Street Gloves 2024 Demo cassette

In a dystopian future, the human/machine connection has evolved into a pervasive yet oppressive network, where individuals are constantly connected to a vast digital framework that monitors thoughts. This integration blurs the lines between human agency and algorithmic control, and is a theme that has been prevalent throughout many of the works that inspired the inception of D-beat. STREET GLOVES push the limits of the D-beat genre with their unique brand of E-beat (as in electronic D-beat) and incorporate the feeling of a cyberpunk-esque version of DISCHARGE. Several bands have incorporated digital aspects to punk, like A.I.D.S., L.O.T.I.O.N., or SCUMPUTER, but STREET GLOVES are a full-on D-beat band (with the occasional skank). The tropes and themes of D-beat are there, especially in the lyrics, but the blatantly digital drums just provide an uncanny yet abrasive feeling. The whole premise makes a lot of sense and it is very well-put-together, and sounds especially  refreshing. If I had listened to this release earlier, it would have gone straight to my tops of 2024.

• Reviewer João Seixas
• Label self-released
• Issue MRR #500 • January 2025