Ação Direta, a legendary politically charged Brasilian hardcore punk band, has undoubtedly left a mark on the local and international DIY scene. Being active for more than thirty years, they unleashed many remarkable recordings that stand the test of time today. “Entre a Bênção e o Caos” is their fourth album, and not only one of their best recordings ever, but a collection of energetic tracks that could pair with recordings of even more renowned names in the game. Released in collaboration between many record underground labels, such as Bloodshed666 Records, Tu Pank Records, Two Beers Or Not Two Beers Records, Bacural Discos, Chuta Coco Records, Fatalism Extreme, La Ursa Discos, Monstro Discos, Vermelho Discos, Lo Kaos, Fuckitall Records, Dedication Records, Bc Noise Records, Revelia Discos, Insetus Producoes, Oxenti Records, Terceiro Mundo Chaos Discos, Undergrind Records, this album only proves how much impact has it left on the international hardcore scene.
Containing fourteen excellent tracks, “Entre a Bênção e o Caos” stands as a true classic where wisely written, socio-political lyricism pointed towards all the injustices collides with expertly assembled sonic and rhythmic maneuvers. This album goes beyond mere hardcore punk sound as it uplifts the genre on an entirely new level with its aggressive, heavy, fast approach. The guitars stand out in all their glory, with an entire amalgam of marvelously assembled, flawlessly performed, and superbly recorded riffs, chord progressions, melodies, harmonies, etc. Ação Direta incorporates old-school and new-school hardcore punka esthetics, but don’t be surprised if you stumble upon some classic UK82 and straightforward punk rock ideas involved. This stylistic palette allows them to create a diverse, unique, yet familiar sound that will resonate with the broader auditorium. The much calmer regular and arpeggiated chord progressions, usually presented through longevous overtures, add a touch of freshness and depth to these songs. All these guitar interplays and maneuvers serve as a perfect backdrop, immensely supporting the vocal performance.
Speaking of the vocals, Ação Direta aims for a more classic approach as their vocal delivers intelligent, constructive lyricism with in-your-face shouts. The sincerity, confidence, and power presented through this vocal technique give more complexity and aggression to already intricate compositions. The rhythm section plays a significant role in this sonic equation, as bass and drums represent the foundation of Ação Direta’s sound. You’ll hear how equally intricate, vividly hearable, warm-sounding low-ends roar beneath guitar layers, offering more than necessary heaviness, clarity, and depth while binding all the instrumentations with drums. In the meantime, the drummer tears everything apart by keeping everything in line and dictating groove and tempo with fast-paced, well-accentuated beats, breaks, fills, and other percussive acrobatics. Each band member gave his best performance, so that’s the reason why this album still sounds good and resonates with the same sheer aggression and power even after almost thirty years since its inception.
“Entre a Bênção e o Caos” is one of those albums you should definitely need in your record collection if you’re into flawlessly executed hardcore punk music. This reissue arrives with an original artwork, printed on a hefty, high-quality cardboard sleeve. It also has an inlay with all the lyrics and info you need to know about the band and participating record labels., while the red vinyl perfectly complements the cover artwork. Head to Bloodshed666 Records for this part of Europe, or check out the remaining record label closer to your region. Don’t miss this gem!
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