Wow! That’s what I can say after listening to the debut full length by Brutala, hardcore band from Croatia’s capital Zagreb. Although this is a new band in the scene, its members are veterans from other bands, carrying at least 15 years of experience in the scene. The title of the album means Head Up in Croatian and the album brings uplifting hardcore punk energy to the listener and takes me back to my beginnings over 30 years ago when I discovered hardcore and why it is so dear to me and why I live the way I live through hardcore lifestyle. All of the album’s lyrics are in Croatian and they are personal but also bring that old spirit and flame to hardcore hearts. Music is a mix of street Euro hardcore with punk influences, some more metalic breakdowns and modern parts, with excellent vocalist whose voice fits perfectly to the song structures. My personal favorites are Prvi Kad Je Najteže featuring guest vocals by none other than Alen Rakić of Šank?!, also my favorites are Nemam Vremena, Do Pobjede and Za ekipu, all instant hardcore hits and anthems. Can’t wait to witness this band live, I am sure that live shows are fantastic. My reccomendation. Probably one of the best Croatian releases so far this year.

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