Sad news to report as Rob “Bobeats” Vitale has died, apparently from COVID-19, according to posts from friends. Rob was best known as the co-founder and lead singer of NYHC band Black Train Jack, and later Nine Lives. Condolences and tributes have been pouring in from all over the Hardcore and greater Punk world. Born from the members of another classic band, Token Entry, Black Train Jack had two major albums on Roadrunner Records in the early 1990s with 1993’s No Heroes and 1994’s You’re Not Alone. BTJ was innovative and inspired many by blending old-school NYHC sounds with a brilliant melodic sensibility (vocals, vocal harmonies, and guitars) that had a huge influence on the 90s pop-punk that followed. We send our sympathies out to Rob’s family, many friends, and countless fans at this time. Continue reading →