Monday, May 25, 2015

V/A - H'ARTCORE Compilation LP


Another great compilation from the early 80s, this time from the German label H'art Musik, which was responsible for classic albums by UPRIGHT CITIZENS and HASS. This one contains many exclusive tracks and many bands that don't seem to appear anywhere else. Right off the bat CORNY VARIOUS lights things up with a blazing bass-chord ripper, leaving me wondering what else they may have left behind to be discovered. German punk enthusiasts will no doubt already be familiar with the likes of BLUTTAT and UPRIGHT CITIZENS, both of whom contribute memorable rippers here. More pleasant surprises are brought by CLOX, N.D.R., and the charming SUFF, who makes me think of the Dutch band THE NIXE.  


Saturday, May 23, 2015

V/A - RAPTUS Compilation LP


A good mix of rough and primitive punk and oi from Italy circa '83. Some of it is a bit unimaginitive, but the spirit is in the sound. Stand-out material on here for me are the fast and early USHC inspired WOPS tracks, the groovy 77 punk by PETROLIO, and of course the early RAW POWER recordings. I'm pretty sure most of the material here was not officially released elsewhere, so listen and learn!


ps - I've been after a copy of Raptus vol 2 for quite some time. I'm happy to pay a reasonable price if anyone out there is selling one!