In a previous post, I recalled some of my memories of the Louisville hardcore scene, which I was privileged to interact with from a distance through my connection to fellow adolescent punks from the bands Squirrel Bait & Maurice.

Like myself and many of my friends, Squirrel Bait’s David Grubbs had his own fanzine, HIT THE TRAIL. If you read it now, I think displays a shocking level of professional writing considering his age. I only managed to save these four issues.

Likewise Rat from Maurice had his own zine, BORN TO LOSE. It may be a bit much to absorb for those unfamiliar with him and the labyrinth of inside jokes and coded references. But to know him is to love him. I think there were nine issues in total but I only have these six. I even drew the cover illustration for issue #6 because I was just that cool.

I’ve put these scans up here for posterity and a glimpse into the past – for whatever that’s worth. I’m not sure they’re all that interesting to read if you weren’t part of this tiny microcosm of the American Hardcore underground, but I do think documenting any and all cultural expression has value. Hopefully a few others out there might agree.