Here's Tim Krysko with our International Spotlight:

Following up on last week's entry of excellent East Asian hardcore from Thirteen Steps in Korea, this week I want to jump across the strait to Japan for one of my favorite hardcore bands, FC Five. These guys recently came across the Pacific to record their second album at the Blasting Room studio in Colorado. The album will be their debut on Roadrunner Records Japan, and the title appears to be "Come to the End". I can't tell if their website lists a release date yet. Their latest album is called "Memories", released by 1138 in Japan. They also have an EP on Godschild Music which is distributed internationally by Interpunk. These guys are top notch hardcore.

FC Five - Monsters (MP3) Punk International recently received a design overhaul, so check it out. They're currently looking for news writers, so if you've got an ear for the international punk scene give then contact Tim for more info. Recent Spotlights: Thirteen Steps (Korea), Bankrupt (Hungary).