Insects marks album number five from Breed 77, the Gibraltan metallers who have been likened to a flamenco version of System of a Down. In Your Blood back in 2006 was a fine album that deserved to propel them onto the next level but as we all know strong reviews and critical acclaim do not always translate into strong sales and they remain a cult band albeit with a loyal following here in the UK. After they returned the following year with Un Encuentro it was with an album of previous material rerecorded with the vocals in Spanish so Insects effectively marks the follow-up album proper to In Your Blood.
Breed 77 continue to draw on their Latin roots and mix up the arrangements which succeeds in making this a fresh and unique sounding album that surpasses the heights scaled by In Your Blood and evidences their continued progression. The relentless riffing of lead cut and current single "Wake Up" sets the scene for much of what is to follow; vocalist Paul Isola continuing to impress with his muscular and uplifting delivery. A considerably heavier album than its predecessor the title track and "Who I Am" mark a direct straight forward metal delivery with the vocal breakdown sections offering the only respite. Insects is an album that is littered throughout with chugging riffs and anthemic choruses; the intensely powerful "Forever" and the rhythmic infusion of "The Battle of Hatin" are soaraway highlights that should quickly make an impression on the upcoming UK tour. Never a band that can be easily pigeonholed the final track is an intriguing cover of the Cranberries' "Zombie" that showcases their virtuoso qualities.
Very much a band at the top of their game Insects is conformation that Breed 77 are a very special band that really do deserve to be heard by a much wider audience.
Track Listing
Wake Up
The Battle Of Hatin
Revolution On My Mind
Insects
Who I Am
New Disease
One More Time
In The Temple Of Ram: Rise Of The Bugs
Forever
Guerra Del Sol
Zombie
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
