Jan 2018 Splits Reissues Compilations EPs

SHORT LIST

REPRESSES

Holy Terror Total Terror Box Set Dissonance Productions

Holy Terror Terror and Submission Back On Black BOBV512LP

Out Now

Holy Terror was a Los Angeles band that savagely represented thrash. Their two first albums are legendary. Submission (1987) and Mind Wars (1988) are heralded in the cannon of US thrash, although mostly to the passionate fans that dare to dig beyond the common names. But, that hunt just became easier. Dissonance Productions presents Total Terror which will be available to North American headbangers on February 9^th, 2018. Holy Terror’s entire catalog is on 5 CDs. Terror And Submission (1987), Mind Wars (1988), El Revengo (2006), live album Live Terror-Live In Dendermonde, plus a rare DVD featuring multiple live shows and videos. MetalReview.com called the band, "faster than Slayer, heavier than Exodus, and more melodic than Megadeth." Terror Submission comes on vinyl in white and red splatter.

The Ocean Precambrian Pelagic Records
Late Feb 2018

The Ocean's Precambrian was released in November 2007. An impressive post-metal trek, a la Neurosis, Converge, Gojira, and ISIS, The Ocean presented a challenging album packed with tense riffs, looming heaviness and angular guitars played concise and sharp. The schizophrenic dynamics of this milestone mock any attempt at classification beyond ‘metal’. Strapped with vocal conviction over chunky bass lines, Precambrian relies on intellect as much as grit. Seven albums deep, tours with peers like Mastodon, BTBAM, Opeth, and Kylesa show The Ocrean’s growth and impact. The Ocean refer to themselves as a “collective” leaning on a constant rotation of contributors and artists.

Precambrian cherishes the metal tech wizardry as much as raw emotion and delivery of hardcore.  Precambrian itself embodies variety with guest appearances by Caleb Scofield (Cave In, Old Man Gloom), Nate Newton (Converge), Tomas Hallbom (Breach), Eric Kalsbeek (ex-Textures), and musicians from the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. This tenth anniversary edition of Precambrian (released on March 16th, 2018) relishes in a re-recording of ten-minute "Rhyacian"; played by the current lineup of guitarist Robin Staps, vocalist Loic Rossetti, drummer Paul Seidel and bassist Mattias Hägerstrand.

To celebrate, The Ocean will play the entire Precambrian with a headlining set at Doom Over Leipzig Festival on April 21st, 2018.

Each of the three packages is limited to 250

LP1: ultraclear w/black and orange smoke; LP2: beer w/ dark red smoke; LP3: transparent orange w/ black and dark red smoke.

LP1: silver and clear, A-Side / B-Side w/ black splatter; LP2: brass & beer, A-Side / B-Side w/ black and red splatter; LP3: gold and clear orange, A-Side / B-Side w/ black & red splatter

LP1: beer in ultraclear; LP2: transparent orange in ultraclear; LP3: transparent red in ultraclear

Unearth The Oncoming Storm Metal Blade
Jan 26, 2018

Metal Blade Records will re-issue The Oncoming Storm. This was the album that propelled Unearth into the forefront of the resurgence of American metal. As the band’s (and the scene’s) writing was growing beyond the formulaic (but still loved!) metalcore. This went beyond beatdown riffs to start a pit in a local venue. Metal was shedding its dirty word status and embracing the dynamic song structures, melodies, solos, and musicianship of the records the hardcore kids had back home. Massachusetts sure spat a few out of note. Unearth have always kept it humble and honest. On The Oncoming Storm fans can revisit the classic sound that saw them transition into the revered beast of later days.

VINYL: 180g black; orange-brown marbled, 300; "flame" splattered, 200; pumpkin orange marbled, 300; root beer marbled vinyl; 300; gold / black split, 700.

ALESTORM Captain Morgan`s Revenge – 10th Anniversary Edition Napalm Records
January 26, 2018

In 2008, Alestorm secured a large fan base with their mixing of storytelling and catchy metal. Sharp guitars and clean production and rowdy lyrics ensured waves of attention. Here, Captain Morgan`s Revenge is resurrected with “a fresh remix and remastering by original producer Lasse Lammert at his LSD studios plus rejuvenated artwork.” The Live At Summer Breeze bonus disc is included as well. Alestorm combine meaty riffs and raging rhythms with folktale aesthetics and symphonic metal grandiosity. Their tales are alluring when paired with punctuated production and mesmerizing guitar leads revisit the beginning of Alestorm!

Nebula

Let it Burn
Jan 26, 2018
400 on yellow transparent w/ multicolor splatter; also, black vinyl/ Digipak CD/ Digital

To The Center
Feb 16, 2018
400 on red transparent w/ multicolor splatter; also, black vinyl/ Digipak CD/ Digital

Dos EPs
Mar 02, 2018
400 on transparent w/ multicolor splatter; also, black vinyl/ Digipak CD/ Digital

In 1997, Nebula was spawned in Los Angeles when guitarist, Eddie Glass, and drummer, Ruben Romano, left Fu Manchu. Arguably, their final sound would not be much of a departure. But, in fact, audiences can hear the rise of the musicianship above just riffs. Romano and Glass revel in a freedom and exuberance that, whether roiling or simmering, allow each to mark their artistic territory. Capturing the essence of psych/stoner rock, this power trio (after recruiting bassist, Mark Abshire) encapsulate the volume and songwriting of Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, and Hendrix; but also cite The MC5, The Stooges (check the cool strut of “I Need Somebody” on To the Center) and bands like TAD, Skin Yard, and Mudhoney. The unfettered expressionism resort in variety, such as laying back for seven minutes (“Fly On” on Dos EPs) as well as the reserved Hammond on “Smokin Woman” (Dos EPs). Nebula lead you through expanding your third eye (“Fields of Psilocybin” on To the Center) or trudging heavy riffs on “Dragon Eye” and “Devil’s Liquid” (both scorchers on Let It Burn). Nebula’s three releases here utilize the silky leads and fuzzy bass and raucous drums of stoner rock; plus instruments like the sitar, piano, and organ. They expand the impact of their songs with the usual psychedelic filtered effects; soaking in flange, delay, panning, reverb and wah-wah to lead an audience’s mental and aural attention. Each reissue presents the full album Dos EPs being the split and on gatefold (or 6 panel digipak on CD) plus two unreleased tracks. This is a gorgeous way to celebrate twenty years of Nebula.

SPLITS

Windhand/Satans Satyrs split 12” Relapse Records
Feb 16, 2018

Richmond, VA present two of their macabre darlings. Windhand resurface after the glorious 2015 LP, Grief’s Infernal Flower. Clayton Burgess’ brainchild, Satan’s Satyrs, have not released anything since 2015 either. This 12” positions its balance on Satan’s Satyrs’ raw riffs and gusto with Windhand’s musicality and challenging of paradigms. The five tracks demand a 12” format. Windhand, always prolonging their heavy psych-doom, open with “Old Evil” at six minutes. Afterwards, the extensive, 14 minute (ain’t nothing new for them) “Three Sisters” is unleashed. Dorthia Cottrell’s vocals are pushed more forward than usual, above the swirling dense tones; drenched in emotionally draining hooks, hammered slowly. The heavy droning riffs are coupled with a haunting organ, riding slow waves of plodding drums.

If lulled by Windhand, Satan’s Satyrs side is a jolting slap. While still sinister and ominous, Satan’s Satyrs uses rambunctious rhythms and raucous ‘70s riffs. This is big volume contained under four minutes. The closer, “Ain’t That Lovin’ You, Baby”, is a stripped down rocker, echoing the opener “Alucard AD 2018”, with its glam-inspired strut, The mid jam, “Succubus”, is darker depending on atmosphere and a gritty tension.

VINYL: 2500 on black; 400, metallic gold; 300, baby pink with mustard; 300, bone white and purple splatter; 100, black and metallic gold merge with white and gold splatter.

Endorphins Lost / Osk split 7" Rotten To The Core Records/ Delusions Of Terror Records/ Agromosh Records/ You All Die Records/ New Age Pyrate Punks Records
Feb 1, 2018

Seattle’s Endorphins Lost captivated fans with their punishing grindcore just over a year ago, in November 2016. A caustic debut, Choose Your Way, on Six Weeks Records, portrayed Endorphins Lost’s version of old school crusty powerviolence. Done with bombastic, crisp production, this fevered punk is served again with four new tracks on this split 7” EP. Spanning from 12 to 90 seconds, Endorphins Lost kill tracks in the vein of Napalm Death, Spazz, Despise You, and Phobia. “Mercy for One” is a beast and its fits of rage into a slowed down thick groove breakdown is explosive. This is grind or powerviolence whatever to perfection. The sound and unrelenting power is one of the best of recent years.

Canadian grind/hardcore band, OSK, add three crushing tracks. The vocals are more abrasive. OSK fly through minute and a half long spurts with some contagious fervor. “Let’s Play A House Show” adds a slight groove to its crunch. All three songs are handled with a pummeling low end, emphasized by big punches from the bass drum. Tough as nails stuff here.

Fistula Splits with –(16)- + Come To Grief Patac Records
Out now

Fistula / Come To Grief split: Ooof. Come To Grief’s “Take Me in My Sleep” is six minutes of bludgeoning, low-tuned, sluggish despair. Jon Hebert’s raspy growls relay the song title’s desperation. This is not a frantic, sweaty desperation, but one profusely embedded in hopelessness and defeat. “Take Me in My Sleep” is a brutally miserable onslaught of loathsome attrition; chiseling at faith in restitution. Fistula follows CTG’s pace with their track, dragging in at six minutes as well. “There is no hope, there is no reason why – we should go on – we should not die” are the lyrics sung by frontman, Dan Harrington. Fistula distinguish their imprint by sectioning their duration. At two minutes, the riff changes slightly in tone and tempo but not pace. The growls still spew vitriol at “fakes and liars, hypocrites”. Then at 3:25, a distinct crisp groove enters the picture; with a –(16)- or even Helmet or Fudge Tunnel (Creep Diets) type stomp. Heavy as hell and twisted and misanthropic. Bad ass song of fetid fury.

150 copies of silver metallic cassette; 100, Clear Vinyl; 150, Transparent Red/Black Smoke Vinyl (PATAC exclusive); 250, Black Vinyl

-(16)- / Fistula split: Here –(16)- grabs a classic Killing Joke track from their debut LP and extracts the spirits but churns the track with its own imprint. –(16)- utilizes their sludge stamp but highlights the melodic guitar line for contrast against the driving, fuzzy bass “Complication” becomes darker and more sinister than its parent song. Fistula hone in on Devo’s punk pith for their cover of “Mongoloid” and nail it. “Mongoloid” fits Fistula’s oeuvre all too well. And they conjure the inner spite while eschewing any pop or electronic elements. Heavy reverb bass and down tuned riffs, strengthened by Harrington’s screams shape the ugliest beauty. “Mongoloid” becomes a tarnished, twisted track of rocking punk. 

100x Clear Vinyl; 150x Aqua Vinyl (PATAC exclusive); 250x Black Vinyl

“Fistula will unveil four more splits with Hemdale, Bloodsick, Fister, and one final band to be announced at a later date. Additionally, the band will issue a vinyl version of 2016’s Longing For Infection with a bonus etched seven-inch from the recording session.”

https://www.patacrecords.com/

Iron Reagan / Gatecreeper split LP Relapse Records
March 2 2018

Stomping into 2018, Relapse Records give the world two raging bands on one slab of wax. Iron Reagan’s scalding crossover and Gatecreeper’s punishing death metal have impressed fans globally. Relapse Records cemented classic status by having the two bands attend the same studio, the lauded GodCity with Kurt Ballou producing. Both bands are hitting the road with one off shows and fests immediately in January 2018. Relapse posted a track from each on YouTube: Iron Reagan’s two minute “Paper Shredder” is one of their five tracks on side A; Gatecreeper’s “War Has Begun” is one of their three which pummels eardrums for four minutes. Unique shirts with both bands logo and the artwork are available in black or white. Available on CD and vinyl: 100 on bone white and blood red merge with black splatter; 300 on bone white with blood red + black splatter; also, black vinyl. 

EPs

Flytraps Outro Records
Out Now

The Flytraps have been a quartet of all female, with a surfier, reverb sound. Now, with three ladies and a dude, the band is darker and faster and more straight-up garage punk. Whatever the formula and combination, this new 7” captures their snarling swagger with three punchy tracks. The L.A. quartet gives us “All Talk”; “He's Been Around” - a fast-paced, jangly lo-fi classic- and “Doin' It Right”. The Flytraps play dense garage punk rock with slithering female vocals and attitude that flaunts meandering bass, tight guitar licks, and rugged drums. 100 on red vinyl; rest on black.

Hell Bent Demo EP (Cassette) Self-release
Jan 12, 2018

Rhode Island’s Hell Bent spews three-ish minute tracks that combine searing elements of thrash, d-beat, crossover, and hardcore – if you need a label beyond “whoah”. Hell Bent boasts the menacing vocals of long time screamer, Aaron Badger, of Straight To Hell, Ulcer, and Paindriver. Other members have spent time in Dropdead and Neon Bitches. This demo was released last year on a very limited cassette version aside from digitally. Kicking off the New Year proper, they are repressing with a more expanded run on cassette.

Hell Bent execute furious, dark metal. Six tracks here exhibit speed-driven riffs with catchy time changes and powerful bass. The brash guitars and pounding drums push and push behind the experienced lungs of Badger. “Yeast” is a blistering opener. These are hardcore thrash songs with taut riffs and more dynamic parts in the songwriting; blazing tracks anchored by breakdowns for the pit. “Bastard Curse of Abraham” starts with a slower, trudging pace which gains momentum, then ebbs into the mid-tempo, building the anticipation. After 90 seconds the final minute, spazzes forward again with tight thrash riffs. Rest of the demo has infectious, energizing tracks that move into dark, down-tuned thrash. See these dudes live if you get the chance. Killer honest metal/hardcore with a voracious hunger. And the bite to match

Silver print on black cassette, deluxe edition comes with an embroidered patch and sticker.

Pissed Regardless Feed the Birds Creator Destructor Records *(Earsplit PR)
February 16th, 2018

San Diego-based thrash purveyors, Pissed Regardless, are releasing their dark, negative take on hardcore based crossover. Feed The Birds is thick and powerful. The condemning ferocity of the vocals match the brutal music. Incensed vocals and frenzied drum patterns switch on dimes to bring pulsating respits and breakdowns (bordering on grind at times). Heavy riffs accompany slick chops and relentless double bass drums bellowing disdain for a rotten world. Pissed Regardless call to influences like 90’s Earache and 80’s NYHC to currents like SSS, Ramming Speed, and This Is Hell. Again, heavy.

Gnaw Bone Scorched Earth Auris Apothecary
January 15^th, 2018

Indiana’s malevolent trio create treachery and devastation with a new four track EP. Their names and duties are recorded simply as B, Rhythm & Voice; R, Thunder & Voice; S, Noise & Voice; the mysterious aspect adding to the chaotic atmosphere of their blackened doom sludge. Enmity and sadism are instruments as much as any guitar. Four to six minutes each, tracks like “The End” (which begins the EP) revel in noise and sonic abstraction. Thick and pounding, the EP conjures spiteful snarling and disdainful cynicism. Limited edition vinyl is on ultra-heavy 180 gram vinyl, on crystal clear transparent vinyl, a double-sided insert, and a heavyweight 24pt jacket. Deluxe edition includes crushed bones pressed into the wax. *Includes digital download

COMPILATIONS

Americas Hardcore Vol 4 Triple B Records

Ships Jan 26, 2018

Continuing its beloved series, Triple B – who had a spectacular 2017 – deliver Volume 4. This installment visits us with upstarts, Brother (New Bedford, MA) – Negative Approach-style female fronted hardcore with new bassist, George Radford (She Rides, F.I., Dropdead); Krimewatch, old school, abrasive, punky hardcore with a mix of NYC and Japanese members and lyrics (3/4 female as well); Line Of Sight, DC SXE revival with mosh friendly two step rhythms and ferocious guitars; Glory, infectious Boston Youth Crew Hardcore; Pure Disgust, punishing DC thrash; the metallic frenzy of Primal Rite (LP coming on Revelation 2018); Free, new track after their stellar 2017 7” of eclectic influences; and big wigs like hardcore super group NYHC style, World Be Free and Baltimore’s titans, Trapped Under Ice. 

“Each band also designed and submitted their own pages for a 20-page, 12" x 12" insert booklet included with each record. LP includes digital download. These will ship in January. All copies come with a free immediate download.”

Aqua Blue, 700; Purple with White Swirl, 500; Red White Blue Tri-Stripe, 300.

Hell Bent Review

Hell Bent

Demo EP

Self Released

Dewar PR Haulix

Releasing on Jan 12, 2018

Review by hutch

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Hell Bent hail from Rhode Island. This band conquers by spewing three-ish minute tracks that combine searing elements of thrash, d-beat, crossover, and hardcore – if you need a label beyond “whoah”. Hell Bent boasts the menacing vocals of long time screamer, Aaron Badger, of Straight To Hell, Ulcer, and Paindriver. Other members have spent time in Dropdead and Neon Bitches. Their demo, which is this, was released last year on a very limited cassette version aside from digitally. Kicking off the new year proper, they are repressing with a more expanded run on cassette.

Hell Bent execute furious, dark metal. Six tracks here exhibiting speed-driven riffs with catchy time changes and powerful bass. The brash guitars and pounding drums push and push behind the experienced lungs of Badger. “Yeast” is a blistering opener. The one and a half minute scorcher is just fast; powerviolence/hardcore, again, if you need to slap on a genre tag. “Desert Death Lord” follows with all the same aspects except leaning toward more a thrashy jam, with taut riffs and more dynamic parts in the songwriting. Still blazing. “Canis Lupus Superion” also travels at blinding speed with a crossover nod in the riff; repeating and charging. Badger’s growls are beefy and penetrating. The breakdown ¾ way through gives a good chunky space to embellish in its two minutes. Made for the pit. 

“Bastard Curse of Abraham” starts with a slower trudging pace which gains momentum, then ebbs into the mid-tempo, building the anticipation. After 90 seconds the final minute, spazzes forward again with tight thrash riffs. The great titled “Condemned to Life” follows, with an infectious, energizing into that moves into dark, down-tuned thrash. Badgers commanding vocals are gnarly.  This is a catchy hardcore feeling track, damaging and angry. Pounding fast, the closer, “Scythian Horde” rides that trash gallop for the verse while other parts utilize a sharp charge forward of hardcore speedy riffs and double time drums.

This is a great demo I have been enjoying for over a year. Happy to see it get some wider distribution. The bands mixing of genre attributes are invigorating. I do look forward to a tighter production on a proper release to pull off the trashier parts (I sometimes want the drums to be more crisp, succinct). But this is raw and vicious. It’s a minor criticism that could be fixed on a non-demo release. See these dudes live if you get the chance. Killer honest metal/hardcore with a voracious hunger. And the bite to match.

Silver print on black cassette, deluxe edition comes with an embroidered patch and sticker.

Cold As Life Suffer EP review

Cold As Life 

“Suffer” b/w “For the Few” 7”

 Demons Run Amok

What do you say about this legendary group? Reflecting the attributes of Detroit since 1988, including all its detriments and its resilience. “Cold As Life is Detroit and Detroit Is Cold As Life”, Jimmy Gestapo (of Murphy’s Law) once said. Cold as Life embody Detroit and its inherent violence, stubbornness, incarceration; but most of all, survival and fortitude. Continuing after the death of original vocalist, Rawn Beauty, they moved on to make some killer records. Born to Land Hard defined metallic hardcore equal with Set It Off and Satisfaction is the Death of Desire. Born to Land Hard is an intimidating and revered LP; respected for it honesty, aggression and rage. Sole consistent member and drummer, Roy Bates now carries the famed hardcore band with hardcore flyer/album artist, Craig Holloway (and ex-Cold As Life from years ago), rejoining on bass; also adding guitarist Matt Martin and new vocalist, Jesse Adkins. This EP takes the digital tracks from last spring and commits them vinyl via Demons Run Amok.

Two killer new songs help anticipate an LP later this year. They ride that blend of Detroit / NYHC groove and brutality equally. Negative vibes, tough as Hell riffs and breakdowns; Detroit hardcore purity that is still punk at heart. Forever sanctioned (and self-imposed) to DIY with touring and pressing records, Cold As Life only know how to do it their own way. Here, “Suffer” begins with that feedback rising, like the mythical feel of Born to Land Hard; triggering sweaty anticipation. Adkins spews callous vocals over the ode to addiction. The chorus is classic Cold As Life writing, although recorded more straight forward than that Born to Land Hard metallic crunch sound. We still hear their defining thick hardcore pummeling and banging sound. “For the Few” draws us in again with that cold feedback and a thick strum, gauging the audience’s readiness for the impending melee. A bouncy mid-tempo song warns of backstabbers, traitors, and snakes. This anthem is a bonding rally cry for hardcore purists. Heavy and Detroit in each growl and chord, this is a pit inciter.

Vinyl is yellow (/100) (exclusive to RevHQ). Coretex carries Blue (/222) and Black (/512). Also, catch the white (/102), mint (/98) (only through Fastbreak!), and 20 test presses.

Fireburn Don’t Blame the Youth review

Fireburn 

Don’t Blame the Youth 

Closed Casket Activities

As if it wasn’t enough that Bloodclot’s Todd Youth (Agnostic Front, Murphy’s Law, Warzone, Danzig, etc) returned to a short, fast, loud ethos and catapulted John Joseph of the Cro-Mags back into writing original material and is crushing it on a national tour with Negative Approach, Todd Youth has a band called Fireburn. Not only is the striking art, by tattooer Tim Lehi, triggering some Bad Brains worship, the music is a direct ode to those originators of hardcore punk, once banned in DC. Tight, fast, tough, angry; Fireburn does it all here. There is even a reggae jam, the closing fourth track (after a 45 second ripper), “Jah Jah Children”, mixed by the legendary Jamaican dub master, The Scientist. Oh and Youth went and got Israel Joseph I, formerly of the Bad Brains. As if this wasn’t enough, the equation expands by getting Todd Jones (Nails, Terror, Carry On) and Nick Townsend (Knife Fight). The vocals, lyrics, and music are distilled Bad Brains of the ROIR era, fiercer and rougher. Only wish there was more material, especially at $13 for the vinyl.

The savage opener "Suspect" rips pleading against corruption and bigotry of our authoritarian figures. The songs speeds through, eviscerating with conviction and "Break It Down" is slightly slower (it's all relative) but pound like a track off of Rock For Light. Packing much oomph, this track employs some back up vocals to add punch. A short lead carries us as we approach the final chorus. At 2:45, the conclusion of the track leaves you gasping. "Let This Be" is a :45 spastic rant. The wailing switch to growling vocals s the HR we've missed since quickness. The band transitions easily into the reggae which closes the EP. 

Closed Casket Activities delivers 1,500 12” vinyl EPs; 250, Metallic Gold (CCA Exclusive); 250, Blue with Black Smoke (Band exclusive); 500, Red with Black Smoke; 500, Green with Black Smoke

New FREE EP review and preorder

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Ex Tenebris
Triple B


This is an explosive, dark hardcore record. The chaotic energy gathers influence from Fugazi's  feedback presence to Burn's bounce. But more correlative would be Outspoken, Mouthpiece, Battery, etc; a good mash of DC meets NYHC. "Equity Head" is the standout track for me, maybe even because it is the most straight ahead hardcore song. "Sisyphus" is the opener almost venturing into Cro-Mags territory - dark and menacing, fast and angry. "Out of Darkness" has a great bounce.

Being Pat Flynn, hell, 4/5 of Have Heart, there is certainly that vibe. But only the closer, "May I Be I", really capture that spread out sweeping vibe (which, to be honest i grew weary of). 3/4 of this EP move forward with urgency and spite. The vocals are furious and commanding without being self-righteous or pretentious. The mix is great, utitilizing the band's raw presence, nothing grandiose.Recommended.

LISTEN

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Xibalba Diablo Con Amor Adios Review

Xibalba
Diablo Con Amor Adios
Closed Casket Activities
Review by Hutch

Three songs fill up quick EP from the boys who devastated eardums and venue floors with Tierra Y Libertad in 2015. This EP dropped a month ago, so i am a touch late, but hey, it's killer. Xibalba played their tenth anniversary show on 2.26.17 and have no plans of slowing down. These SoCal titans match beatdown hardcore with death metal mastery perfectly. The slow churn of the riffs are amazing as they contort and twist the definition of a breakdown.

In one aspect, a review is a little silly, because these dudes have not changed their sound, per se. But they are taking that sound to the next level on Tierra Y Libertad and now, Diablo Con Amor Adios. Each release steps up their song writing since their multi-released debut. This EP, on Closed Casket, is available on a cool orange splatter vinyl 7" and other variations. The band knows precisely how to execute the hard ass sound they cherish.

The title comes from the culmination of the three song titles, "Diablo", "Con Amor", and "Adios". "Con Amor" blazes forward, fast hardcore or death metal, whatever you dub it, it slays. Gang vocals ensure maximum crowd participation. The chunky breakdown in the middle is barbaric. Thus track is 3 minutes; "Adios" is 5:23 and "Diablo" is shorter at 2:22. In this 11 minutes Xibalba fuck with time changes and delivery. There is enough variety to keep all parties interested. "Adios" has a cool swing in the mid-swing riff that adds soe flavor before it jumps into a gallop tempo. Never concerned with too much with tech (hence they hardcore feel over some DM band wanted to be worshiped for solos). Xibalba is all about heart, sweat, blood and spirit. This music is savage and should be bridging fans of all genres. Grimy and raw, evil and tough - this is a great release.

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Mindset Nothing Less Review

Mindset

Nothing Less

React! Records

Review by Hutch

Release Date: Jan 15, 2015

Hardcore can be criticized for being an over-saturated genre, especially with bands that stick to a simple formula. I will always and love that formula. So, even the average band will get me charged. But then there are the bands that hone that formula and play with skill on their instruments a searing conviction. Those bands rise above. Mindset is such a band. Sadly, they will be playing their final show in 2016, never to release music again.

Mindset is a current band not lost in the sweeping, dissonant, ethereal influence that is so common. They are heavy without being metal. This is straight hardcore, played exceptionally and with worthy production. This is music made to played live, with angry kids flying off the stage and sweat drenched bodies climbing over each other to vent their own strife. These five dudes, loyal to the Straight Edge, got together from the northeast, calling Maryland a central location, in 2008. Their main core of releases, three EP’s and an LP, have all been on React! Records. They have had limited tour and live releases on other labels. 

The sound is fast. The lyrics are spit quickly over unrelenting drums, riding the bass and toms as a snare pounds in 4/4 time. The guitars pause for open chords, which predictably lead into two-step parts and breakdowns. Again, though, these songs are played with such strength and rage that they defy any misnomer of cookie cutter or formulaic hardcore. There is not much to write without redundancy. That said, I have played these three tracks on repeat many times and not grown tired. This is one hell of a last statement for an amazing band.

Members of: Clear, Praise, Give, WARXGAMES, Peace

RIYL: Youth of Today, Chain of Strength, Wide Awake, Betrayed, In My Eyes, Clear, Get the Most, Down to Nothing, The First Step

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Mohicans self titled EP review

Mohicans

Mohicans

Creator Destructer Records

Release December 18 2015

Review by hutch

Mohicans fuse together obvious influences into an alchemy of unique music. Heavy, down-tuned metallic hardcore is what Mohicans play. Blatant doom and sludge adoration, but the prominent pounding drums propel a two-step hardcore punk pace. The urgency is immediate, eschewing the typical long duration of indulgent slow doom. Five tracks are below two and a half minutes. The vinyl 12 inch (available in 180 gram) fits all six tracks on one side. *(with the b-side silkscreened!).

The music is angry and raw, being spat and sweat out by this San Francisco trio. The groups is never afraid to delve into a rock sound or a searing solo. The Kyuss/Mastodon feel can take center stage, as in the album’s opener, “Eagle”, or the track, “Road”. But just as you adjust, the stool is kicked out from under you and the pummeling of frantic drums rushes forward. The production drenches the riffs in fuzz and feedback, possessing a stellar live feel. The drums are pushed up in the mix, clear and dominant. The vocals, which shred the larynx of vocalist Chris Palomarez, are pulled back which adds an omniscient, foreboding quality. His clenched fury is admirably delivered. The penultimate track, “Bixbi”, breaks down on a bouncing bass line and continues in the trios catchy waves of bobbing tones. The song then returns to thrashing.

Palmarez also recorded the drums I keep applauding. Live, the band is comprised of Justin Shearer on bass and David Sahlem on drums. Heavy thunder and destructive intensity are Mohicans’ core strengths.  This music is ugly. This music is adversarial. Melody sneaks in sporadically (but calculated). It is used sparingly to balance the down tuned dirge. Mohicans execute a sinister beauty here as precision noise and rash rants spewed over thick ass riffs.

RIYL: Wolvhammer, Spinebreaker, Baptists, Eyehategod, Black Flag, Generation Of Vipers, Black Cobra, Bison BC, Doomriders, Conan

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BANDCAMP

Vengeance Fools Follow Rules Review

Vengeance

Fools Follows Rules

Six Feet Under

Digital – September 19, 2015; Vinyl - October 9, 2015

Vengeance consists of members of Floorpunch, Underdog, Blacklisted, Reign Supreme and others. They took nine tracks into the study and recorded with legendary NYHC producer, Don Fury. Hard and heavy, Fans of Manipulate, Terror, and Backtrack should pay close attention.

Killer riffs and heavy stomps fill Vengeance’s resume. Nothing new in the genre, but done with sincere venom and ferocity. Marc Zeveny’s bass (Floorpunch, Endeavor, Anger Regiment) rattles with the resurrected sound of the Breakdown demo. Fury gave the entire spectrum a thick, full sound. Songs range from ten seconds, a minute, to three minutes. Vengeance fill time with spastic fits that move into breakdowns. Pepito (Blacklisted, Reign Supreme) spews pissed growls of warnings and hate drenched venting.

Vengeance strip it down to doing right. It’s all about execution. This pissed off hardcore, honed and unfettered. Typical song titles, “Pushed Too Many Times”, “Your Pride”, One Sided Friendship”, and “Brotherhood” show not a regression but a statement of getting back to the roots. After some of these band members’ resumes, some post-hardcore, expansive sounds, I am positive these dudes wanted to just put out ill fucking hardcore. Mission accomplished. 

SFU Records

Buy at Deathwish

Give a Listen

White Jazz Lies Split Review

White Jazz/Lies (Deathwish Inc) new ep

White Jazz is a new band from three quarters of Rise and Fall, giving nods to Minor Threat with Greg Ginn type lead attacks. In “Bliss”, White Jazz are cultivating aggression into sweeping waves of exhaustion and release. With “Gutter Rainbows”, Noise and chaos copulate while filter through pedals of MC5 + Rollins Band + Dicks. There are many influences. But this erects itself to be adored by a vast spectrum of fans. The riff is the pith, but many other factors pack a pretty deep bite. The throat of the vocalist is as impactful as any snare or guitar string. These are not songs as much as they are four dudes beating their instruments to vent the frenetic swarm in their heads. Lo-fi, DIY recording adds to the dangerous aesthetic. Listening to this is like listening to the burning of an altar.

Boasting from members of Skin Like Iron and The Hope Conspiracy, LIES play the hardcore of Infest, Haymaker, and Extortion until it bursts into rocky noise. This is dirty and gritty. Lies exhibit a bitter restraint while fusing Motorhead and Negative approach. “Deny Me”, the second track is a blitzkrieg of off timing drums and furious barking, powerviolence or what have you. It is noisey hardcore that is vomited upon the two inch tape until we get that breakdown. It is catchy and will have VFW hall floors absorbing blood. Lies have recorded what the internal dialogue of a mapless Mid-Westener navigating Boston’s downtown. 

No Resistance Novus Methodus Review

No Resistance
Nova Methodus
Rebellion Records

Houston’s Brickwall troops are back with new four song EP. Ever since they kicked the door in on my heart with Gentlemen Prefer Bombs on Koi records, they continued to grow and write the teeth clenching tracks that stay in your head all day. Their second album, Vade Retro Satana, was self-released. Soon after, they were snatched up by Dutch label, Rebellion Records. Rebellion, a bastion of new classics and reissued oldies, added No Resistance to their roster by snatching four tunes from both releases on a quick compilation called, V.I.T.R.I.O.L., on vinyl and digipack. Finally, we get four new tracks on Rebellion via a ten inch, at 45 rpm to maximize quality. 

The manner in which No Resistance writes exhibits true attention structure. These lads and lady approach these tracks exercising a true craft. This band knows how to incorporate a foundation of tough Brickwall backbeat with melodies and catchy hooks. When weaving their course rhythms with harmonies, our treat as listeners is the engaging, gripping delivery of rebellious punk. Nova Methodus embraces a clean production sound. This is a slightly different than feel from the first, but fits this sound better. GPBs garage aesthetic fit that taut, frantic sound. With more song writing and the embracing of glam and stadium stomp, the cleaner, crisp sound works better.

“Downtown” kicks it off and grabs me like the GPB did. The track is gritty and rough, while boasting an extremely infectious bounce. Displaying the band’s strengths, this track sums up the best elements of “punk” and “rock” in ‘punk rock’. In the last third of the track, a strut inducing piano comes in as the song pounds away.

“Let's Hear It” starts with a seductive, rumbly bass. This intro of churning anticipation is a quality which all classic skinhead albums should showcase. That bass stays up in the mix to push this track forward with tenacity. Again they're layers of shouts and gang choruses - adding female voices – enhance the somber tone while maintaining the catchiness. The key to a strong track is repeatability and No Resistance push songs the demand you playing it again and again. The guitar nod to Cock Sparrer is a way to break up the formulaic three chords. This tune ends with a strong riff that rides out.

“Alarming” gets us back to the tough guitars, again with a mod strut to it. Terrace stompers, Cockney Rejects, and rock and roll masters, Slaughter & The Dogs, come out in front as influences for this track. A piano brings in the Frankie Flame feel. Whether you are in the bleachers or in the dark corner of the pub, you’ll be pulling your mates close and hoisting a pint. No Resistance herald the undercurrent of rumbling drums here that add a punch. It contrasts the harmonies add secures the depth of their song writing. Can you picture moshing to The Jam?

“In The Morning” is either the darling or the misfit here. The song starts with a piano bounce, almost like a looped sample with the boom bap drums. The rhythm will push your neck. This is their most extreme divergence from their sound’s foundation. It's not an Oi song. But, hell, if you love your punk roots (like The Easybeats), then you will love this as a closer. No issue or gripes here.



No Resistance have written there best material to date. And that’s a huge claim considering I place GPB in the pantheon of punk past 1990. Chad’s drumming is consistently powerful and always versatile. He is constantly adding the necessary bounce and rigid backbone to their sound. Nikki and Nibu gather the arsenal of rhythms and staunch riffs to drive the sound. Scott’s vocals have such personality. A sardonic, dark overtone with a hesitant sneer is omnipresent. But, he can be sympathetic when reflective. His dynamic of  attitude paints the songs with humor and well, vitriol. Wrap it up in a fantastic presentation of illustrations by Ramon Girones, who is spreading through the Oi and punk world with his talent and expansive canvas, and you get a fine record by Rebellion. Grab it while you can.

RIYL: 45 Adapters, Templars, Dog Company, Roadside Bombs; Slade, Sweet, Slaughter & The Dogs, Cockney Rejects, The Boys, Cock Sparrer, The Who

Glory Days

Glory Days

Aggrobeat Records

7" EP, vinyl; ABEP019

Fresh off a split with Dead End Street (Italy) and the Oi! Against Racism LP Comp, Glory Days now have their own EP on Aggrobeat records. These kids from Poland deliver a rough (and welcome) version of Oi! They take the early English sound and mix with a good dose of the French sound. Their sound is loose and tough, with hard back beats and harsh guitars.

The song writing here loves the English style guitar intro of building the anticipation of the songs. When the songs kick in, they do so in a raucous manor. Good songwriting with catchiness (but not melodic)and sing along phrases keep feet tapping and fist pumping.

“The Line” feels like the most honed song. The beat is faster, the guitars are crisper. The crowd inducing chorus will get fans singing and beer spilling. The middle has a great breakdown with a slow but bracing solo.

B-side wins again was a Chuck D phrase; and I must apply it here. “Out of Sight” starts with a ripping beat. The energy is charged and direct. The middle employs another tense breakdown the builds to a gang chorus. The guitars are intentionally sparse but impactful. The track is tighter than the A side.

Glory Days is a stand out EP with great skinhead soundtracks. The songwriting shows effort and thought. There is room for some improvement that a strong producer and the time of a full length could certainly bring. That said, this is from a demo last year. An album worth of these quality of track would be called a classic. Classic sounds and tools ensure that the needle will drop on this at a drunken part or a bitter basement night solo. Pour a pint and sing along.

RIYL: Blitz, Veros, 4 Skins, Snix, Attack, The Crack, Eastern Youth, Combat 84

Track List: A1 Reality Check; A2 Glory Days; B1 The Line; B2 Out Of Sight

Pressing info: 300 copies: 150 oxblood red / 150 black wax

BUY: aggroshop

Nun Slaughter Review of New Split EPs

Nun-Slaughter Splits

Hells Headbangers

Perversor Split:

NunSlaughter return with incredible design and splatter vinyl and penetrating metal to match. “Impure Thoughts” open this seven inch, as NunSlaughter remind you why they are the kings of Devil Metal. Sleazy and sexual in a wretched manner, NunSlaughter unleash punishing raw death metal with a crust-thrash-blackened twist. The vocal are growled but audible. You can distinguish each smattering of delectable evil. Stellar production and a sinister energy level show this band at their peak with two exclusive tracks.

Perversor come with the same vibe. Lower vocals make it harder to understand than their split mates, but the demonic intent is what matters in delivery and Perversor crushes it. The songs are fast are Hell. This side adheres to more straight forward death metal from these South American purveyors of Satanic smut. And if you missed it, it is fast as Hell. Dirty riffs meander through an atomic cloud of malicious music. Both tracks are at 3:15 and feel elongated due to how fast they are. The drummer truly elevates the effort of these killer tracks.

Witchtrap Split:

Same great effort put into the layout and grey and black splatter wax here. The  vibrant red of the record sleeve is attention grabbing. NunSlaughter again return with ill tracks. They kick the speed up until the break into a swinging death-thrash riff that slays all suckers. As a tribute to their Colombian split mates, Witchtrap, NunSlaughter have titled the respective tracks “La Ofrenda” and “Altar De La Muerta”. 

While Witchtrap raised the ante with “Sex Commander” and “The Devil’s on the Loose”. These tracks are not as low tuned or dark as NunSlaughter. They are still metal as fuck, though. A tougher version of NWOBHM or Kreator, Destruction, Sodom would be appropriate. The chorus of “I’m a Sex Commander” certainly has me naked in my apartment with a towel for a cape. This is empowerment.

Afucking Plus for package and design. Support this and buy some vinyl

RIYL: Possessed, Nekrofilth, Necroholocaust, AntiCimex, Nuclear Assault, Toxic Holocaust

Dirty Nil Cinnamon Review

The Dirty Nil

Cinnamon b/w Guided By Vices

Fat Wreck Chords

Review by hutch

Admittedly, I had never heard of The Dirty Nil. That said, I am not a fan of the FWC ilk. The Dirty Nil however evade the poppiness or uber polished production of most of Fat releases. The Dirty Nil, and their damned handsome youth, has been a band since each members’ high school years. That was only in 2006. This is their fifth EP since 2011.

The Dirty Nil boast a captivating sound, while maintaining a raucous edge that conveys an authentic adoration of rock and roll. The first track, “Cinnamon” reminds me of what I thought Everclear should sound like (“Santa Monica” is a classic, but beyond the sentimentality of “Father of Mine”, I never liked any other song by them. Yet when reviewed, they got called “punk”.) “Cinnamon” probably extracts the aspect of Weezer that punk dudes like, but which I never got. It’s dirty and wrought with feedback, like a happy Nirvana. The catchy riff and vocals are undeniable even for a curmudgeon like me. The factor which impresses me is straight forward production. No one over thought this and it works perfectly.

“Guided by Vices” is relayed with a broader approach; a little grander in scope. And hey, this track sits at 2:30, as opposed to side A’s 2 minute trek. Again, solemn feel being exorcised through coarse, garage rock delivery melds well. The combination of attitude and execution won’t kill the party, but will prompt you to grab another drink. There are some swirling indie spasms of say an early Pissed Jeans; but they wander as light as a Jawbox or Jawbreaker. They stay steady in the rock and roll course.

Poking a short digital distance on Vimeo, The Dirty Nil performs a faster (1:39), blistering rager named after their hero, “Guy Piccioto”. As with this video, other videos (including “Cinnamon”) continually have the band live in a small room among three or four friends. Eschewing the pretension and garish arrogance which making a video could conjure, these young dudes earn respect points as well. A few listens, and I want to play it more. Volume, speed, and grit push this band. Now we need a full length.

The cover is cool, a minimalist’s Dead Kennedy scrapbook pop art feel; the American family superimposed over a spewing, erupting volcano. FWC delivers this catchy thing on colored vinyl. The pics of the band look like what I expect from California kids (who are from Hamilton, Ontario actually) who are happy and full of promise. It’s infuriating.

RIYL: Filthy Nights, The Sun, Born Liars, The Jons, The Lillingtons, Leatherface, Avail