POGOWOLVES are tough to nail down—there are elements of wild Japanese hardcore (thinking about the backing vox and the You-esque bass), and they seem to be leaning towards a metallic STARVING WOLVES approach; it’s a lot to handle. On the flip, DOGFIGHTT is early UK trash and ’80s Sunset Strip energy, total ENGLISH DOGS and INEPSY vibes with searing lead vocals. Both bands are from Kuala Lumpur and both demand further investigation.
Within the first five seconds of “Flaming Soul” I’m scanning the back of the sleeve expecting an HG Fact or Blood Sucker logo. This top-tier Japanese hardcore influenced-shit is from Malaysia, features serious Chelsea (more PAINTBOX than DEATH SIDE) riffing and one epic romp after another. Can’t recommend it enough for fans of the aforementioned, CRUDE, LIBERATE, JABARA and the like. “On the Mirror” pivots to a swingy and bluesy take on the style. I’m not losing my mind over it but it’s catchy, and one must appreciate the chutzpah of such a composition. POGOWOLVES have definitely won my attention and “Flaming Soul” is certain to become a regular spin in this household. Looking forward to more!
