Avail

by Jason Ankeny
A gritty punk quintet from Richmond, VA, Avail comprises vocalist Tim Barry, guitarist Joe Banks, bassist Gwomper, drummer Erik Larson, and cheerleader Beau Beau. Their distinct sound is based in the sincerity and aggression of punk, the power of classic rock, and an admiration of the nearby Washington, D.C., hardcore scene of the late 80s. The group originally released their debut, Satiate, on their own Catheter Assembly Records in 1992, but the album was re-released two years later by Lookout! Records, upon signing to the label. Their follow-up fan favorite, Dixie, also appeared in 1994, and Avail was quickly found to be developing a fiercely loyal fan base through the raw energy of their live show. While touring in support of 1996s 4AM Friday, they recorded the LP Live at the Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco, which was issued in early 1998, the same time as their next full-length, Over the James. Signing to Fat Wreck, the guys released a six-song EP, 100 Times, in August 1999 that contained one new song and re-recordings of five old favorites. The bands recording scheduled continued unabated into the new millennium, with the release of their fifth full-length studio album, One Wrench, in June 2000. Avail continued to bring their brand of Southern-tinged melodic hardcore around the country, and issued Front Porch Stories in November 2002. Jade Tree then re-released Over the James, 4AM Friday, and Dixie in April 2006 with bonus tracks, new artwork, and new pictures. A supporting tour followed with openers the Draft and Pink Razors.