Reviewed by Ian Webber

Although this 17 track release has a classic '90s punk feel to it, it is truly a melting pot of various influences and sounds. Elements of hardcore to gutter punk oi songs bring to mind the likes of Minor Threat and One Bad Pig. Production also harks back to a bygone era and could even pass for DIY. At times the recording has the feel that Unshackled is playing in a cardboard box. The majority of the tracks here lean towards a ferocious pace and showcase visceral vocals that consist of shouts, screams, shrieks and grumbles. There are tracks that stand out such as "Jesus Is Punk Rock" and "Ego" which are driven by blistering drumming along with the rapid "Human Decay" and its memorable chorus. In the same way as their music is uncompromising, Unshackled are forthright in their faith, never skirting difficult issues. I did however feel that at times the lyrics were over simplistic. These rockers from El Paso, Texas have produced a promising collection of songs, but there are too many tracks of lesser quality that meld together to make this a standout recording.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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