Propagandhi — Supporting Caste

Propagandhi's fifth studio release has upped the ante for the Canadian punk-meets-metal rockers.

Lyrically, the album is ripe with controversial political and social issues, but it wouldn't be a Propagandhi album if it wasn't. The vegans and animal rights activists spread a preachy amount of meat-eating hate throughout the album along with a heavy dose of suspicion about social hierarchy and war.

"Dear Coach's Corner" suggests the song may be an ode to hockey, but it's really a letter to Ron MacLean questioning Don Cherry's tendency to use the game to propagate war. Heavier thrash tracks like "This Is Your Life" are chock full of roaring guitar solos and show the band are developing a heavier, more hardcore style as they mature.

"Human(e) Meat (The Flensing Of Sandor Katz)" is melodically one of the best tracks, but uncomfortably opens with audio of a possible beheading that makes skipping the song seem more appealing than listening through the screaming (even though it's well worth it in the end).

Standouts include "The Banger's Embrace" and the hidden bad-ass anarchist cover of Black Widow's "Come To The Sabbat." Propagandhi have gotten heavier and Supporting Caste represents one of their best works to date, both musically and lyrically.

Get it from