Barstow were an indie rock/post-hardcore band from Waterbury Connecticut. During their 5+ year existence at the beginning of the decade that is about to come to a close, Barstow's importance on the local DIY culture of Connecticut was, at best, overlooked. Even more unfortunate, their collected recordings have gone largely forgotten in the brief number of years following their break-up for a variety of reasons, an all-too often consequence of Connecticut's small, intimate, but all too forgetful local punk rock culture.
Barstow consisted of Ryan (guitar), Matt (guitar), Mike (bass) and Dan (drums). While all four members shared vocal duties, Ryan and Matt were the primary vocalists. Their songwriting, in part, showcased the loud-quiet-loud indie sound, with a great deal of dynamism and variety, thanks in part to the collective interests and ability the group overall. Their discography also showcased a great deal of creative growth over the course of a very short period of time. From the more straightforward indie-pop approach of their demo EP, to the 3+minute crescendo that is 'Valley Walls' on their split 7" with A Day's Refrain (Redscroll Records), to the fluidity and intricacy of their final 3-song EP, such development should not go unnoticed or unappreciated. If anything, it only makes one wonder what the group might have issued had they continued on.
Beyond music, Barstow was immensely vital to the continuation of the DIY punk rock scene in central Connecticut during the course of their existence. They helped book dozens of shows at Brass City Records and the nearby Waterbury VFW. Beyond the actual setting up of shows, they lent out their PA on a moment's notice and were simply friendly enough to help bridge the stylistic gaps that are often seen within a young, developing scene. These gaps can keep various parties from ever interacting, and it takes something special, although rarely ever intended, to create that bridge. Barstow provided it, although might never have known it.
As this entry would suggest, my opinion of this band is far from objective. Admitting that, I feel that far too often we are only able to understand and appreciate the actions of others retrospectively. And while many have recently looked at punk rock in a historical sense as something of great significance, I contend that such historical perspective and respect, especially at the local level, is a bit harder to come by (especially recent history). With that in mind, I wanted to make sure this entry was made, if only so people who weren't there can appreciate the contributions of those who were.
The file below includes their aforementioned pair of EPs and the track from their split 7". It also includes 2 unreleased tracks ('Milhouse' and 'How To Be Good At Nothing') as well as a live version of 'I Blame Myself...So Do I' from their final show, which took place at Brass City Records in Waterbury CT. My apologies if anything is missing. If you have recordings of the band not included in this file, please feel free to post them or get in touch. Enjoy.
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