Identity Parade
Discover the captivating journey of Kristofer, a visionary in the punk hardcore scene, as he reflects on the release of 'Identity Parade' and its enduring impact. 📸🎨 #DIY #PunkHardcore
In the vibrant city of Linköping, Sweden, the underground punk hardcore scene thrived, with the iconic venue Skylten serving as its beating heart. From local acts to Swedish bands spanning from Malmö to Umeå, and even international heavyweights like Sick of It All, Snapcase, and Earth Crisis, the stage of Skylten witnessed it all. Amidst the chaos and camaraderie, Kristofer stood with his camera, amidst the mosh pits and anthems, capturing every moment from the front row. Little did he know, this would mark the genesis of a remarkable journey that would redefine his life.
The birth of “Identity Parade”
"Now, with over 30 years of experience in photography and design, let's rewind 23 years to the time of the release of ‘Identity Parade.’ At that time, seven years didn’t seem like a significant duration. The punk hardcore scene, particularly the D.I.Y. attitude, epitomized the belief that ‘anything is possible’ and that conviction alone was enough.
Inspired by friends who were part of bands and record labels, Kristofer felt compelled to channel his creativity into the realm of art. He lent his graphic design skills to bands, designing demo cassettes, albums, and clothing. His photography found its way into fanzines, magazines, posters, and record covers.
“Looking back, seven years felt like a lifetime of experience. Back then, the idea of creating a book didn't seem far-fetched. Today, it's incredible to reflect on its realization," recalls Kristofer. "It was my way of giving back to the scene, creating something enduring to remind us of a formative time in our lives. Personally, it was a journey of self-discovery, acquiring skills that remain invaluable to me to this day.”
‘Identity Parade’ wasn't a solo endeavor. It was a crowdfunded co-release with labels spanning Europe and the US, including Oljud, Busted Head Records, 7 Ply Records, Combat Rock Industry, Havoc, Close-Up Magazine, Reflections, Armed With Anger Records, La Calavera Discos, Carcrash Records, Paraply, Function, and Bridge Records.
“Crowdsourcing wasn't even a term back then, yet ‘Identity Parade’ exemplified the power of global collaboration. I remain forever grateful to all those who contributed, coming together from all corners of the world to make a dream a reality.”
Henrik Lindqvist (Outlast, Dead End and now Alarm! to mention a few) wrote this in the book:
“Around the first time I saw Kristofer at a hardcore show he was taking pictures. As the years passed by he got really close with the band that I played for at the time, contributing to our records, by showing our passion to the world. Dedicated to the aesthetics of hardcore punk … Within these pages you can see the desperation in the eyes of the band members. You can feel their energy and their dedication …
… To recreate the past is a meaningless attempt. To find new ways of existing is vital. Therefore I will not ”linger in the past” (Outlast), I will use this documentation in the only way I see meaningful. Remembering what we felt and why and how that affects Kristofer’s and my life today. Inspiring to be as much as we can be, to never give in to convenience. The path less travelled is probably the most interesting.
This is a product of stubbornness and never giving your dreams up. Kristofer never did, and I hope you wont either.”
20+ years later, this still resonates. Do what we can with what we have, take the difficult path, strive forward. Never give up on your dreams, you never know where it will take you.
"I had no idea what it took to release a book—from conception to printing and distribution. However, in the D.I.Y. scene, learning by doing was par for the course. Moreover, given the limited adoption of the internet at the time, selling books primarily occurred at shows or through mail-order," Kristofer reminisces.
In the book, Kristofer wrote:
"My perspective on punk hardcore has always been and hopefully will continue to be positive. Remaining on a constant quest for change and unafraid to showcase my true self is my identity parade."
Reflecting on these words today, their resonance remains unchanged. Kristofer's unwavering curiosity, willingness to challenge himself, and refusal to be confined by past conventions continue to define his journey.
In the annals of punk hardcore history, “Identity Parade” stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and community. Through its pages, Kristofer immortalized a moment in time when music was more than just sound—it was a rallying cry for change, a beacon of hope in a world of uncertainty. As we look back on its legacy, let us remember that the spirit of punk hardcore lives on, forever etched in the collective memory of those who dared to dream.