Spain’s Balcanes tread a glorious path through noisy rock with a sound that is as filthy as it is consuming. Although minimally done, Balcanes still force through masses of power by using painful feedback and deep, rumbling bass to create strong textures in their work. Carne Nueva is only a taste of what the band are capable of and on this EP Balcanes work with repeated sounds to burrow under the skin.
“Combustible” is the first proper track (the first is more of an introduction that swells with squalling guitars) and the band set out their stall easily. All repeated lines and almost monotonous vocals; the track fills its time with stirring guitars and clashing rhythms. It’s reminiscent of 70s punk but following song “Masada” gives a modern and somewhat sludgy feel to proceedings with down-tuned strikes and doomy progressions. It’s a change of pace that doesn’t feel out of turn but instead showcases a more restrained edge to the band.
Carne Nueva is an unforgiving work that uses the quiet/loud dynamic to great effect. Balcanes might not be a name on the tip of every tongue, but those who enjoy noise will find much to like here.
