Grade 2 / Saints & Sinners - Die With Out Boots On

Contra Records

 

The “Die With Out Boots On” 7” is the latest split EP coming out (tomorrow, 29 May, 2015) on Contra Records. On this slab of wax Grade 2 from the UK and Saints & Sinners from the Czech Republic, still rather new bands to the scene, present two brand new tracks of new-generation-Oi! each. Both the British youngsters as well as the sinners from Prague impressed with their previous release(s), so it only seems logical that this connection will turn this black, blue or red clear colored piece of vinyl into gold.

 

Up first are Ryde’s (Isle Wight, UK) one, and most likely only, Oi! band Grade 2. These underaged skins and bootboys instantly left their mark on the scene with last year’s debut EP “Broken Youth”. Not per se the best release of 2014, but the youthful energy was refreshing, promising and similar to a band such as The Young Ones in their days. On this EP the band brings “Nothing To Lose” and “Till The End” and straight from the start you hear the band has grown since their last record. Powerful anthems, great guitar work and melodic choruses influenced by a band such as Lion’s Law with a British twist, making sure they don’t forget their roots.

 

On the flipside there’s Czech Oi! band Saints & Sinners, for their first time appearance on both a split EP and a release for Contra Records. Without a doubt the best not-so-kept secret from eastern Europe with their great releases for KB Records in the past few years. Opener “Alcoholic Anthem”, featuring Tim Steinfort of Discharger, directly sets the tone and is without the best track on this slab of wax, mostly because of Tim’s fantastic voice and guitar work. But also without any help Saints & Sinners stand their ground, making “For Cowards” a song full of power with a great riff and a strong sing-along.

 

Great EP from both ends!