Down by Law

The Profile

Down by Law is an American punk rock band formed in 1989 by Dave Smalley (formerly of Dag Nasty and ALL). Known for melodic hardcore, the band released several 1990s albums on Epitaph Records, including Blue, Punkrockacademyfightsong, and All Scratched Up!.

Led by Dave Smalley (also of Dag Nasty). The review covers the early-’90s three-track single Yellow Rat Bastard, featuring “Punky Brewster” and a cover of Mission of Burma’s “Revolver.” The title track is highlighted for high-energy, early-hardcore spirit with a noise-hued passage. The single was distributed in Italy by Helter Skelter Records; the reviewer saw the band at Bloom (Mezzago) in May 1993. The band is associated with the Epitaph-style melodic hardcore sound.

A single review digs into the three-track Yellow Rat Bastard era, framing Dave Smalley as a key figure of American melodic hardcore. The title track is praised for early-’80s hardcore energy and a noise-tinged midsection recalling Helmet. The other cuts include the opener “Punky Brewster” and a cover of Mission of Burma’s “Revolver.” Live memories (Bloom, Mezzago, May ’93) and Italian distribution (Helter Skelter Records) add context.