The Mark of Cain

by Andy KellmanBrothers John and Kim Scott formed the hard-hitting Mark of Cain in Adelaide, Australia, in 1984. With John on guitar and Kim on bass, the band's first lineup was filled out by vocalist Rod Archer and drummer Roger Crisp. Within the next year, Archer left and John took over on vocals. Crisp left to be replaced by John Rickert, who in turn left the band after their debut 1988 single. Campbell Robinson eventually took over the stool. Signed to Dominator, Battlesick was released in 1989. Unclaimed Prize followed the next year. Robinson left and was replaced by Aaron Hewson. Unclaimed was recorded with Steve Albini in 1991, but wasn't released until 1993. Their fourth album, Viet Vet, was released in 1994. The band struck up a relationship with fan Henry Rollins, who issued Battlesick in the U.S. through his 2.13.61 label and Thirsty Ear. Rollins produced 1995's Ill at Ease (RooArt), which gained the band its highest level of popularity in Australia. Extensive touring and numerous festival dates upped their profile substantially. Hewson left during the year; Campbell Robinson returned to take his place. Rock & Roll, a collection of remixes from the likes of the Young Gods and Godflesh, was released by the end of 1996. Each of the band's albums were remastered and reissued in late 1998 through BMG Australia affiliate RA. Also packaged as a box set entitled The Complete Recordings 88-98, the reissues were promoted with an Australian tour. Robinson left a drumming vacancy for the second time, replaced temporarily by Stuart Baguley. After some time off, the Mark of Cain reappeared with their heaviest sound yet in 2001 with the Retaliate single on RA. Yet another drummer made his debut on the recording, former Helmet member John Stanier.