I had been hearing about this band for a long fuckin' time, and I heard a few samples awhile ago that I liked, so I finally had to pick this up, and I'm glad I did. I seem to see them compared to the Bad Brains and Burn a lot, but I disagree with that. They're definitely an extremely creative band, and there are definitely some riffs reminiscent of both of those bands on this EP (and some of the vocals do sound a lot like Burn), but when guys cite influences ranging from hardcore/punk and hip-hop to 60's protest rock, reggae/dub, and world beats you should be in for something a little different if they're doing it right, and these cats certainly are. Don't be too critical of the influences mentioned, because the vocal patterns never really hit much of a hip-hop thing at all, and most of the other "outside the box" genres mentioned come into play on a percussive level more than anything. Sure, there are a few reggae chord progressions complete with heavy reverb, but most of the writing is far more creatively melodic and heavy - very atypical in both style and song structure. "Living in Kaos/Love vs. Hate" is a more straightforward heavy hardcore track with a lot of energy and some noisy layers adding additional texture and an odd rock sound that breaks into a reggae passage with subtly sung vocals during the latter portion. "Light Will Shine" is heavier and more melodic with an amazing post-hardcore break really quickly towards the end, and "Dem Troopers" is even heavier (though still not too metallic) with a strong midpaced tempo. The wah riffs in "Eye for All" are pretty whacked out and rock 'n' roll, definitely unexpected... not exactly the best thing herein, but another layer nonetheless, almost hinting at a prog rock thing in a few drawn out instances during the tail end. The recording's fine. Not too developed, it's definitely on the quiet side and could be better, maybe sounding slightly dated, but I'm okay with it. They rhythm section sounds good, with the bass dropping some killer runs in the distance, the guitars have a nice ringing distortion, the vocals are fine, etc. It's all good, I just think a thicker and brighter sound would make these dudes sound fucking amazing. I know budgetary constraints play a role, but these songs certainly deserve the best that money can buy. The layout keeps it simple with a minimal color scheme, basic graphics, a few band photos, etc. The lyrics basically follow themes of unity and educating oneself to bring people together and make a change, etc. - often with a bit of a socio-political bent. "This genocide of truth, the attempt to enslave, has fertilized the youth, from birth to the grave, in a land of opportunities for minimum wage slaves. Sound the alarm: The citizens are sleeping. The time has come, they must wake up." Great stuff here. It's right on the line where they're just about to inch up another level, and I highly respect their creativity. If they can keep it going I suspect they'll blow some minds in a major way at some point, so keep an eye out.
[Hell Bent]
Running time - 21:02, Tracks: 6
[Notable tracks: Universal Tribe, Living in Kaos/Love vs. Hate, Light Will Shine]
Charge - http://www.chargeband.com
