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.
At the end of 1987 Sammy Siegler (ex-SIDE BY SIDE) became the new drummer and in 1988, YOUTH OF TODAY
recorded their classic second LP We’re Not In This Alone. The songs were born from the band’s dedication to
straight edge, positive living, and the strength of the both the individual and of a generation. Full of energy and
inspiration, this record was an essential step in the development of hardcore.
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