Reviews

For review and radio play consideration:

Please send vinyl (preferred), CD, or cassette releases to MRR, PO Box 3852, Oakland, CA 94609, USA. Maximum Rocknroll wants to review everything that comes out in the world of underground punk rock, hardcore, garage, post-punk, thrash, etc.—no major labels or labels exclusively distributed by major-owned distributors, no reviews of test pressings or promo CDs without final artwork. Please include contact information and let us know where your band is from!

Catspidar Catspidar CD

Noisy, loud, and chaotic! Twenty “songs,” or bursts of noisy grinding hardcore punk, solely focused on venting about how bad random things are. Song titles like “Knocked Loose is Bad” or “TikTok is Bad” instantly makes one think of ANAL CUNT and Seth Putnam’s hatred towards the world. Sonically, it is tamer than the aforementioned band, and in a way comes close to some of the more punky PIG DESTROYER songs. CATSPIDAR only wants one thing: to tell you that everything sucks!

Cindy7 / Jimsobbins split cassette

The two bands featured on this split appear to be intermingled, as writing credits for all of the songs are attributed to “Adam + Lucy.” JIMSOBBINS kick things off with a synth-driven garage punk sound that hews closely to the egg-tastic racket being produced by Aussie heroes GEE TEE. Their four tracks are fun, frenetic, and well-executed. CINDY7 is not as easy to pin down. Freewheeling and unmoored, they do a little genre hopping, flittering from a loose and blown-out BLATZ sorta thing to something approaching crusty D-beat, and back to the egg-punk thing. In theory, I don’t mind the dabbling, but the end result feels half-baked rather than hard-boiled.

Detroit 442 / Superdevil split LP

Solid split here from these Eastern Michiganders. DETROIT 442 sounds like an Americanized version of the DAMNED if they adopted the vocal styling of LEFTOVER CRACK and the HOLD STEADY. Yeah, I know. That’s a wild combo, but the singer has a lot of range and bounces between brutal screaming, melodic mumbling, and Fred Schneider-esque sprechgesang. Great guitar leads laden throughout glue everything else together. Old school, dystopian punk’n’roll. “I’m Not Crazy I’m On Drugs” may as well be our national anthem at this point. On the flipside, the vocalist from SUPERDEVIL has an impressively deep growl of a voice. It’s like if Tony the Tiger decided he wanted to take up a pack-a-day habit, and start singing in a band that took all of the best qualities from DEAD KENNEDYS and ANTISEEN and molded them into one big rock’n’roll monster. There’s a pretty great STIFF LITTLE FINGERS cover here as well. Both bands sound different enough that this makes for a pretty satisfying split LP.

The Exile The Real People EP reissue

Exposing a new generation to obscure Scottish first-wavers the EXILE’s second and final 7” from 1978, this reissue from the awesome Italian archivists at Breakout Records allows you to claim another forgotten fragment of punk history. The title track is tuff stuff, compounding a ’70s hard rock charge with a rhythm section that vaguely recalls RAMONES’ “Commando.” “Tomorrow Today” is standard UK pop punk of the era led by a slinky guitar line. Finally, we land on “Disaster Movie,” a snappy, STOOGES-lite affair that’s the most solid cut here by my estimation. The band’s debut EP has also been granted a new pressing, but if you had to grab only one of them, The Real People is by far the punker of the two records and the one I’d recommend.

Eyes and Flys All the Tigers in Texas / Seabird 7″

The two-song single can be the ultimate medium to tell potential listeners exactly what your band is about. There’s no world-building, no narratives attempting to be woven, just a single and its flip. The perfect format. And EYES AND FLYS definitely seem to feel similarly, as this single follows the given mold, but it’s only in theory. The A-side is the rocker, the B-side the more exploratory side. As soon as the needle drops, you get what this band is about. Nailed it. The A-side “All the Tigers in Texas” does indeed hit the ground running with fast guitars, dual shouted lyrics, and energy that jumps out of your speakers, but for me, it seems to run out of breath before getting to any destination. The song feels like it’s going to culminate into something awesome, given how strong it starts. Instead, it just slowly comes unwound in a wash of guitars, like they went in without an ending and it just stayed that way. In theory, this EYES AND FLYS single is how the medium is done. In practice, I’m still not sure what this band is going for, even after multiple listens.

Freat I.H.T.U. cassette

Politically-charged Midwest synth punk that is virtually unlistenable. These folks have their hearts in the right place, and sing (vocalize?) about bodily autonomy, the pervasiveness of QAnon-fueled conspiracy theories, and the growing hate group Moms for Liberty, but it is done with such inept musicianship that it runs the risk of losing all meaning. The tracks feature simple drum programming and synth washes with growly, bluesy, out-of-time spoken vocals that sound like they are being read from a notebook. This is backed by rudimentary guitar phrases and occasional gang vocals (I’m assuming from whoever else was in the bedroom at the time of recording) that yell out the song titles. I give FREAT maximum DIY spirit points and applaud their punk effort at creating an outlet for their frustrations. But, sonically, it’s remarkably bad.

Goatzilla Alien Nation LP

Judging by the band name and album art I totally expected this to be doom metal, and while there’s hints of that peppered throughout, this is a pure rock’n’roll record. In fact, this gives off darkened glam vibes. GOATZILLA sounds like a modern day TWISTED SISTER with a singer that cops a sinister Dee Snider-meets-Lemmy energy. Really fantastic production here as well, everything is loud and heavy but discernible and crisp. With huge guitars and soaring solos, this teeters way more on the metal side of things than punk. So if that ain’t what you’re into, this might not be your bag, but for those of us who long for a dystopian Sunset Strip, this is well worth a listen.

Golpe Subisci. Conformati. Rassegnati EP

I put this on and I was greeted with a sonic explosion that I wasn’t exactly prepared for, even though I have heard this before. This is absolutely crushing modern D-beat of the highest order, fitting in nicely alongside bands like VAASKA, RAT CAGE, SCARECROW, DESTRUCT, and GUERRA FINAL. Originally released on a cassette in 2019. If you like the above bands at all, you should run out and get this today, or mail order it right now!

Hyper Gal After Image CD

Following up their 2021 debut, HYPER GAL returns with a further excursion towards outer-bounds sonic experimentation. The Osaka artist duo blasts their way through nine cuts of maximalist drum-and-synth recitations with an unwonted intensity. Atop the throbbing, swirling, noise-laden foundation, the ultra-clean ingenious vocals transmit repeated signals. There are times when the songs will tempt you into thinking they are coming unglued, only to snap back into a locked mechanical groove. It’s an unsettling listening experience that has to be heard to be believed.

The Ichi-Bons Get Away / Heart Attack 7″

Great, old school rock’n’roll played how it’s meant to be. The first side is just really fun and has a lot of top-notch soloing that’s very LINK WRAY-inspired. The second side is a radical instrumental with some spirited shouting in the background to give the song that extra kick in the ass. Not really much to say other than get your hands on this single if you can. This is the shit I’d rather be hearing in stores across America instead of whatever the sick bastards that queue the music in there play.

Kalte Hand S​ä​ureblocker 12″

Catchy, moody post-punk band from Germany. As someone who doesn’t speak or understand German, I loved that you don’t have to know exactly what the singer is saying to understand the music; it speaks for itself. KALTE HAND isn’t afraid to go heavy with the drums and rhythm section as a whole, as well as beginning and ending the album with anxious guitar lines that sound like they’re trying to escape something, all of which creates a darker and intriguing vibe to their music.

¡Miau! ¡Miau! LP

Histrionic project from Madrid presenting an electro-charged LP of synth punkers—crazy, explosively-tweaked songs with even crazier vocals that seem dissonant and with a crybaby attitude, merging beautifully with the tightest electronic drums given outstanding space in the mix, and deep synth and keyboard work. Onion-layered, they verse on different existentialist themes but also execute Spanish folk-related songs, and I personally very much enjoyed the social-critique-focused tracks like “Pepita Pantalonera” and “La Cruel Inocentada.” Gracefully executed egg-punk with a distinct identity and solid grip of its own, a merit not always found in many synth punk projects. Eager to hear more.

Moving Targets In the Dust LP

Somewhere in Boston, a divorced dad is excitedly knocking back beers over the release of this LP and jamming to his favorite local band, MOVING TARGETS. However, this is not me. I may not be the intended audience for this release, perhaps aimed at those who enjoy “melodic hardcore,” as the band puts it. They have a very loose definition of what hardcore is, with this album being composed of casual, almost pop-sounding rock—unfortunately, this is synonymous with being “background noise” in my terms. The album is unprovocative and placating, yet it certainly isn’t bad. It’s almost so cohesive and generally pleasing that there’s nothing particularly notable or interesting. This LP is surely better heard live for the full head-banging effect that is missing in the recording. The drums and tambourine in “Sacrifice” are fun. The singing-like riffs of the guitar near the end of “Decadent Side” and “End of The Line” suggest that the band does know how to take things up a level. If you’re into that sort of feel-good sunshine punk, then by all means take a trip In the Dust.

Nafra A Mort LP

Catalunyan hardcore punks NAFRA’s new album A Mort is a wild ride that’s giving me all the right vibes. These Spanish punks have really nailed their sound with this fourth release, blending the raw energy of hardcore with sharp vocals that bite the hand that feeds and leave it bleeding. The tracks are fast-paced and unapologetic, making it impossible not to nod your head or mosh along, and it’s clear as day that they’ve poured their heart into this release. Extra points for the Catalan DISCHARGE cover “No Escoltis, No Miris, No Parlis” (“Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing”). If you’re on the lookout for something fierce, A Mort is worth the spin!

Negative Gears Moraliser LP

Over the summer, NEGATIVE GEARS from Sydney released this great full-length Moraliser,  packed with bopping punk energy but also a wide range of sonic exploration. “Attention to Detail,” probably my favorite song on the album, reminds me of the ASTRONAUTS merging with KILLING JOKE, only to be a lilting instrumental towards its end. “Lifestyle Damages,” the song that follows, sounds like it could be a BUZZCOCKS or DAMNED song. I guess what I’m saying is it’s just great quality punk rock from the very start until the very end.

Rearranged Face Far Green Arcade LP

Fourth release from Los Angeles’ REARRANGED FACE. Eleven short and well-textured songs lie within, exuding the cult-like banddom of DEVO: spiky synth and guitar galore, while drab backing vocals dutifully agree with some wild David Byrne-esque moments in the lead vocals. The guitar riffs seem to repeat themselves from song to song—or lead you to believe so—achieving a mesmeric soundscape, propelled by clumpy drums and a steady bass. The rhythms are just as snake-y as they are sharp, the songs just as odd (where’d that bird sound come from?) as they are fun. And in keeping with House of Tomothy’s true-to-analog studio, this was created without the use of a computer. This is good medicine right now.

S.H.I.T. For a Better World 12″

Straight from Canada, a violent and precise telescope to the shit system nowadays, delivering chainsaw mayhem guitars with tasty whips of riffage, solid, faster-cadence drums, and a great mixing job balanced between vocals, electronic effects, and chaotic, ball-of-fiery-sound hardcore punk. Disrupting and touching nerves on socio-political and military issues but also introspecting on themes of the self, vomiting a solid message with great execution on each track. Mental album, solid in the top ten of the year for sure. Suggested: “Corporate Funded Killing Technology” and “KTF.”

Stiv Bators It’s Cold Outside / The Last Year 7″ reissue

Munster reissue of this stone-cold classic from STIV BATORS. Originally released by Bomp! in 1979, “It’s Cold Outside” is a cover of the garage classic by the CHOIR, but BATORS’ version takes the song to new heights. If you’re not already familiar, and late ’70s Bomp! didn’t already give it away, this is apex power poppy punk music. The B-side, while not a classic on the level with the A-side, is a lovely, contemplative tune that continues the sounds of its respective flip. I’m not exactly sure if this record was in dire need of a reissue, as copies aren’t exactly tough to come by, but Munster always does a nice job with their releases so I’m not here to question. If you don’t have an original copy, now you have no excuse not to snag a copy and fix your oversight.

Strangelight Material Conditions LP

The Oakland-based four-piece STRANGELIGHT features a lineup of veterans from bands like ALL YOU CAN EAT, KOWLOON WALLED CITY, TRANSISTOR TRANSISTOR, TRAP THEM, SWINGIN’ UTTERS, the NEW TRUST, and WESTERN ADDICTION, among others. Their latest effort Material Conditions is a tightly composed collection of nine songs and an intro track clocking in at twenty-three minutes, blending post-punk, post-hardcore, and indie rock influences. The mid-tempo songs channel ’90s DC vibes and sprinkle in some atmospheric interludes reminiscent of bands like MOGWAI or EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY. The recording quality is good and highlights the strong musicianship, but honestly? It just wasn’t my thing. Check out “Two Masters” if your interest is piqued.

Thine Retail Simps Strike Gold, Strike Back, Strike Out LP

On this third full-length album, the RETAIL SIMPS remain an anomaly, serving up an uninhibited procession of jams that impedes succinct description. Christened with a new iteration of their ever-evolving name (which Discogs has mercifully compiled as a single artist), this record is decidedly less traditionally cohesive than the previous two LPs with its mix of zappers, stewers, and instrumental breaks. Here you’ll find elements of old-fashioned boogie-woogie, barked poetry invoking the spirit of HOMOSTUPIDS, the herk and jerk of an off-kilter sonic threshold not unlike that of TYVEK, and other unlikely ingredients, all bookended with themeage including a rousing rendition of “Disco Duck” on the outro. But the space the SIMPS serenade is a grimy way station for rock’n’roll holdouts from decades past; a weird zone where shaggy 1960s garagers, cigarette-lipped 1970s longhairs, 1980s art school students, and guys who look like the saxophone player from the Muppets brush shoulders in passing with drinks in their hands. In this brilliant swamp of sound, they sometimes come across as the world’s most delusional party band, sometimes like a fentanyl-laced GRATEFUL DEAD, and occasionally like art-punk auteurs in the vein of LE SHOK (see: “Prismic Dangle”), always keeping you on your toes and never resting on their laurels. It’s exactly the type of curiously addictive concoction you might expect from a band that covers both UNNATURAL AXE and NEIL YOUNG.

Tú La Llevas Tú La Llevas LP

There’s a certain nostalgia at the core of this band’s sound, harkening back to when indie was a methodology and labels like Matador were standard bearers of guitar pop that stood left of center. The band’s name is even an homage to YO LA TENGO, so the mission statement is pretty clear. There’s a sort of dreaminess to the shimmering guitar and plaintive vocal melodies that really lands, lending depth and substance to what is ultimately a brisk listen. It’s not exactly life-changing, but it will bring a nice breeze to your day. It’s definitely exciting to hear music that calls back to a particularly rich era of indie rock that seems all but forgotten in today’s landscape in which “indie” can fill arenas. This harkens back to something simpler, personal, and expressive.

Ukabilkada Guretzat LP

Long-term readers may know that I, generally speaking, absolutely adore Basque punk, and specifically the Oi! that this region pumps out with a near clockwork regularity. This release from UKABILKADA promised a lot: a classic Oi! laurel wreath, a skull wearing a beret, a name that literally means “fist;” I was anticipating a good time indeed. But you know, they can’t be all heaters. It’s perfectly fine, workmanlike street punk. It’s not going to set the world alight, but that’s okay. Sadly, I think the most damning verdict I can give is that I can imagine it would be enjoyed by the sort of flat-cap-wearing, camo-shorts-bothering, and flesh-tunnels-sporting Euro skins who love this kind of thing.

Wet Specimens Dying in a Dream EP

Excellent release from Albany’s WET SPECIMENS, whose brand of deathrock-tinged hardcore punk never disappoints. Dying in a Dream features four tracks that see the band sounding cohesive and powerful, leaning into goth territory without ever sounding like a novelty act. In particular, the buzzsaw guitars on the opening title track and the doom-and-gloom of “Curtain Call” sound great, but this one’s a banger from start to finish. Highly recommended for fans of other evil punks ZORN and NURSE.

V/A Punx for Gaza: Benefit Compilation for Mutual Aid In Gaza cassette

As heartbreaking as the situation in Gaza is, I have to take some slight comfort in the fact that the punks have stepped up in a big way and raised a lot of money to get food and other needed things to the people of Gaza. I have seen people working tirelessly to make a difference in Gaza, and I have personally seen these punk compilations make a difference as well. I suggest that you buy this and donate what you can, it is saving lives. My favorites on here are NARKAN and GOLPE. If you like hardcore punk, then there is definitely something for you on this compilation, so buy it! Free Palestine!

Adrestia Requiem LP

This is one for the more metal-oriented punks—those who like people who can actually play their instruments or, to put it objectively, musicians who are actual musicians. ADRESTIA is, or rather was, from Sweden, since Requiem, the band’s seventh LP (including two splits) is their farewell record. I had never paid too much attention to ADRESTIA, and while I do think they are very good at what they do, what they do is not really my cup of tea. The music oscillates between heavy and dark metallic Swedish hardcore like MARTYRDOD or MISANTROPIC and old school death metal, and it all gets a little too technical and not wild enough for me at the end of the day, although it certainly sounds angry and the lyrics are clearly political. The very polished production highlights the band’s qualities and what they want to achieve, and I found myself quite liking the epic sludgy metal number “Where Gods Die” a lot, with very melodic guest vocals from one Linda Johansson. Interesting.

Autobahns First LP! LP

Good shit. I’ve been pretty critical of this so-called “egg-punk” movement since the CONEHEADS pretty much set the quality standard for that sound with their first LP. However, I think this band has something very interesting going for them. Lean, mean punk with enough spacy synths to keep it unique and refreshing. Very catchy riffs, with this nice kind of watery yet fuzzed-out production that keeps me captivated the whole way through. I also really enjoy the vocalist’s pissed-off sounding yelp—it complements songs like “Prick” and “Off Your Mask” very well. Clocking in at just 26 minutes, this is the kind of egg-punk that bum-rushes you with two 40s plus a bag of pills in its hands, and I’m lovin’ it.

Blu Anxxiety Morbid Now Morbid Later LP

Straight from New York, macabre-obsessed ghouls BLU ANXXIETY return from their slumber to unleash Morbid Now Morbid Later upon the world, and just in time for the fall. Embracing a diverse range of goth subgenres while infusing the music with sharp political commentary, BLU ANXXIETY delves deep into the dark sounds of EBM, industrial, and goth rock, while retaining a deathrock backbone. Frontghoul Chi Dracula Orengo describes the band’s sound as “dark freestyle,” a unique perspective and ability to transform various musical influences into a cohesive goth aesthetic, from hip hop to Latin-type beats. You can hear ALIEN SEX FIEND as well as CHRISTIAN DEATH in their music—you might get the sense that if it’s dark, and you can dance to it, it’s in there somewhere. An eerily fun and complete album that pushes the boundaries of a genre that encompasses so much, yet no one dares to do it all at once.

Bottled Violent No Rules EP

Indonesia’s BOTTLED VIOLENT has a name that pretty much tells you all you need to know about their style. With a heavy ’80s USHC influence (namely MINOR THREAT), BOTTLED VIOLENT rips through six tracks on their No Rules EP. Each song is short and sweet with plenty of aggro vocals and clean but frantic guitarwork to go around. Check out “Watch Yourself From the Cops” and “No More.”

Brass Lip Vol. II cassette

Two-piece punk band with lots of shouting and feminist lyrics. I never would have guessed that this was recorded on GarageBand with only two people—the sound is so full that you can’t tell. The talking style of singing in the verses, with a quick tempo change for the chorus, made “Gentleman of Leisure” my favorite song. I enjoyed the more exploratory guitar in the intro and solo, and kind of wished there was more like that in some of the other tracks. The variation of more droning guitar in “Criminal Conversation” helped to build out their sound as well. Overall, I would say this is a solid couple of tracks.

Chain Cult Harm Reduction LP

Being from Athens, Greece, I like to imagine CHAIN CULT climbed Mount Olympus, battled the gods, and returned victorious with the gods’ instruments in tow. Upon returning, they began playing darkened post-punk (with an emphasis on the punk) and releasing epic output regularly. Harm Reduction, the band’s latest recording, is a start-to-finish perfect album. Eight songs in which each member of the band expertly wields their instrument while melodic, gritty vocals bring the sneer and energy. Lyrically, Harm Reduction explores deep territory with lessons in life and death, our rapidly failing planet, and the growing political consequences. The title track “Harm Reduction” opens with some great bass, seering guitars, and contains a catchy hook that loops in your mind for days. Personally, I dig “Harrowing Times,” which is a driving, nearly anthemic, call to attention. Needless to say, if you haven’t listened to CHAIN CULT, well, now is the time.

Die Verlierer Notausgang LP

Absolutely stellar post-punk out of Berlin. What struck me the most on the first listen was how varied the songs are, in both style and length, while still maintaining a common overall sound and feel. In that way, this record almost reminds me of being at a label showcase—the bands might not all sound the same, but you get why they are all there. Noutausgang opens up sounding like early Finnish new wave, then follows that up with a longer, moodier groove, and then turns again on the third track with an early highlight in the group shout that is “Fickt Diese Stadt.” The theme of variety continues throughout with a sub-two-minute hardcore track (“Albtraum”) giving way to the near-six-minute smolder of “Stacheldraht.” If you dig post-punk, new wave, Neue Deutsche Welle, or krautrock, you’ll easily find something to like here. And if the current song doesn’t quite do it for you, the next one might just snap you right back to attention.

The Dumpies Gay Boredom LP

The DUMPIES’ Gay Boredom is a raw, energetic garage punk album that moves back and forth between mid-tempo melodic pop and fast, chaotic bursts of sound. Formed in Austin, Texas in 2017 and now based in Astoria, Oregon, this five-piece blasts out nineteen tracks in just over nineteen minutes, keeping things short and punchy. Produced by music legend Tim Kerr, the album sounds cohesive while covering a range of styles, with the title track’s vocals serving a Richard Butler (the PSYCHEDELIC FURS) vibe while “Ol’ Pal” has a chaotic, FAT DAY-like energy. The double-time cover of YOUNGER LOVERS’ “Ballad of Two Stubborn Men” is a tasty standout. I enjoyed the shit out of this album.

Evil Spirit Onerous Dispelled cassette

The world of punk music has always been built around a rather tight yet ever-changing circle of what we commonly and admiringly call “cult bands.” More often than not, punks are expected to like, acknowledge, or at the very least respect the value of said bands, even though they might not be into them per se. GISM is possibly the cult hardcore band of which I could never really get the appeal. As influential and striking as their music was to many, it never resonated with me, and while I could say this reluctance has to do with their total misunderstanding of the philosophy of CRASS, I think I just find their music cheesy in a bad way. EVIL SPIRIT is from L.A. and intentionally, purposefully sounds a lot like GISM. The vocals sound like a satanic Sakevi, and their metal punk music heavily tends toward old school heavy metal, which leaves me as cold as a Bergman movie. I am sure it is good for what it is, and you can tell EVIL SPIRIT certainly knows what they want to create and succeeds in doing so through a raw and primitive sound production and very well-executed solos. It can get the foot tapping on occasions, but it is just not my cuppa. However, if you love hardcore as much as you do heavy metal and own several sleeveless denim jackets with embroidered patches, Onerous Dispelled will delight you.

Faux Départ Si Tu Disparais EP

FAUX DÉPART first hit my radar with their killer 2021 album Vie Ordinaire. With this latest EP, their style has evolved in a way that moves their core resonance away from RAMONES-inspired three-chord punk and towards punky power pop like that of the POINTED STICKS. That may be too reductive because FAUX DÉPART is not reliant on formula, and has a distinctive knack for crafting deceptively sophisticated tunes. Artful and catchy, the Lyon trio brings four memorable cuts to the table that just get sweeter with each listen. Rolling back the overdrive gives the guitar a sharper edge that begs for a DOGS comparison. This is a perfect companion piece to the ALVILDA album that came out recently, which is to say that it’s a great moment for anyone with a hankering for infectious French power pop.

Glands Generic Waste cassette

Two-piece hardcore punk outfit from Rome. The songs are as ripping as the mastermind behind the project is self-deprecating. An absolutely relentless barrage of feedback amidst the four catchy songs. From what I can gather, this is a solo recording project with a drummer who also does the engineering of the recordings. Very cool. Not sure if GLANDS is a live project, but if you ask me, it sure should be.

Glorious Wounds Glorious Wounds cassette

Hardcore punk project coming from Providence, with deep, melodic ‘core roots merging with breakdowns from time to time. Sufficient execution, with deep, guttural vocals that are on point, and yet most tracks sound and feel like they are the very same (perhaps melodic hardcore all sounds the same to me), with a formula of steady, fast cadences, followed by an impasse or breakdown, and then some soft vocals giving entrance to guttural screamo again and again. A good ball of sound, but perhaps less repetition could help.

Hard Pass Hardcore 2024 cassette

Another crusher from Sweden, where seemingly 90% or so of the world’s best hardcore punk originates. HARD PASS has a massive sound that falls somewhere in the realm of well-produced D-beat, with comparisons drawn to DISRUPT and TOTALITÄR. Special shoutout to their rhythm section; the bass lines are fat and the drumming is scorching. While each song here is a certified ripper, “Welcomed Hell” stands out with a couple of unexpected tempo changes that sees the band shift from mind-melting speed to mid-tempo riffing. Overall, a masterclass of the style that deserves a listen from anyone who likes heavy shit.

Hits World of Dirt LP

HITS is an artsy, post-punk-leaning bedroom pop outfit that’s been going for about a decade now, centered around the songwriting of Jen Weisberg and with contributions from drummer Brian Tester and bassist/sax dude Max Nordile (PREENING, VIOLENCE CREEPS, and a billion other Bay Area bands). They originally hailed from Oakland, but some cryptic Bandcamp copy seems to suggest at least one of them has moved, turning the band into a long-distance recording project. It’s fitting, as World of Dirt is the sound of no place in particular. The eight tracks on the album are a bit of a sonic grab-bag covering various DIY scenes. Some songs wed the primitive, stumbling melodicism of the RAINCOATS to a distinctly American brand of indie pop, resulting in something that sounds like a detuned, lower-fi SOFTIES. Others use GALAXIE 500-esque shimmery guitar—or sax!—drone to fill the cavernous space carved out by YOUNG MARBLE GIANTS-y minimal post-punk tunes. There are even a couple of tracks that get close to the improvised industrial squall of early NURSE WITH WOUND. It’s an album that is as pleasant as it is challenging, featuring genuine songwriting that engages with its influences just the right amount. A real breath of fresh air in a year that’s felt full of cynical, stale bullshit.

The Intima Peril & Panic LP reissue

Originally released in 2003, Peril & Panic was the first (and last) full-length recording from early ’00s Portland/Olympia anarcho avant-punks the INTIMA, and as a teenager who was confined to a largely regressive and apolitical scene 2,000 miles away at the time, it’s hard to articulate the ways in which this band and record helped to unfold maps in my mind that ultimately led me to all sorts of new worlds. This new reissue comes with a much-needed remixing and remastering job, giving even more force to the knotted, intricately structured art-sprawl of these nine tracks compared to the thin and murky initial pressing; despite already being deeply familiar with the record, there’s so many nuances here that are only now revealing themselves to me twenty years on. The EX and DOG FACED HERMANS were two frequent compass points used to orient the band’s approach (and not without reason), but it’s impossible to disentangle the INTIMA’s stormy, grey-skied intensity from being the product of anyplace but the Pacific Northwest—think Scrabbling at the Lock, if it had been left in a damp forest of evergreens to be slowly consumed by moss. Desperate shouts deliver pointed lyrics that are more poetic than didactic, focused largely on intertwined threads of ecological collapse and the accelerating wreckage of capitalism and imperialism, squalls of mournful violin collide with angular, alternately tuned guitar jabs, the drumming clanks and rattles with the kinetic rhythms of industrial machinery, and the result is music intended for dancing amongst the broken glass of shattered empire (more now than ever).

Koridor Kroz Pukotine LP

This is a dark, driving album. A little hardcore, a lot of dark post-punk. Love how the guitar seems to weave all the instruments together into an epic-sounding album. To my ears, it sounds like RUDIMENTARY PENI and KILLING JOKE took their first albums and modernized everything by adding influences from a few current bands. What we end up with is a dark but pleasant album to listen to, one that seems to grow on me. I like it more and more with every listen. This band is not a one-trick pony, every song sounds different and this record is quite special. Great album!

Man-Eaters Quatro Muchachos LP

I’ll be honest, loyal MRR readers: Quatro Muchachos by MAN-EATERS is one of those albums that doesn’t really bring anything new to the table. It’s fairly cut-and-dry rock’n’roll, and it’d be a stretch to call it innovative. However, none of that matters, because this is a really kick-ass record and it packs one hell of a punch. High-energy garage rock which brings to mind the RIFFS mashed with the NEW YORK DOLLS and the most psychedelic offerings from KING GIZZARD. The guitars do most of the heavy lifting—wavering between groovy riffs and classic, scorching solos—but the vocalist has the energy of an anthropomorphic lighting bolt. Also, the album title has to be a ZZ TOP reference, right? If so, that’s ten extra bonus points. Lovely stuff here.

Maria T-Ta y el Empujón Brutal Maria T-Ta y el Empujón Brutal LP

Stripped-down, raw, and primal, MARIA T-TA Y EL EMPUJÓN BRUTAL offered a pointed rebuke to the late ’80s male-centric Peruvian punk scene. The songs here were recorded in 1987 and portray a catchy, garage punk act having fun while poking a middle finger into the eye of a repressive system. The recording quality is quite crude and low-fidelity. MARIA T-TA’s vocals are prominent in the mix along with the drums, but the guitar and bass recede to a point of obscurity, making the progressions somewhat hard to decipher. The album includes some acoustic versions of a few songs as well. A fascinating document to be sure.

No Knock Imagine a World Without Landlord​$​ EP

Relentless, furious CRAZY SPIRIT-style hardcore from NYC that rips from start to finish. I saw them absolutely decimate a backyard show this summer to the point that I was concerned for the singer’s physical condition afterwards—talk about a band leaving everything on the stage (or makeshift patio area). The eight tracks here are mostly straightforward HC shredders, with a sneaky rock’n’roll riff bleeding in occasionally and a well-deserved mid-tempo mini-breakdown every once in a while (probably for safety reasons). The whole band delivers speed and maximum energy to songs like “Can’t Afford Suicide,” “This is Life, Life is Hell,” and “Futureless Cycles.” Bleak themes for bleak times. And check out the rad Nick Blinko-style cover art! Go get this now. Fucking intense and fucking awesome.

Permanent Residue Permanent Residue cassette

The second self-titled cassette by Chicago pop punkers PERMANENT RESIDUE, with four poppy, bouncing, mid-tempo numbers with angsty-sounding vocals. It’s at least one member from CANADIAN RIFLE going in more of a DISCOUNT/THIS IS MY FIST-type of direction. Songs are very catchy, and if any of the aforementioned comparisons are up your alley, then you’re probably going to like this. Personally, I think this style is at its best when the recordings have a bit of grit to them. This tape is too slickly recorded to allow me to relive my youthful pop punk enthusiast years and go gaga over it.

Rouge Sang Rouge Sang demo cassette

Depro-punk foursome from Brest, France out with their five-track demo. Fitting nicely in Symphony of Destruction’s catalog, ROUGE SANG plays dark, melodic punk, keeping a simple lineup of bass, drums, guitar, and vocals. Bands like T.S.O.L. come to mind, mixed with a bit of whole-gang Oi! backing vocals, creating an interesting mix. Does their name come from the politically-minded French folk-rocker RENAUD’s 2006 album Rouge Sang? Unclear. Maybe “blood red” or “red blood” (however the translation goes) just makes for a good gothic-tinged band name. As with most Symphony of Destruction releases, I enjoy this; more in a head-nodding-along kind of manner, less in a “I’ve got to show this to people” kind of way. That said, I’ll be interested to see where this group goes and how they lean into their sound, should there be more coming our way.

Sabotage I’ve Got Big Feelings EP

Need some good screaming? Look no further. The duality of screams from both a female and male vocalist throughout this EP really blew me away, especially the call-and-response in “I’ve Got Big Feelings.” Somewhat screamo at times, but otherwise HC/punk, SABOTAGE is not messing around. With a sprinkle of tempo changes while still keeping their fast energy, these guys sure are hardcore.

Some Kind of Nightmare DCxPC Live & Dead, Vol. 5 LP

Here’s a live and energetic offering from SOME KIND OF NIGHTMARE, who have been a band since the mid-’00s. Very tight and adept at their craft, the power trio graces the crowd with a throwback to the ’90s style of punk rock, like what you would find on one of those East Coast Pogo Attack videos. Socially-conscious lyrics channeled through polished, melodic street punk. As far as live recordings go, the quality here is top-notch. Fans of the band will want to track this down. 

Tiger 54 Tiger 54 CD

Meh. The industrial elements come off soft and the girl’s voice is honestly just annoying, and not in a cool Kathleen Hanna kind of way. I just can’t get into it. It sounds like some music that would be played in a late-night commercial. The drums are tinny, the production is bland, and there’s nothing here that’s really punchy enough to keep my attention. Not awful, but not really something I can find myself getting into, either.

The Zeros Beat Your Heart Out / Wild Weekend 7″ reissue

Breathing new life into a classic knockout combo, the ZEROS’ excellent second single gets a sharp pink reissue from Munster Records. Originally released in ’78, it helped set the standards, perfectly encapsulating the ’60s garage-inspired teen punk energy. Both tracks are fire really, but “Wild Weekend” especially never gets old.

V/A Chaos in CH, Vol. 2: A Collection of Underground Swiss Punk 1977–1984 LP

This album is an excellent collection of punk and early hardcore from Switzerland from 1977–1984, featuring seven bands. My favorite is the SQUIRT with their brand of hardcore punk influenced by DEAD KENNEDYS, D.O.A., and BLACK FLAG according to the booklet in the record, but sounding like they owe just as much of their sound to BGK or the NITWITZ. Every band on this record is good. The BASTARDS start off Side B with the instantly recognizable “Impossibilities.” What a great compilation!