B-more hardcore

Double Dagger

What's surprising about Double Dagger is that Bruce Willen and Nolen Strals, who make up two-thirds of this punk trio, are also internationally-renowned designers. That's not to downplay Denny Bowen, who is the only o.g. Baltimoron and who we're sure is no slacker. Willen is originally from New Mexico and Strals from Georgia, but since coming here to go to MICA a few years back, they've made B-more their home.

Double Dagger has a bit of an identity crisis, arguing that the band's sound encompasses everything from "art punk" to "post-hardcore" (whatever the hell that means), but many local fans agree that their loud, aggressive vocals and drums put them somewhat squarely in a hardcore genre. This style is often showcased at warehouse shows, house shows, basement shows, galleries and bars. The remix of their song "Dancefloor" makes buying the band's 7-inch (due out in May '08) worth whatever they're asking for it. Given that Double Dagger has in the past played with/included Ben Valis (of Stars of The Dogon), Lee Ashlin (of The Fuses) and Sean McGuinness (of Pissed Jeans), they seem to have earned their street cred.

Lineup: Bruce Willen, bass and vocals; Nolen Strals, vocals; Denny Bowen, drums

Web site: http://www.posttypography.com/doubledagger/