Underdog, 'Matchless' -- New Album

Posted on Apr 14th 2010 6:00PM by Jon Wiederhorn Comments

In the late '80s, Underdog were a staple of the New York hardcore scene. The band was spearheaded by vocalist Richie Birkenhead, who played guitar in Youth of Today between 1986 and 1987, and Russ 'Wheeler' Iglay, who did time in Murphy's Law. And while Underog only lasted four years and went through numerous lineup changes, they made their mark with tight, punchy and melodic songs and lots of cool skateboard imagery.

On May 18, the band's discography will be reissued on a CD titled 'Matchless.' "This release has been a long time coming," said Iglay. "We're glad that it's going to see the light of day this spring on Bridge Nine, and we can't wait to get out there and play more shows this year."

The album features the 1988 demo 'Over the Edge,' which scored Underdog a deal with Caroline Records, and the full album 'The Vanishing Point,' produced by the legendary Don Fury (Agnostic Front, Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits).

Back in 1989, Underdog supported 'The Vanishing Point' with a full U.S. tour, but the members weren't getting along and after they arrived back home they canceled their European tour and decided to go on hiatus. The break seemed permanent until 1998, when the band did a reunion tour. Look for shows this summer.