Album Review: Batpiss - Nuclear Winter

Melbourne-based trio Batpiss have punched out quite a name for themselves in their short career, having scored coveted support gigs for punk legends such as The Bronx and OFF! in recent times, and now they come to us with their highly anticipated debut album, Nuclear Winter.

Seed kicks things off with bold and energetic force, acting as an apt indication of the general tone of the record – screaming vocals and intricate guitar work, with unexpected twists in regards to song structure. Drag Your Body brings an appropriately dark and droney vibe through slurring guitar contributions, proving that these guys know how to convey their message musically as well as lyrically; a fact which is also demonstrated in Come Here And Fuck Off – song title of the year hands down – which is short, sharp, and feels like a slap in the face. Burn Below takes its foot off the gas a bit, acting as a welcome change to the previously hard-hitting tracks. Halfway through the song the pace winds right down, creating this gothic and sludgey feel, before it winds back up to double speed, causing chaos and frenzy; it's quite a trip. 

Nuclear Winter is a hell of a statement for a debut, however one can't help but feel that a bit of melodic range in the vocals (at the right moments) would have elevated the record to a whole new level. Think of hardcore outfit Pissed Jeans; they're not afraid to sing it out when the time is right, which often adds a great balance to their work. Overall though, a damn fine listen.