Uzu: S/T 12″

Description

S.O.D, like an internationalist punkonaut on the moon, looking the birth of another punk band release who mixed differents cultures from all continents that reflect the label’s identity, is proud to present you the first record of UZU.

This Montreal-based band has members from Algeria, Colombia, and Quebec who also play in other bands such Demokhratia, Bosque Rojo, and Ultra Razzia. UZUs sound mixes elements of post-punk with dark, mid-tempo, melodic punk with an incisive vibe ala Siekiera! Their dramatic lyrics, sung in Arabic, are poetic and personal, yet they contain profound political messages if you read between the lines.

Our take: While Uzu is part of Montreals white-hot punk scene and has a membership that overlaps with Bosque Rojo and Ultra Razzia, theyre a very international band with members from Quebec, Algeria, and Colombia. Their lyrics are in Arabic, which gives their songs an interesting sound right off the bat, and stylistically they have some of post-punks brooding atmosphere, they arent afraid of melodies (particularly melodies with a darker bent), and they play heavy and fast like a hardcore band. Uzu reminds me of a band Feral Ward might have put out in the 2000s they occupy a similar lane as Complications, No Hope for the Kids, and Criminal Damage: high-impact music rich in energy and hooks. The singer has a Rozz Williams-esque quaver to their voice that you might love or hate, but its a strong sonic calling card. Uzus debut record is easy to like, and its eight short and focused tracks fly by in a rush of punk energy.