Earlier this week I posted an article about how punk music supports the community and can provide new opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Punk - the music and the scene - has always been about community and helping each other survive a brutal reality. Well, hopefully that truth extends beyond cd sales and tours because right now Karl Alvarez needs help. The 43-year old bassist built his career playing thumping riffs for the legendary punk band Descendents as well as the lesser-known but also excellent band ALL.

I doubt I need to refresh the memory of any punk fan over the age of 29, but to be safe here we go:

Descendents - “When I Get Old”:

Well, even punk heroes get old, and unfortunately Alvarez is no exception. He suffered a minor heart attack last Saturday which resulted in a three-day hospital stay. He’s home now, safe and sound, and hopefully will recover fully and get back on the strings. Meanwhile, his hospital bill is looming, and his friends are kind. Those good friends have set up a my$pace benefit site to raise money and organize benefit concerts. Honestly, I can’t think of a better use for my$pace.

Not only can you donate directly to Alvarez’s paypal account, but you can also leave well-wishing messages and connect with others to organize events. The page’s byline reads:
Raising money to cover medical expenses because punk rock doesn’t have a benefit plan.

So true.
So be a good punk citizen and help a comrade.

http://www.myspace.com/karlalvarezbenefit

Pages about Descendents ~ Karl Alvarez ~ Milo ~ Milo Goes To College ~ punk