Band: Sister
Album: Hated
Release year: 2011
Genre: Punk Rock
Sweden is known, musically, for two things: Pop and death metal. However, there is a strong punk rock scene growing in the depths of Sweden and “Sister” are one of the pioneers, with their recent release “Hated”.
The short-lived “Radioactive Misery” is the first track of the album, composed of a distorted guitar section and various sound effects. “Body Blow” comes next, beginning with a violent riff. The vocals are strong and bloodthirsty, adding that hint of raw energy to the track. The drum work is acute and the riffs are sheer brilliance. The third track “Bullshit & Backstabbing”, begins in a similar to the previous track with a rough and raw riff, though the intro riff is more heavier and aggressive – The way punk rock should be. The vocals keep the track interesting, whilst the riffs are most impressive.
The title track, ”Hated”, blasts its way next with a ferocious intro. The track seems lighter compared to the previous tracks, which is a little bit disappointing, though the drums are well-played and in time. The guitar solo, however, makes up for the lightness of the track. “Motherfuckers (Like You)” begins with a merciless riff, which increases in tempo and aggression with the introduction of the drums. The vocals sound like a rough form of pop-punk vocals, which takes away the rough energy of the track slightly. Next is “Werewolves On Blackstreet”, beginning with an in-your-face, take no prisoners styled riff. The vocals have improved since the previous track and the drums seem more acute. This is certainly one of the best tracks on the album.
”Spit On Me” has a brilliant slow-paced riff to start with which transforms into something more technical and fast paced. The vocals have more of a hardcore sound to them which gives the track extra edge. “The Unlucky Minority” seems to have more an old-skool punk feel, especially in terms of the vocals and drums. The guitar sections aren’t as aggressive as they could be. The last three tracks, “Would You Love A Creature”, “Too Bad For You” and “Drag Me To The Grave” are brilliant tracks, showing the full abilities and skills of the band, though “Would You Love A Creature” would have to be the best of the last three tracks due to its emotional atmosphere and use of acoustic guitar and piano.
”Hated” is one of the best albums to be released in the punk rock scene since the glory days of bands like UK Subs and Anti-Nowhere League. The vast majority of the album contains the raw, aggressive, middle finger in the air kind of energy one expects to find in punk music. Great things are clearly on the horizon for “Sister”.
4/5
Nico Davidson
Valkyrian Music 