PaGaN

Black Wash

HASSLE Melbourne debutants make a vivid, punk rock splash Black Wash is the official debut from this rock’n’rollin’ quartet, and suffice to say these Aussies know how to craft blackened riff-addled tunes of the heaviest order. Focusing on societal ills and the tribulations life throws up, the Pagan manifesto ultimately revolves around each bandmember’s struggle and escape from proverbial hell through unbridled sonic unity. All 11 “spells” are awash with a sound that is as brutal as it is beautifully delicate. Against a backdrop of monolithic fury and meticulous songcraft, vocalist Nikki Brumen deftly weaves between tortured howls and searing emotion. Homage is lovingly paid to their punk rock roots (The Greatest Love Songs) while the neon-soaked stomp of Year Of The Dog and rebellious back-alley jam Silver are to be celebrated. It’s a promising insight into a band who will no doubt make for a euphoric live experience. FOR FANS OF: MARMOZETS, TURBONEGRO, REFUSED