Live By The Sword - S/T 12"

Rebellion Records

 

It was 2016 when the then newly formed outfit Live By The Sword stirred shit up with two killer singles that instantly blew me away! 2017 slowly passed by without a new release, but this was just silence before the storm... because now the Dutch-American war machine is back – bigger, bolder and stronger than ever before!

 

Rockin’ against posers and fakes, Live By The Sword bursts out six brand new originals and an excellent take on The Bruisers’ classic anthem “Intimidation”. First up is “Live By The Sword” though! Not to be confused with the “L.B.T.S.” track off the band’s debut 7”, this two-minute stomper – that you could consider as some sort of intro – immediately raises your aggravation-level to its maximum, getting you combat ready for what has to come!

 

Because this isn’t your happy, generic Oi! Oi! bullshit – no. This is dark, vile and tough as nails skinhead rock only a select company of bands manages to produce. Obviously due to Live By The Sword’s music, though Erick Barnes’ superb vocals – that fully comes to life in the remaining six songs – takes great responsibility into the band’s dangerous, hateful sound  as well, as demonstrated on ten ton hammers like “Whatever It Takes”, “Jealousy” and “Attack! Attack!”.

 

However, my two favorites are without a doubt “Rats And Snakes” and “Death Dawn Rising”. The first because of its infectious lyrics and the latter because of its exceptional lyrics, chorus and song-structure – what a way to end your album, pure brilliance if you ask me! Not only did these two anthems quickly became my favorite Live By The Sword-tracks, I wouldn’t be surprised if both of them ended up in my general list of favorite songs of 2018 – outstanding!

 

Only available on black, 180 gram vinyl – rotating at a speed of 45RPM, this record doesn’t just feel, but plays like a rock as well! The ultra-heavy, casewrapped jacket (with glossy lamination) and extra poster will make every cent you spend on this record more than worth it – an absolute must-have!