trust records documentary

See the first episode of new Trust Records documentary series

Joe Nelson (Ignite, the Killing Flame, Triggerman) and Matt Pincus (Judge, SONGS Music Publishing) started Trust Records with the goal of helping preserve punk and hardcore’s past, giving classic records the home and attention they deserve. Over the past couple of years, Trust has reissued records by Circle Jerks, B’Last, 7Seconds, Aggression, DFL, and Youth Brigade, with more to come (other BYO classics included). The work they put into each release is amazing, packaging and accompanying books included. 

Read more: 20 greatest punk-rock drummers of all time

Now the indie label has partnered with Six Stair Films to make a six-part short-form documentary series. We’re premiering the first of those, titled “Preservation,” which explores Trust Records’ mission, hitting on everything from publishing to restoration efforts. The doc features interviews with Joe Nelson, Keith Morris (Circle Jerks, Black Flag, OFF!), Kevin Seconds (7Seconds), artist Shepard Fairey, punk archivist Bryan Ray Turcotte, famed hardcore photographer Glen E. Friedman, Decline of Western Civilization director Penelope Spheeris, and analog tape restoration expert Dan Johnson. Watch the episode below, and stay tuned for upcoming episodes that they tell us “will explore different subgenres within the punk and hardcore scene.”

Director: Coan Buddy Nichols
Producers: Six Stair / Trust
Editors: Coan Buddy Nichols/ Rick Charnoski
Camera: Daniel Coltado/ Coan Buddy Nichols/ Justice Ott
Motion Graphics: Clayton Graul

And in the label's own words:

The goal at Trust Records is to keep the music we love available in the best formats possible for generations to come. We’re kicking off an ongoing series today which will be deep dives into various subjects and we figured a good place to start is with the efforts and thinking behind preserving important music, art and culture.

Trust Records was formed to give classic punk and hardcore records the home that they deserve. The great records of this genre sprung from DIY roots to influence millions of disaffected kids around the world. As we now move into the “streaming age” it’s crucial to keep their spirit and legacy alive. Our focus is to ensure this music is available for all future generations while also getting the story right.

Pick up Trust's 40th anniversary reissue of Circle Jerks' Group Sex in the AP Shop.