These were the key ingredients that defined Insted and would earn them an important spot in the hardcore punk scene. In the spring of 1989 they flew to New York to do some dates with Vision and strengthen their relationship with the East Coast. That summer they released the "We’ll Make the Difference" 7" on Nemesis records and were back in the van for another full U.S assault.
That summer they shared the stage with bands like Gorilla Biscuits, Bold, Uniform Choice, Slapshot and Reason to Believe. Upon returning home, they were offered a record deal from Epitaph Records in which they accepted. Insted’s following had steadily grown and they were now headlining 1000 seat venues and drawing massive crowds. During the recording of "What We Believe" they made plans to expand their borders and tour Europe. But at the end of 1990, shortly after "What We Believe" was released, America went to war with the Middle East. Due to the circumstances they were unable to ship equipment over seas and decided to stay in their homeland. In the spring of 1991 they did another national tour. They were now sharing the stage with bands like Judge, Snapcase, and the Cro-mags. The hardcore sound of the early 80’s that they were so familiar with was changing. It was turning into a hard metal edge sound and the attitude of the scene reflected it. Bands that they looked up to like Uniform Choice and Youth of Today were broken up and their old time favorites Minor Threat and 7 Seconds were long gone.
When they returned from tour they began working on new material but felt out of place. The band had built its reputation on respect and integrity. In July of 1991 they decided to do a final show and bow out gracefully. Spanky’s Cafe in Riverside was one of their favorite spots and a perfect host for their humble grand finale. They made sure to include on the bill a few of the promising up and coming local bands.
Over the years Insted traveled throughout the country making friends and building a legacy that ingrained them into hardcore history. To this day the friendships they built are still in tact and their legacy lives on.
Tell Me
Insted Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
The song "Tell Me" by Insted portrays the struggle of a band trying to make it in the music industry while facing constant criticism and discouragement from external sources. The lyrics "tears me apart every time we play" and "you keep putting us down" highlight the emotional toll this negativity can have on a group's morale. The line "taking a stand I feel like an outcast" reflects the band's decision to pursue their dreams despite the challenges and opposition they face, and their determination to make it last.
The chorus, which repeatedly asks "Tell me - is it - too late?" could be interpreted as a plea to their critics or to the industry as a whole to give them a chance and recognize their talents. The repeated line "to rock together we're standing strong" shows the band's commitment to each other and their music, despite the obstacles they face.
Overall, "Tell Me" is a powerful anthem for anyone who has faced rejection or criticism while pursuing their dreams. It highlights the importance of perseverance, resilience, and self-belief in the face of adversity.
Line by Line Meaning
Tears me apart every time we play.
Every time we perform together, the negative energy that you bring tears me apart emotionally.
You keep putting us down.
You constantly criticize and belittle us, causing us to doubt our abilities and potential.
It gets harder everyday.
Each passing day becomes more difficult to persevere against the negativity and lack of support.
At times it seems as if there is nothing left.
The constant negativity can make it feel like there is no hope or motivation left to continue on this path.
Until things change we're not going to rest.
We will continue to strive for success and positivity, refusing to give up until the negative attitudes and actions towards us change.
Tell me - is it - too late.
Asking if there is still a chance for positive change and support, or if it is too late to turn things around and create a better situation.
Taking a stand I feel like an outcast.
Making the decision to stand up against the negativity and demand respect and support makes me feel like a social outcast in this environment.
Always going to care. I'm going to make it last.
Despite the obstacles and challenges, the passion and dedication to the music will always remain and be sustained.
Am I right or are you wrong?
Questioning if the lack of support and criticism towards the music and the group is justified, or if it is simply a personal opinion or bias.
To rock together we're standing strong.
Despite the hardships, the group stands strong and united in their love for the music and determination to succeed.
Tell me - is it - too late.
Reiterating the question of whether it is too late for positive change and support, or if there is still hope for a better future.
Contributed by Brooklyn P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.