The Warmers, like many bands in The District, only existed for a brief time, just over three years, but they released an amazing album in 1995 that essentially heralded the "new class" in th Washington DC area. Alec MacKaye was no stranger to the scene. On top of the obvious connection [his brother, duh], MacKaye was a veteran of three bands: Ignition, the Untouchables and the absolutely amazing Faith, while Juan Luis Carrera operated Slowdime Records and drummer Amy Farina previously played in Mr. Candyeater and Moats Definitely, as well as playing with Lois Maffeo in her band.
While adhering to the standard post hardcore template, the band created songs that were wide open and minimalist. It was a step in the right direction for the scene, and it was an exciting time as a host of new bands were playing out, bringing even more kids out to shows. Growing up in suburban PA pre-internet, I heard about a lot of these bands long after the album was out or sometimes in the pages of Punk Planet, but with The Warmers' eponymous debut, Alternative Press [yes, it used be sort of cool] gave the album a great write up, and I was lucky enough to be able to find it that weekend. After the album's release, the band played out and ended up recording a few more tracks that finally came out in 2004, as the Wanted: More EP.
Amy Farina is currently playing with Ian MacKaye in The Evens. As for the rest of the group, I haven't the slightest idea.
Download: "Mad at the Man" [mp3] /// "RSVP/In Cadence" [mp3] /// Buy here
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