As the Trump administration began in late 2016, Henry Rollins urged the punk community to rise against authoritarianism, echoing the spirit of Joe Strummer from The Clash. With Trump’s return to office, the anticipation grew for a punk response, especially from the Vermont-based band Rough Francis. Consisting of brothers Bobby Jr., Julian, and Urian Hackney, along with bassist Tyler Bolles, Rough Francis evolved from a tribute act to a formidable punk outfit since their 2008 formation. Their latest release, the Fall EP, showcases their most concentrated and intense work to date.

The EP opens with “Great to Be Alive” and culminates in the politically charged “Moving Backwards,” with lyrics reflecting social frustrations, including systemic racism and women’s rights. Bobby Jr. acknowledges that while the administration’s policies influence the music, feelings of oppression and marginalization as a Black man in America inform the band’s perspective. This EP resonates with their struggles, reminiscent of his experiences growing up in an unwelcoming environment.

After a lineup change in 2021, the band refocused their sound, taking inspiration from the hardcore punk scene of 1980s D.C. They aimed to create a tight, no-frills hardcore record, resulting in a raw and powerful sound that highlights their growth as musicians. To celebrate the EP’s release, they planned a show at Higher Ground, featuring diverse bands that embody political and social themes, creating a space where marginalized voices feel acknowledged.

Bobby emphasized that Rough Francis stands with the community, reflecting a dedication to the punk ethos of resistance and relevance in these tumultuous times. The Fall EP serves as both a declaration of defiance and a call for collective awareness and action in an increasingly polarized America.