ANTI FLAG

US Politic-punks Anti Flag have probably won many friends worldwide with their high-profile opposition to President Bush - a stance which has resulted in them becoming regulars in US magazine Newsweek. The Pittsburg four-piece were formed in 1988 by Justin Sane and Pat Thetic (see what he did there?), the only permanent members in an ever-evolving lineup. After a series of album releases on their own independent label, the band emerged from the dingy environs of the punk nightclubs to wider, brighter acclaim with the release of the album Underground Network in 2001. As well as musical staying power, the band have practised what they preach, becoming involved in urging young people to vote in the US. Their dual concerns of anti-nazism and US foreign policy continue to inform their music, most recently on last month's new album, For Blood And Empire. Finally it seems, Anti Flag's message is being heard beyond the faithful hardcore..