Reviews

Fair Warning

Obedience MMXIX LP

If you paid attention to the 2016 demo, then you pretty much know this 12″ platter is going to be good. Well, it’s better than that. A ten-track juggernaut, with Dave’s vocals cranking out frustration and wisdom at a pace and ferocity that rivals ’82 MDC. There’s an amped up Oi! undertone that sneaks into the mix here and there, which only serves to make their unhinged rage a little catchier than it probably should be…and makes bangers like “Wall Me In” hopelessly addictive. For reference, this Austin band features members of TEAR IT UP, CONCRETE, SEVERED HEAD OF STATE and BREAKOUT…you know, in case you needed any convincing.

Subterranean Kids Los Ojos de la Víctima LP reissue

Re-presenting the 1987 debut album from these Catalan hardcore legends, this new edition of Los Ojos de la Víctima (“The Victim’s Eyes”) reminds us of the band’s power and creativity in its formative stages. Mixing D.R.I.-level thrash chaos with MINOR THREAT-style breakdowns, all presented with the dramatic flair of MDC, the songs are short, abrasive, and unpredictable. Unbridled intensity suddenly drops into a casual, bass-heavy groove before exploding back into screaming fury. A menacing chug turns to a relaxed tempo with noodling guitar, and then the next track is tripping over itself with incomprehensible urgency. It’s sure to keep you on your toes. The remastered album is included here in its entirety, along with two previously unreleased tracks.