted by the catchy choruses, football hooligan backing vocals, and powerful riffs you might expect based on each member’s musical past. After all, singer Bohdan Zacharyj (Vibram 94), guitarist Richard Henderson (A.P.A., No Holds Barred), and drummer Eric Antell (Breakaways, Radio Nowhere) are Oi and street punk veterans, while bassist Billy Fields was once the touring keyboardist for Bad Brains’ frontman H.R. That’s not to say that this is a glorified tribute act, as these songs aren’t just about being tough for the sake of image. There’s a genuine musical and lyrical earnestness to these tracks, highlighted by two lessons in self-respect titled “Believe” and “Hold Your Ground.”

The band’s musical ties have it sharing the stage with fellow veterans like recent tour mates Gang Green, and for its EP release show, the Swingin’ Utters.

Hold Your Ground by Antagonizers ATL
Antagonizers ATL, Swingin’ Utters, and Blacklist Royals play the Masquerade (Hell) on Sat., Nov. 23. $10 adv. 7:30 p.m.