5 best SSD songs to pay tribute to late guitarist and co-founder Al Barile

Al Barile, guitarist and co-founder of Boston hardcore band SSD (Society System Decontrol), passed away on April 7, 2025, at the age of 63. A key person in the straight-edge crusade; Barile's work with SSD in the initial 1980s helped shape the sound and ethos of hardcore punk.

SSD's music, described by raw energy and messages promoting sobriety and unity, left a persistent impact on the genre. In memory of Al Barile's influences, here are five SSD songs that reflect his influence and the band's heritage.

Disclaimer: The article reflects the author’s views.

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1. Boiling Point (1982)

Boiling Point from SSD's debut album, The Kids Will Have Their Say, condenses the band's early hardcore sound. The track's rapid tempo and intense vocals mirror the urgency and frustration expressed in the lyrics.

Al Barile's guitar work drives the song, providing a foundation for its aggressive tone. This song demonstrates the band's commitment to addressing personal and societal pressures through music.

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2. Get It Away (1983)

The title track of the 1983 EP Get It Away marks a key moment in SSD's evolution. With the addition of guitarist Francois Levesque, the band's sound became more encrusted.

Get It Away reinforces the straight-edge philosophy, supporting a lifestyle free from substance use. Al Barile's guitar riffs balance the song's message, highlighting clarity and control.

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3. Glue (1982)

Also featured on The Kids Will Have Their Say, Glue addresses themes of conformity and the desire to break free from societal outlooks. The song's concise structure and direct lyrics are characteristic of early hardcore punk. Al Barile's guitar lines add intensity, highlighting the song's call for individuality and resistance to pressure.

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4. How We Rock (1984)

The title track from SSD's 1984 album How We Rock showcases the band's shift towards a heavier, more metal-influenced sound. This transition reflects Al Barile's willingness to experiment and push the limits of hardcore punk. The song features more complex guitar work, indicating the band's musical evolution while maintaining their essence.

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5. Break It Up (1985)

From their final album, Break It Up! This track represents SSD's full embrace of a metal-infused style. The song's structure and instrumentation highlight Al Barile's adaptability as a guitarist.

Despite the genre shift, the band's commitment to addressing themes of personal struggle and resilience remains evident. Break It Up serves as a testament to SSD's dynamic approach to music.

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Al Barile's influence on SSD and the broader hardcore punk scene is undeniable. Through these tracks, listeners can appreciate the band's evolution and the messages they conveyed. Barile's legacy endures in the music he helped create, continuing to inspire those who value authenticity and conviction in their art.

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