.upset / 8082 – Passing The Torch EP (Geenger Records)

Geenger Records are known for being a diverse record label with such unique artists. Their catalog continuously expands, and they’re not staying loyal to one particular genre. Quite the contrary, you may find everything from hardcore punk, post-punk, black metal, world music, and anything else that comes in between those genres. The label keeps activities as prolific as possible by giving a top priority to the artists located in the Balkan region, but you can stumble upon some international artists as well. The split album Im covering today is one of those international collaborations, which are common in Geenger Records headquarters. Croatian hardcore greats .upset teamed up with premium Austrian hardcore group 8082. Both bands are roaming the hardcore scene for a while, with .upset being a bit more prolific by putting up a couple of more recordings than 8082.

Passing The Torch carries two compositions per group or four compositions in total. Each band delivers its version of hardcore, and they differ in the matter of some minor preferences that are unquestionably defining their sound. .upset are known for their massive guitar shreds that resemble mid-nineties NYHC and late nineties European schools of hardcore. The group avoids standard cliches and strays from metal sound as much as possible, but it gives a decent amount of space to some streetpunk/Oi maneuvers, mainly presented through subtly melodic choruses. The band feels comfortable in these waters, which is vividly hearable through their energetic performance. The melodic themes are flawlessly intervening with robust riffages, while the dynamic rhythmic section punches from beneath. The vocals are adding more aggression over the top, so you got yourself outstanding hardcore tunes that will suit even the pickiest admirers of the genre.

8082 explore a contemporary hardcore sound that resembles renowned groups such as Rotting Out, Terror, Expire, Trapped Under Ice, Backtrack, Down To Nothing, and many others. The group solely relies upon fast-paced guitar shreds, well-defined rhythmic segments, and complex arrangements. 8082 delivers a lot of aggression and power through these thoughtfully assembled components, while the slightly high-pitched lead vocals are rumbling from above. Besides loads of palm-muted guitar segments and fast-paced rhythms, you may also stumble upon some beatdowns, especially on their second composition. 8082 are demonstrating their take on modern hardcore, which sounds powerful by all means. Passing The Torch is available through all digital platforms, but you can also check out Geenger Records web store for merch and other goodies.