I don’t know anything about Bricheros beyond what’s in the press sheet. Which has quite a bit of info, really, but in the spirit of due diligence, let’s just say I want a little more. The band plays Panic Button Records-style Ramones-core with a strong dose of Screeching Weasel. In fact, they cover both of those bands on side B. It’s hyper melodic and easy to singalong to, even on first listen – and that’s not counting the whoa-ohs that kick it up a notch.
Live at Hensley was recorded at Bar Hensley in Lima, Peru. The group is based between their native Peru, Colorado, and California. The record is pressed on 10” vinyl and has 11 songs in total. At least two are covers. A few more feel like it, which is frankly just a knock on this style of pop-punk (which I generally enjoy in a live setting, so this record seems perfectly in tune to my tastes). As a live record, it’s a strong recording that skips the banter and focuses on the music. You occasionally hear some singing along in the background and such, but it’s generally crisp, clean, and energetic but not quite as clear as a studio record. Based on this record alone, they’re strong live, without sloppy elements or offkey turns.
“Bricheros Stomp” is one of the better and more original tracks on the record, with a mostly instrumental take that builds up nicely. It hits the genre tropes but with unique flourishes. Later, “First Time” seems well intentioned but comes off kind of creepy. “Bad Hombres,” which closes it out, is a peppy little number that doubles as a middle finger to Drumpf and ends on a high note. It starts fairly strong, albeit predictably, but it loses its way when the record flips. Maybe they have a covers EP or something, but considering that their style of music is already a tribute, I’m not sure the covers are necessary and I don’t see a reason to talk about Screeching Weasel in 2021 at all. Live at Hensley features downstroke, verse-chorus-verse, pogo punk that fits the playbook perfectly…maybe too perfectly.
