Reviewed by Ian Webber

Hailing from Sao Paulo, Brazil, this punk outfit have been around in various guises since 2005. With the passing of years they have dabbled in hardcore, metal and pop punk, but with this release on Thumperpunk Records they return to harder drums, aggressive guitars and gang vocals. Opening with a swirling wind, "Eternal Love" is an accessible track that blends a catchy melodic chorus with hardcore verses. There is also a delicious, hard-edged bass line that pushes proceedings along. Full on circle-pit energy is evident in abundance on "07×70×07" as guitars riff at light speed over incessant drumming. A more nu-metal, rapcore feel influences the "Sem Meias Verdades" where Luis Carlos raps in Portuguese over a rhythmical guitar part. The added wahwah peddle gives this a nostalgic feel. Throughout the recording, an authentic energy is maintained through some crisp production that has been left unpolished. The skills of the musicians shine through with the variety that is on offer, but particularly impressive are the funky basslines that underpin the tracks. 'The Flame Still Burns' sees Living Fire threaten to produce a highly commercial sound before pulling things back and adding an aggressive hardcore edge. With influences from POD to traditional New York hardcore acts like Biohazard this is an album that will find many appreciative listeners.

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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