It’s late in the year and you will already be compiling your “best of” lists – but spare a thought and leave a slot for California-based Melodic Hardcore outfit No Bragging Rights.
What does it sound like? Well, I’m showing my age now, but to me it sounds like Finch, like At The Drive-In. I’ll even say there are echoes of some of my favourite Fall Out Boy songs, then wisely duck and cover (I get the impression these guys don’t mess around and on this outing are certainly more Hardcore than melodic). The drums the drums the drums! Play it loud.
No Bragging Rights’ first new release since 2014 quickly makes its mark. Strengths Perspective – great title! – is a strong, proper opener, a calling card, a calling out. Walking Blind is a gut churner, a torrent of drums and rapid, squalling geetars. The quality stays high as track three, Breaking Point, tackles domestic abuse like these guys tackle everything else, head on, but is full of knowing and empathy (“Everything I need to succeed/ I have/ In me … Everything I need to succeed/ I have/ In me.”) Stages bludgeons then salves, a bona fide epic. The Weight is … HEAVY … but poised and precise, the melodies are back. Regret perhaps best showcases the band’s variety and versatility, with no regrets.
Final song Unapologetic opens relatively calmly, offering a rare chance to draw breath, then we’re back into the maelstrom (the drums the drums the drums!). If music can ever make a difference, really make a difference, No Bragging Rights seem to be trying harder than most.
No Bragging Rights are Mike Perez (vocals), Martin Alcedo (the drums the drums the drums!, vocals), Daniel Garrow (guitar, vocals), Anthony “Tron” Laur (guitar). Their self-titled, self-produced EP is out on December 3 through Pure Noise Records.
Are you experiencing domestic abuse? In England, Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247. In Scotland, Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline 0800 027 1234. In Northern Ireland, Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline 0808 802 1414. Wales, Live Fear Free, 0808 80 10 800. UK wide, to contact the Men’s Advice Line it’s 0808 801 0327.