Kid Dynamite explodes on screen

By Eric Jaen
Collegian Staff
March 1, 2006

After its formation in 1997 and two full-length albums on Jade Tree Records, Philadelphia’s own melodic hardcore outfit Kid Dynamite came to an abrupt end in 2000. The short-lived, but influential, band consisted of ex-Lifetime members Dr. Dan Yemin and Dave Wagenschutz, vocalist Jason Shevchuk and bassist Michael Cotterman. In 2003, Jade Tree released a compilation of rare and live tracks entitled Cheap Shots, Youth Anthems. As an added bonus, the album was packaged with a teaser DVD for a future full-length DVD documenting Kid Dynamite’s history. Last December, after more than two years of anticipation, it was announced that the documentary, properly titled Four Years In One Gulp, would be released on Feb. 21.

Four Years In One Gulp delivers a chronological history of Kid Dynamite, spanning from early practices and the search for a vocalist all the way up to the band’s premature demise and celebrated reunion shows. The documentary delves deep into the heart of the band with candid interviews, tour footage, photos and live performances from over the years, as well as narration from Shevchuk himself.

The majority of interviews came from the band members themselves, looking back at their formation, past tours and random stories generated during the group’s existence. Jade Tree co-owner, Darren Walters, discusses his initial tryout to fill the vacant vocal spot for Kid Dynamite, as well as the earlier years working as a roadie.

Former roadies and close friends, Dave Hause of The Loved Ones and Colin McGinniss of None More Black, share amusing tour stories and antics, adding a comical element to the DVD. The anecdotes range from tales of Hause’s bad habits to feather dusters to partially clothed wrestling on the van. Input from members of Grey Area, Kill Your Idols and None More Black, as well as Mark Beemer from the Syrentha J. Savio Endowment, is also featured on the documentary.

Spread throughout the feature is live footage collected throughout Kid Dynamite’s lifespan, which was a nice touch in helping to convey the growth of the band. Appropriately enough, the first video shown is a performance of “Pacifier” from the group’s very first show, which took place in Philadelphia. It is an interesting look back at their beginnings and fans will get to see a barefooted Yemin and a shy, younger-looking Shevchuk, who barely faced the crowd. There is also footage of Grey Area’s Ernie Parada filling in on bass for “Shiner” shortly after the departure of Steve Farrell.

The video for “Ph. Decontrol” was taken from Michael Cotterman’s first show with the band, in which Shevchuk gets down on one knee and romantically asks him to join Kid Dynamite prior to the set. Other performances include “News at 11,” “K05-0564,” “Never Met The Gooch,” “Gate 68,” “Showoff” and a cover of Black Flag’s “Rise Above.” Fans will enjoy the intense videos of “Heart A Tact,” “Living Daylights” and “Cheap Shot Youth Anthem” from Kid Dynamite’s reunion shows at the First Unitarian Church in 2003. The DVD also captures rare footage from a practice and a secret show prior to the official reunion.

Like any other DVD, Four Years In One Gulp also contains numerous bonus features as well. These include commentary from the band and roadies, photo galleries and more tour stories. As an added bonus, there is also a “secret” section that includes six videos from last summer’s reunion show at CBGB’s.

Four Years In One Gulp serves as a testament to the impact and contributions Kid Dynamite made to modern day hardcore. It offers fans a chance to relive the band’s passion and motivation for writing music that has created a legacy that will long be remembered.

Unfortunately, Kid Dynamite will not be playing at a town near you anytime soon. However, its members have gone on to form None More Black, Paint It Black, The Loved Ones and Armalite.

jaene1@lasalle.edu