With ‘Out Of The Void’, Los Pepes presents another exhilarating display of raw energy and melodic punk that reaffirms their standing as one of Europe’s most dynamic garage punk bands. The international group's fifth studio album since 2019 offers an exciting journey through catchy hooks, sharp riffs, and sincere lyrics that linger.
The London-based quintet, whose members come from the UK, Japan, Brazil, and Poland, has been active since 2013, consistently demonstrating their commitment to the DIY ethos from the start. Since their formation, the band has taken pride in self-recording and releasing their music, as well as creating their captivating album artwork and visual styles.
Released on April 25th, a date symbolizing the fall of fascist regimes in Italian and Portuguese history, Ben Perrier’s lyrics on this 12-track LP provide an assertive and honest commentary on various socio-political issues. Musically, ‘Out Of The Void’ combines their distinctive 60s/70s punk-pop style with a heavier intensity, evoking an image of The Boys colliding with early Black Flag.
The nihilistic opening track ‘Thoughtless Boys’ sets a clear tone for what follows. Released in February as the album's lead single, the song charges through a melody-rich soundscape filled with reverb-heavy guitar riffs. Its music video features an animation inspired by Raymond Pettibone of the “thoughtless boy,” animated by Perrier himself.
In ‘New Christians’, the band takes aim at religious conservatives, deceitful politicians, and fear-mongering Nazis within the first minute and a quarter, tied together by a chorus featuring the biting line “you keep the faith but you take everything.” With unapologetically punk lyrics, the sound cleverly incorporates various influences from decades of music that convey a similar anarchic attitude. This sentiment is reinforced in tracks like ‘Future History’ and ‘Undercover’.
The mood shifts on ‘All I Got Is Time’, a slower song that addresses unkind love, featuring a welcomed soaring organ line, beautifully complemented by thoughtful harmonies. As the song progresses, it transcends into an ethereal soundscape that highlights the band’s appreciation for late 60s psychedelia.
‘Out Of The Void’ stands as a powerful testament to Los Pepes’ steadfast commitment to merging sharp political insights with infectious punk energy. The album’s seamless blend of classic punk-pop melodies and hardcore intensity highlights the band’s evolution while remaining true to their DIY roots. With witty and thought-provoking lyrics and arrangements that are both dynamic and captivating, Los Pepes deliver a record that challenges, energizes, and resonates long after the final chord fades.
8/10
Words: Finlay Harrison
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With "Out Of The Void," Los Pepes offer another thrilling surge of untamed energy and melodic punk strength that solidifies their position as one