Video of the Week: Ann Beretta (Richmond, VA)

One of the most influential bands in my personal history of discovering punk was Ann Beretta. Built from the ashes of legendary posthardcore outfit Inquisition, this Richmond, VA band played a brand of pop/street punk that wasn't the most innovative, but would prove to be highly influential to bands like Hot Water Music, the Loved Ones and Strike Anywhere. What was memorable were the heartfelt songs, with infectious choruses, and hooks galore.

Though not officially broken-up; a long hiatus, numerous line-up changes, record label problems and frontman Rob Huddleston's solo project, Foundation, have all contributed to the group being essentially done. This footage comes from 2003, in Richmond, VA, of course. You can check it out at