YOUTH OF TODAY was initially active from 1985 to 1990 before reforming in 2010. The band played a major
role in establishing the “youth crew” subculture of hardcore, both espousing and evolving the philosophies
of the straight edge and vegetarian lifestyles. Formed in Danbury, Connecticut by two members of the hardcore
band VIOLENT CHILDREN, Ray Cappo (vocals) and John Porcelly (aka Porcell, guitar) were aiming to start a
straight edge band at a time when most old school straight edge bands had disbanded. Having difficulty finding
a bassist and drummer, Ray and Porcell found help from two high school friends, Graham Phillips and Darren
Pesce, who had played with Porcell in a band called THE YOUNG REPUBLICANS in the past.
In 1986, UNDERDOG vocalist Richie Birkenhead joined the band on second guitar. With this lineup, the first
YOUTH OF TODAY full-length album was recorded, entitled Break Down The Walls. More than just an album;
it’s an anthem for a way of life.
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