Review / 200 Words Or Less
Rata Negra
Oido Absoluto LP

La Vida Es Un Mus Discos Punk (2017) Nathan G. O'Brien

Rata Negra – Oido Absoluto LP cover artwork
Rata Negra – Oido Absoluto LP — La Vida Es Un Mus Discos Punk, 2017

This is some killer punk out of Madrid, Spain on that throwback tip. If you had told me this was some recently excavated ‘80s gem getting the reissue treatment I’d have no reason not to believe you. Even the band photo used on the cover—which itself looks like it was clipped from an old photocopied zine kicking around your dad’s attic—looks like three loonies making the scene in ’82 or something.

Alluring, moody melodies float atop post-punk-informed instrumentation. A lot of stuff like has gained traction of over the last five years or so, and for good reason. The vocalist is the glue that ties this trio together. Her delivery isn’t abrasive, rather tuneful, but in a way that is still undeniably punk. This reminds a little of that that La Misma record from a couple years back (also on La Vida, go figure), albeit less aggressive.

There’s a handful of quick, to-the-point numbers here, but the longer songs—those that surpass the 2:00 minute mark—where they allow themselves some wiggle room, are the standouts. See “Por No Estar Sola” and “Viviremos Eternamente” for example. The latter of which makes me think of the Nic Cage movie Valley Girl, but for reasons that aren’t quite clear.

Rata Negra – Oido Absoluto LP cover artwork
Rata Negra – Oido Absoluto LP — La Vida Es Un Mus Discos Punk, 2017

Recently-posted album reviews

Between the Buried and Me

The Blue Nowhere
Inside Out (2025)

Between The Buried And Me are seasoned vets to the progressive metalcore, electronic, prog (whatever other genre they bend) scene and continue to drop album after album. Their career started back in 2000 from the ashes of one of the greatest metalcore bands of all time (in my humble opinion), Prayer For Cleansing. As the band has progressed over the … Read more

The Beths

Straight Line Was A Lie
Anti (2025)

Dear Beths, Congratulations on the new release. I’ve been reflecting on our relationship and, as I’ve recently started to write about music again, have been asked to share my thoughts with you. First and foremost, I want to say that this isn’t easy for me. I cherish your album Future Me Hates Me from 2018. The title track alone is … Read more

East End Redemption

Crashing Down
Independent (2025)

Who would’ve thought that from the land of lobsters and blueberries, you’d find a punk band? East End Redemption is a four-piece band that brings their flavor of punk from Portland, Maine to the masses with their eleven song, debut full-length album, Crashing Down. They mix elements of skate punk, power pop, and even hints of hardcore punk. The band … Read more