The Video Dead — Damn Disco

Burlington, Ont. hardcore-meets-old school punk outfit The Video Dead have never been ones for subtlety.

Previous efforts like Brotherhood Of The Dead were formidable affairs that revealed a deep sense of disgruntlement to match admirable ability. Still, those were the "crawling" albums — releases where the band were learning. With Damn Disco, however, the quintet are steaming ahead full-bore.

The album is fast and aggressive while still incorporating catchiness and simplicity, and its 13 tracks display a band who have managed to capture rock 'n' roll essence. The end result is a collection of tunes that mix Rancid's attitude with Motorhead's uncompromising directness and the indelible hooks of acts like The Hives injected into every one of their songs.

From the infatuating grit of "Did He Die Of A Broken Heart?" through "The Stakes Are High But So Are We" and closer "Mexemo," Damn Disco ushers the band onto the international playing field of ballsy, melodic hardcore.

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