The Promise proudly declares itself to be a Straight Edge band. How do you (as a band or individually) define Straight Edge? What does Straight Edge mean to you and what has kept you unfazed over the years in the face of change and adversity? Also what's your opinion on longtime Straight Edge bands who have changed their course of action and no longer believe in it? Are there any bands you know of, for that matter, who are still keeping it real?
Buske: For all of us, Straight Edge is a lifetime commitment we have made with ourselves to live free from substance abuse. Everyone, aside from Derrick, has had their share of abuse or usage and we have seen that this (being Straight Edge) is the most productive and the healthiest path to take. I've watched people rot away and I've lost friends to suicide due to their drug usage. I have close friends that are alcoholics and I've watched, first hand, these people go from rags to somewhat ruin and it's fucking horrible. Those instances, the ones that hit home the most, are the ones that keep me clean and clinging to Straight Edge. Times change, people change, that's all good. Straight Edge isn't meant for everybody and if you fail, you fail. I have no problems with people who "sell out", I have best friends who are notorious for their edge that are no longer Straight Edge. When it becomes a problem is when people fall off and the shit talking begins. People make mistakes, it's human nature, but to bad mouth one of the best decisions anyone could make to better themselves and to down play those of us who still care, that's where the problem begins. As for bands, there's actually quite a few that are keeping it real. Our War, Impact, Champion, Downpour, First Blood to name just a few. Anderson: Bands are no different than kids selling out. That’s what a band is made of, kids. The only problem is that there is documented proof of their Straight Edge “phase”. Naturally, everyone’s first instinct is to belittle their past. It’s disheartening to watch that happen. I’m all for a person doing what’s right and true to them, that’s what hardcore is about. However, they have to realize life does not start and stop at their leisure. You may have moved on but many of us haven’t. We’re still here and we’re staying.
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