"Another State of Mind" Featuring Youth Brigade, Social Distortion and Minor Threat

In commemoration of the upcoming celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday and in the spirit of his philosophy of judging people by the content of their character...I present to you you the film "Another State of Mind."

This incredible documentary details the ambitious international tour by Youth Brigade and Social Distortion in 1982. The film was released in 1984. I was lucky enough to catch a screening of it on "Night Flight" (remember Night Flight?) and the film really stayed with me. The story begins in California with Shawn Stern from Youth Brigade explaining his goals for the tour followed by a quick study of the converted school bus that will take them on the tour. The bus is the life force that literally takes the bands on their journey across North America, and along with the driver/mechanic Monk, it becomes another character in the story.  Read more and watch the movie after the jump.

The movie has great concert footage including Social Distortion performing "Mommy's Little Monster." This footage was shot a year before Social Distortion recorded their first album by the same name.  There is also a wonderful scene of Mike Ness writing the song "Another State of Mind" which was inspired by his experiences on the tour.

The film excels when it delves into the punk counterculture of the day and lets the punks have a voice of their own.  We learn about makeup and alienation, song writing and discrimination. City to city the punks relate similar stories.

A highlight of the film is when the tour finally makes it to Washington, D.C. The bus is on its last legs and the bands split up for food and shelter.  Some shack up with local band Minor Threat at their Dischord House.  This is a great introduction to singer Ian Mackaye and his straight edge philosophies which include no drinking, smoking, drugs or one night stands.  The touring bands don't follow it, but in the spirit of the movement respect it. One of my favorite scenes is watching Minor Threat perform after their microphones were taken away, and the audience assists by singing every word with Ian.  It was an extremely symbolic moment showing the unity that existed within these small pockets of punk rockers.

"Another State of Mind" documents the do-it-yourself aspect of the punk movement. It shows the performers and audiences at their best and at their worst. It captures a great moment in rock history.  Bravo to filmmakers Adam Small and Peter Stuart.


















Thanks to marlanembutol for another great YouTube post!