A gritty punk quintet from Richmond, VA, Avail comprises vocalist Tim Barry, guitarist Joe Banks, bassist Gwomper, drummer Erik Larson, and "cheerleader" Beau Beau. Their distinct sound is based in the sincerity and aggression of punk, the power of classic rock, and an admiration of the nearby Washington, D.C., hardcore scene of the late '80s. The group originally released their debut, Satiate, on their own Catheter Assembly Records in 1992, but the album was re-released two years later by Lookout! Records, upon signing to the label. Their follow-up fan favorite, Dixie, also appeared in 1994, and Avail was quickly found to be developing a fiercely loyal fan base through the raw energy of their live show. While touring in support of 1996's 4AM Friday, they recorded the LP Live at the Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco, which was issued in early 1998, the same time as their next full-length, Over the James. Signing to Fat Wreck, the guys released a six-song EP, 100 Times, in August 1999 that contained one new song and re-recordings of five old favorites. The band's recording scheduled continued unabated into the new millennium, with the release of their fifth full-length studio album, One Wrench, in June 2000. Avail continued to bring their brand of Southern-tinged melodic hardcore around the country, and issued Front Porch Stories in November 2002. Jade Tree then re-released Over the James, 4AM Friday, and Dixie in April 2006 with bonus tracks, new artwork, and new pictures. A supporting tour followed with openers the Draft and Pink Razors. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
Avail is a punk band from Richmond, Virginia. Originally from Northern Virginia, the band formed in 1987, its members including Joe Banks, Doug Crosby, Brian Stewart and Mikey Warstler. The only original remaining member, guitar player Joe Banks, teamed up with rival band LDK's (Learning Disabled Kids) Tim Barry. They moved to Richmond in 1990, and soon, after numerous line up changes, put together a solid lineup to release their first album in 1992. They play punk music, with heartfelt lyrics and melodic breakdowns. Many of their lyrics are about Richmond.
Avail is on 'permanent standby' as per Tim Barry's interview on Dope Sick Radio #40. Tim mentions in the interview "let's just say it's a thing of the past"
Avail self-released their first LP, Satiate on Catheter-Assembly Records. It was later re-released by Lookout! Records. They released several studio releases on Lookout! and then went on to Fat Wreck Chords for One Wrench and Front Porch Stories. Most recently, they have signed on with Jade Tree Records who has recently re-released the Avail albums Dixie, 4am Friday, and Over the James.
Legacy in Richmond
Tim Barry is currently writing and performing solo music. Joe Banks, along with former members Erik Larson and Chuck McCauley, formed The Ghost Run in 2009. Joe Banks, Chuck McCauley and Erik Larson have also teamed up in the band Freeman. Avail is still something of a legend in the punk and hardcore scene in Richmond. Tattoos, graffiti, and sidewalk impressions bearing the "dixie" image are quite common. A sidewalk impression of the image is easily found at the corner of Brunswick St. and Floyd Ave. in the Fan.
