In a time when punk and hardcore bands seem to have forgotten about what really matters, the Louisville, KY band By The Grace Of God have chosen to do things differently. They remind people, with their tested and approved sound, that empowerment is the key to survival. Musically, the band crosses all lines between melodic and downright aggressive punk/hardcore. Their first EP, "For the Love of Indie Rock" (VR37) was incredibly well-received. As RIP Magazine put it, "If you're into the hard stuff, yet like a little melody in the mix, check them out." With songs that ranged from political and emotional to the importance of fun in the punk scene, they conveyed an overwhelming positivity and a push for unity that the punk/hardcore scene hasn't been addressing for a long time. By The Grace Of God have taken average hardcore songs and transformed them into vehicles of political motivation, self-empowerment and emotional release. By The Grace Of God portray straightedge and other issues in a positive way that will help dissolve any negative connotations or preconceived notions. They give hope to the people who believe hardcore is about change and feeling good about yourself. As Rob says, "You should live your life by examples..." (from Stop Smiling #5)