I.D.K. Is Back: RED on NJ Hardcore, DIY Punk, and the Band’s Next Chapter

Chris Vaglio, host of That NJ Hardcore Show on Radio Garden State, sits down with Anthony "RED" Paladino from New Jersey hardcore punk band I.D.K. to talk about the band's return, the evolution of the NJ hardcore scene, and why the DIY spirit is still alive and well. Anthony shares the story behind I.D.K.'s comeback, from a surprise songwriting session that sparked new music to the band's latest track, "NARC 5," inspired by the prison-break storyline in *Star Wars: Andor*. He also discusses reworking older material, recording music at home, and adapting to today's digital world after coming up in the era of flyers, record distros, and legendary all-ages shows. The conversation takes a nostalgic trip through New Jersey's hardcore history, including Pipeline, Studio One, Maxwell's, Middlesex County College, basement shows, and the bands and venues that helped shape the scene. Anthony also talks about today's NJ hardcore community, the bands he's enjoying, and I.D.K.'s plans to release a new EP of original material in early 2027. Plus, stick around for rapid-fire questions about favorite shows, essential punk records, sharing a bill with Biohazard, and the ever-divisive New Jersey debate: Taylor ham or pork roll? Whether you grew up in the '90s hardcore scene or you're discovering New Jersey punk for the first time, this episode celebrates the music, memories, and DIY attitude that keep the scene moving forward. Follow I.D.K: Visit https://idkpunk.com/ for music, merch, videos, and updates on upcoming shows. Listen to Radio Garden State https://www.radiogardenstate.com/ 0:00 A Blast from the Past 2:22 Why We Came Back 3:46 The Spark of New Music 5:55 Recording in a Home Studio 7:56 Marketing Then vs. Now 19:07 The Story Behind Narc 5 23:19 Legendary Venues of the Past