Strike Anywhere

Strike Anywhere formed in Richmond, Virginia in 1999 with Thomas Barnett on vocals, Matt Smith on guitar, Garth Petrie on bass, and Eric Kane on drums. They came up through the DIY punk scene, playing shows and putting out records on their own terms rather than waiting for industry approval. Their debut album 'Change Is a Sound' arrived in 2000, followed by 'Exit English' in 2003 and 'Infrared' in 2006.

Their songs like 'Infrared' and 'I'm Your Opposite Number' carried political lyrics about social justice and activism, delivered with the urgency of hardcore punk. The band's sound had that raw, fast energy that worked well in small venues and basements, where their message connected directly with listeners.

Over time, the lineup shifted some, particularly at the drum position. They kept playing shows and putting out records, maintaining that same commitment to speaking out through music without softening their approach for broader appeal.