Abusements: Raw, Authentic Punk That Defies Convention Abusements
Reviewed by Sam Lowry

Abusements delivers raw, authentic punk rock that stands out for its emotional depth, relentless energy, and fearless honesty, setting them apart in the genre with their unique blend of diverse influences and lived experiences.

Abusements, a fiery punk rock band from Montgomery, Alabama, is back with their third LP, Grievance Beerwater Reprisal. Since forming in 2017, the band, led by lyricist and frontman DJ Fake Name (Todd Souvignier), has grown from a three-piece act into a powerful five-member ensemble. The current lineup, solidified in 2022, features Dominique Bradley, Sr. on drums and production, Lyra Lyricat on bass and vocals, and guitarists Wil Evans and Jay Hensley.

Known for their high-energy performances and DJ Fake Name’s hyperactive stage presence, Abusements has built a reputation for delivering intense live shows. Their concerts are marked by seamless transitions between songs, creating a whirlwind of sound that leaves audiences breathless.

The band’s members bring a unique mix of backgrounds and influences, with DJ Fake Name noting that they span four different decades in age. This diversity is reflected in their music, which blends heavy rock with dynamic rhythms and soulful lyrics, giving them a distinct sound that stands out in the punk scene.

In 2022, Abusements faced a tough challenge when a smear campaign, orchestrated by local antagonists, impacted their personal and professional lives. This experience forced the band to shift their focus to out-of-state performances and dedicate themselves to producing a new album.

Grievance Beerwater Reprisal is the band’s direct response to these hardships. Recorded in their underground bunker, the album captures raw and emotional performances, with drummer Dominique Bradley, Sr. taking charge of the engineering and production. This DIY approach allowed the band to create their most authentic and soulful record yet.

The album delves into themes of resilience and perseverance, exploring the failings of famous figures like Evel Knievel, Howard Hughes, and G. Gordon Lindy. DJ Fake Name describes the album as a shift from snark to sincerity, capturing the band’s journey from anger to determination. With Grievance Beerwater Reprisal, Abusements has crafted a record that not only sounds fantastic but also resonates deeply with listeners, marking a significant milestone in their career. Abusements captures the raw, unfiltered spirit of punk rock with an authenticity that cuts through the noise. Their music is a powerful blend of emotion and energy, standing out for its depth and fearless honesty.

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