A brand-new Blisterhead EP titled “Border Control” is out now and that means everyone who enjoys 50s rock ‘n’ roll and 70s punk rock are in for a real treat. Check out the title track “Border Control” here:
Released on May 19, the new EP shows off why this band was well respected in the Swedish street punk movement. It was recorded live in The Panic Room Studio together with Thomas “Plec” Johansson and features fast-paced guitars and bold messages that fuse together and inject firepower through the EP’s four tracks. The theme throughout the EP questions the current situation for refugees in Europe and how the political world mistreats and excludes people, giving the EP a sense of purpose. The overall sound experience is exactly tailor made for fans of bands such as The Ramones, The Clash and Rancid.
The opening track “Border Control” immediately lets you know what you’re in for. It’s fast pounding drums and rhythmic basslines compliment swirling guitars and made-for-punk vocals complete with a catchy chorus. The song is an accurate portrayal of the EP’s sound and is a great opener to get listeners juiced up for what’s to come.
“Valley of the Dead” follows up with a prominent bass opening by bassist Andreas Emanuelsson. The lines “We will never be free” show the band’s lyrical approach of struggling against higher powers, a necessary ingredient in any punk revolution. Two songs in and Blisterhead does not disappoint in delivering quality choruses wrapped up in energetic performances by all band members.
The third track “Blood On Your Face” is also a head banger and it really shows off Erik Törnqvist and Kim Nilsson vocals and guitar work as they combine their talents by harmonizing well during the chorus. Closing the EP is “System Overload,” which continues the introspective lyrical approach that questions the government. “We’re all to blame for the mess we created” speaks true of the situation the EP tackles, and the bold nature of the lyrics really add depth to the songs. The guitar solo is this track is up-beat and the drums are as solid as they can be, leaving you with a feeling of wanting to listen to all again and again. Though the EP is short, it provides just enough to get you interested in checking out more of their discography if you haven’t already.
In the end, if you’re a true hard-core punk fan, it’s a no-brainer: “Border Control” is a definite purchase. Blisterhead is known for taking riffs and basslines from different eras and providing the best punk experience you can get in today’s world.
The vinyl issue is distributed by Dead Lamb Records (Ireland), Dirty Old Man Records (England), Rock Em Dead Records (England) and Punkebjartes Punkeplattor (Norge). Cramada is handling the digital release through Sound Pollution Distribution, Phonofile (Nordic countries) and The Orchard (worldwide).
To stay up to date with Blisterhead, check them out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Spotify.
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