I met Yotam and Ishay from Useless ID couple of years ago at Punk Rock Holiday when we did an interview for this zine and I can say they are most friendly, down to earth people I met in this scene. Now, Useless ID released their kinda best of greatest hits album on Fat Wreck Chords. This record contains all the songs that are standard parts of their live set, fan favorites, some hits and some misses hehe. I have always been fascinated how these guys can transform their music from angry hardcore kids to emotional melodic almost indie pop punk and back again to skatepunk hardcore. Besides my favorites like State is burning, Night shift, How to dismantle an atom bomb or Night stalker, there are also two new songs which are fuckin amazing. So, go grab this one, if you are a fan you will love it, if you are not a fan you will become one soon.
Authority Zero are back with new e.p. These legends deliver five songs on this record. I witnessed this band play live and their show was one of the best punk rock shows I saw ever! Authority Zero play a mixture of melodic hardcore and skate punk coupled with ska and reggae in some songs and it sounds perfect! This one contains absolute hit that I am sure will be a bomb at live shows called Ollie Ollie Oxen Free with anthemic chorus just made for singing along and pumping your fists in the air. Fire Off Another is a more mid tempo punk song, reminding me a bit of Bad Religion in some parts. Jason DeVore has such a mighty and beautiful voice, harsh and melodic at the same time. The title song is another favorite of mine on this e.p. reminding me why I love this band a lot. Cool song with such nice lyrics and melody. Seas and Serpents is a punk anthem with message to hold on and keep our heads up and not all is over. Have You Ever is typical AZ lovely fast song to make your day better. Perfect e.p.
La Armadacaptured the personal and global tribulations of 2020 in three separate stints at Chicago’s Electrical Audio Studios. The sessions resulted in Anti-Colonial Vol. 2 – An 11 song album that looks to leave their distinct mark on heavy music.
The first single, Death on Replay, is a picture of the band during the height of the pandemic in 2020. “Musically we build tension with chaotic and technical rhythms, then release it with the familiarity of our punk and hardcore roots. Lyrically we reflect on the duality between being on the road versus being on lockdown, where you have to balance isolation and anxiety with the need to create art and push forward through dark times.” Guitarist, Paul explains.
La Armada’s focus is to leave their mark on heavy music. A punk band at heart, they utilize elements of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and metal to create a style as unique as their story. Formed in the Dominican Republic in 2001 from where they dominated the Caribbean scene for years, the band opted to take a leap and relocate to Chicago in 2008, where they still reside.
Influenced by bands ranging from the Bad Brains to Death, they take elements from their native Island’s music to conjure a unique recipe; explosive live energy, and a clear cut narrative that highlights the effects of neo-colonialism on vulnerable communities.
Whether headlining tours throughout the world or supporting the likes of Sick of it All, Propagandhi, Strung Out, Death by stereo, and more, La Armada has come to bring a vibrant spin to the scene.
KRAYKULLA-WEBZINE 