Haram

Reviews

Haram Why Does Paradise Begin in Hell LP / ليش الجنة بيتبلش في الجهنم؟

HARAM returns with Why Does Paradise Begin in Hell?, their first full-length in years, and it’s as devastating as expected. Rooted in hardcore punk but saturated with emotional and political urgency, the album blends Arabic and English lyrics to explore themes of displacement, faith, and fury. The New York band continues to redefine what hardcore can sound like—unapologetically personal and raw, with production that feels like a live explosion in a basement show. Toxic State presents the album beautifully: chaotic layout, bold visuals, and music that refuses silence. Essential modern hardcore.

Haram وين كنيت بي ١١​/​٩؟? (Where Were You on 9/11?) EP

This is the first record that’s ever made me cry. I felt a deep, personal connection to the concept, and the record’s power—both in terms of lyrics and musical brutality—left me mindblown. This release seems a bit more dynamic than their others: there’s some chaotic, interesting guitar parts on “Bomb in the Sky,” and a cool SACRILEGE-type galloping intro on “The Solution (Is Resistance).” The singer’s signature snarl sits on top of the mix, delayed and distorted in just the right amounts. My favorite track has got to be the last one, “Jihad, Jihadi.” The riff reminds me of something EXOTICA would do, and the lyrics sing like an anthem. It seriously gives me chills.