The split 7” record featuring Graz-based bands S.I.G and Anna Absolut is a true celebration of punk energy, indie attitude, and raw musical creativity. Both bands, while occupying different corners of the punk rock spectrum, complement each other perfectly, offering an thrilling blend of high-octane melodies, fiery vocals, and intricately crafted instrumentation. This split is a must-have for fans of punk and indie rock music, showcasing the best of both worlds in just four tracks. Each band brings their own unique flavor, with S.I.G delivering a more traditional, melody-driven punk assault, while Anna Absolut brings their signature indie punk sound, packed with emotional nuance and infectious grooves.
Starting with S.I.G’s contribution, the band wastes no time in kicking things off with “Barrikaden,” a powerful, melody-soaked anthem that oozes punk rock grit and defiance. From the very first chord, you’re hit with the band’s signature blend of distorted, heavy riffs drenched in melodic harmonies. The guitar work is phenomenal, balancing raw aggression with intricate layers of melody that give the track a sense of grandeur. There’s something incredibly anthemic about the way the guitars are structured; they drive the song forward with relentless energy, yet there’s clear attention to detail in the way the riffs interact with one another, creating a rich, full-bodied sound. The vocals are another standout feature. The lead singer delivers powerful, semi-distorted, melodic, and raw shout-outs, bringing an emotional intensity that elevates the songs beyond standard punk fare. The vocal delivery on “Barrikaden” is a perfect blend of melody and aggression, with enough grit to maintain that punk edge, yet enough harmony to make the chorus stick in your head long after the song ends. It’s a vocal performance that channels the urgency of many legendary bands but retains a fresh, modern appeal. The second track, “Stand My Ground,” continues the assault with even more intensity. Here, S.I.G leans into their punk roots with an energetic, driving rhythm section that propels the track forward. The bass guitar is a key player in this track, providing a warm, heavy low-end that binds everything together. It’s intricate yet thunderous, adding both clarity and depth to the overall mix. The drumming on “Stand My Ground” is excellent, with groovy beats and sharp fills that push the song to new heights. The drummer expertly balances aggression with groove, never losing the momentum but always keeping the music dynamic and interesting. It’s the kind of track that demands you to move, whether you’re in a sweaty punk club or blasting it through your headphones.
Then comes Anna Absolut, offering a shift in tone without losing any of the raw energy that defines this split. Their side opens with “Picasso,” a track that immediately highlights their indie punk roots. Where S.I.G is all about high-energy riffage and shout-along choruses, Anna Absolut takes a more nuanced approach. The guitars on “Picasso” are a masterclass in contrast, shifting between calm, semi-distorted chord progressions and bursts of aggressive, sharp riffs. There’s a certain delicacy to the verses, where the guitars breathe and allow the vocals to take center stage, only to burst in the chorus with a wall of raw and melodic sound. The lead singer’s voice is melodic and precise, with a whispery quality in the verses that gives way to powerful shouts in the choruses. It’s a vocal performance that feels intimate yet commanding, perfectly matching the emotional ebb and flow of the music. On “Am Ende waren’s die anderen,” the second track, this dynamic vocal range is showcased even more, as the singer navigates between moments of quiet reflection and bursts of raw emotion. There’s an authenticity to the vocal delivery that makes every word feel like it’s being sung directly to you, creating a connection that’s hard to shake. Anna Absolut’s rhythm section is another highlight, particularly the bass guitar, which punches through the mix with intricate low-end lines that never feel overly complicated but always add a sense of forward momentum. The bass provides a foundation that allows the guitars to explore more melodic territory while keeping everything grounded. The drumming is impressive, with a combination of groovy beats and sharp fills that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. The percussion here is not just about keeping time—it’s about adding texture and dynamic shifts to the music, making each track feel like a journey.
What makes this split so compelling is the way these two bands, while different in their approach, complement each other so perfectly. S.I.G brings the fire with their aggressive, riff-heavy punk rock, while Anna Absolut balances that with a more introspective, melodic take on the genre. Both sides of the split are full of energy and emotion, but they approach it from different angles, creating a listening experience that feels complete and satisfying. In terms of production, the split sounds fantastic. The guitars are thick and rich, the bass is warm and full, and the drums hit with the kind of punch that makes you feel every beat. There’s a rawness to the production that fits the punk aesthetic, but it’s polished enough to ensure that every element comes through clearly. Each layer of sound is given space to breathe, creating a powerful and detailed sonic landscape.
This split 7” exemplifies the strength of the Graz’s punk scene and it represents a brilliant showcase of two bands that are pushing the genre forward in their own unique ways. S.I.G delivers two tracks of blistering, anthemic punk rock that’s impossible to ignore, while Anna Absolut offers a more melodic, introspective take that’s just as impactful. Together, they create a release that feels cohesive yet diverse, offering something for every type of punk rock fan. This is a split that’s not to be missed, available now via Grazil Records—a must-have for anyone who appreciates raw, authentic, and emotionally charged music.
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