CRAIG’S BROTHER, the iconic ’90s skate punk band from Santa Cruz, California is back with another new song that stays true to their fast and furious roots. “All The Way” is an uplifting and energetic song that contrasts the undying love of a father with the fleeting bliss of teen approval.
United Defiance are hailing from East Bay area in California and this is their new release. I must admit that I have not listened to this band prior to this record but I am so glad that I discovered them now. What to expect here? Well, a jewel. This band offers something that I love since the nineties, being old school melodic hardcore punk, skatepunk, sounding more like having influence from the nineties than modern technical stuff. Of course, that does not mean these guys can´t play, quite the contrary. This whole album has kinda sad and melancholic vibe, at least it has such impact on me while listening. But, all those harmonies, those vocal lines and sing along parts, coupled with fast drums, great bass lines and guitar harmonies are sure to win you over and make you listening to this record over and over again, discovering your new favorite all the time. Lyrics are more into personal stuff, but I think most of us being into this music can relate to the songs. As a special treat, United Defiance covered We´re Not Gonna Take It featuring guest performance by none other than Jason DeVore of Authority Zero. My personal favorite are Running Out Of Time, Cool Kids Club, Empty Advice and Sing With Me. This is for sure one of the best melodic punk releases to come out this year. Can´t wait to witness this band live.
Do you remember No Quarter from Australia? I reviewed their record couple of years back. This time, the guys released a three song e.p. and I have the honor to listen and review this one for my zine. The title song is acoustic and it is a heartfelt ode to loss, heartbreak, losing a family member and coping with grief. I experienced that too much in my life already. I love the song. My President is a re-recording of an old song, being classic skatepunk fast melodic anthem with superb harmonies, guitar work and vocals. What most surprised me is a Metallica cover Damage Inc and No Quarter practically blew me away with their merciless cover of this thrash metal classic. Nice little e.p. Check out other releases by this great Australian band.
KRAYKULLA-WEBZINE 