Reviewed by Andy Long

Cross Rhythms named Dub War as the best unsigned band at Greenbelt this year and from listening to this it has to be said that they are one of the most exciting new British bands that I have come across for years. How do you go about describing the sound of a band that is a cocktail of punk, metal, reggae, funk, rap, rock, hardcore, etc, etc, a band that opens its live show with an air raid siren for Pete's sake! It has been christened thrash ragga or, more catchily, 'thragga'. Although negotiations are currently under way with a major label, Dub War chose to release this one-off EP with Words Of Warning, so as to get some material out now. The opening track sounds something like Living Colour at their meatiest (oh, they'll hate me for saying that!) but with 10 times the commitment and energy, the choppy riffs of distorted guitar take a sudden dive into a hyperdrive mosh with tortured lead work and a wicked sneer from the dread-head vocalist. "Nar Say A Ting" opens with a bellowed vocal sample and yet more mercilessly strangled guitar whilst that unstoppable singer yells "D U B W A R, that's who we are!". Sure, like you were gonna forget! "Over Now" is driven by a guttural bass hook, whilst crash chords stab you in the belly. "Dub Over Now" is loosely based on the above, but kicks off with a doctored ska sample and has loads of echo on all the instruments, degenerating into a riotous cacophony. The lyrics, where they can be picked up, are strongly political, anti-oppression, anti-racism, powerful stuff. Look out for these boys, they're gonna be big, very big, and remember, you heard it here first.

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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