King of Pigs is a band that unapologetically embraces their influences, delivering a fierce sound that pays homage to old-school hardcore punk. The band’s latest release exemplifies their relentless energy and devotion to the genre, offering listeners a high-octane experience. Comprising former members of various hardcore and metal bands, King of Pigs successfully channels the raw power of the eighties and nineties hardcore music, often celebrated as the best decades for this particular music genre. The album kicks off with an adrenaline-pumping burst of feedback and snare rolls, setting the stage for the sonic rollercoaster that is King of Pigs. The rhythm section, reminiscent of Citizens Arrest, Drop Dead, Larm, Seein’ Red’s aggressive and gritty style, drives the music forward with a relentless barrage of four-string distortion, rapid-fire snare, and the occasional double-kick drum attack. This rock-solid rhythm section provides a solid foundation for the band’s explosive sound. Meanwhile, the cleverly assembled riffs slice through the mix with precision and speed, adding an exhilarating layer of complexity to the music. Vocalist Andy complements this sonic assault with a vocal delivery that escalates into cathartic screams, embodying the emotional intensity that defines King of Pigs’ music.
The album comprises eleven tracks, each an intense burst of hardcore punk energy, with most songs clocking in at under two minutes. The songs are characterized by their blistering speed, drawing inspiration from iconic 80s hardcore bands like Siege, SSD, Poison Idea, Heresy, and Ripcord. Despite their brevity, the tracks capture a wide range of dynamics, with “slow” sections that still outpace many bands, offering a chugging sound reminiscent of the hardcore greats. King of Pigs is not just about ferocious music; they also inject a healthy dose of humor into their work, as evidenced by their tongue-in-cheek song titles. The album opens with “Rabbit Trigger” and “Life sKIllz”, a titles that suggest a playful irreverence while maintaining the band’s commitment to delivering hard-hitting music. Other tracks, such as “Satanic Housewife Death Rattle,” “Holy Hand Grenade,” and “Rabbit Trigger,” demonstrate the band’s penchant for quirky, offbeat themes that add a layer of fun to the listening experience. The references to Monty Python’s Holy Grail in songs like “Holy Hand Grenade” suggest a clever nod to pop culture, adding depth and context to the band’s creative output.
While King of Pigs draws heavily from their hardcore punk influences, they infuse their music with a distinct personality that sets them apart from their predecessors. Their ability to combine fierce musicianship with playful themes results in an engaging and entertaining album. Their musicianship and commitment to the punk ethos are evident throughout the release, providing a visceral listening experience that will appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers to the genre. King of Pigs’ latest release is a hardcore masterpiece, showcasing their ability to blend traditional influences with a modern twist. The album exemplifies their dedication to the genre, offering a collection of songs that are as musically impressive as they are humorously engaging. With their relentless energy, technical prowess, and unique sense of humor, King of Pigs has crafted a record that will leave listeners eagerly anticipating their next move. This release not only cements their place in the hardcore punk landscape but also highlights their potential for continued growth and innovation in the future. Head to Engineer Records for more information about ordering.
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