The Great Lie
Written by: Cait Elizabeth - May 2020
Edited by: Travis Ryan
Introductions
The heart of punk rock mentality is questioning preexisting beliefs, and The Great Lie commits to that attitude in a big bad way. The band is comprised of Gerry Giacalone (guitar), John LaFata (drums), Scott Martin (bass), Kerry Merkle (vocals), and Mike Scarola (guitar/vocals), all veterans of the legendary hardcore era of the Long Island music scene. Silly rabbit, punk ain’t just for kids!
April 2020 welcomed the release of The Great Lie’s third EP Defying Extinction, a brutal six-track rager. From the heartbeat-hijacking bassline in “A Game of Horseshoes” to the thumping, rhythmic, sexy drone of “The New Reich”, this album keeps you engaged all the way through the track listing. In true punk form, The Great Lie doesn’t shy away from telling you how they really feel; and they are done with your bullshit.
The group has been creating music under the name The Great Lie since 2014, and the process usually starts with instrumentals. “We usually jam on a few riffs and slowly arrange it as we add parts. Lyrics usually come last.” You can find their sophomore EP All Roads Lead to Where You Stand alongside its newborn sibling Defying Extinction on all major streaming platforms. You’ll have to do some local scouring to find their first EP, however, as it is out of print and offline. Punk rock treasure hunt: let us know if you find a copy!
Shows & Tours
Since playing their opening show at the beloved Mr. Beery’s in Bethpage, The Great Lie has held down stages across New York with acts like Pro-Pain, D.I, and Murphy’s Law. “We have been fortunate enough to open for many bands that we hold in high regard.” Don’t get too used to having a face, because The Great Lie will be rocking it off when Long Island live music starts up again.
“Always be true to yourself.”