Various Artists - Volcom - The Only Constant Is Change

The small print reads: “The Volcom ideology has always incorporated a major philosophy of the times. During the Company’s inception, the spirit was one of an enlightened state to support young creative thinking not willing to accept the suppression of the established ways. A movement the Company backed as ‘youth against establishment’”. “Change was in the air”. That change is noted energetically in Volcom Entertainment’s first commercial compilation in five-plus years. “The Only Constant Is Change” is a 46 track double disc extravaganza featuring 36 unreleased, out of print, rare and B-side tracks—over two heavier-than-hell hours, kiddies—from bands who carved the paths of youth rebellion and up-and-comers who continue to create new ones in the independent music world. This compilation drowns convention with torrential and quick strikes of full-out force from punk to hip-hop. It is musical appreciation to what makes indie, well, indie: freedom through self-expression, through Volcom’s artists, films, music, athletes, and their awesome clothing line (started by Richard Woolcott. Volcom Entertainment was created with Woolcott and theLINE’s Ryan Immegart). What the established mind has tried to develop into a fashion statement, this compilation proves that it’s not fashionable to be phony, and has continued to push the lifestyle, the movement, and the mindset that keeps true indie alive. Volcom Entertainment was for nonconformity before it was the “cool” thing to do. There are tracks from the masters: Pennywise (“My Own Country”), Death by Stereo (“Favorite Thing”), Guttermouth (“New Wave Hair Cut”), theLINE (“Buckshot”) and budding artists such as Piebald (“There And Back Again”), Brazil (“Paradise and Iron”), Maxeen (“Take The Weight Off”), and A Faith Called Chaos (“Forgive Nothing”). There are also notable tracks from Quitter, Single Frame, and MYG’. Mind you, hip-hop is typically not my thing, but how can one deny a track that is formulated to make one’s body move? It can’t be done! “The Only Constant Is Change” is one of the most excellent compilations I’ve heard all year, and has so many unreleased and rare tracks that you’ll be saturating your pants in sheer delight. Go to Volcom Entertainment’s website, where you’ll find a massive supply of photos and footage from their Warped Tour take-over, Volcom band info, info on how to submit your band’s demo, and other goodies—like contests and free stickers!! [www.volcomentertainment.com]