Blood Command are a raucous offering. Their high-energy live shows demonstrate a fresh vibrant take on rock music, and have received plaudits from both Kerrang! and Metal Hammer. The band played a small headline show at The Joiners in Southampton back in November, which really showed off their strong chemistry and proves that they’re going places. They are also supporting Skindred later this year on their European tour.
The band’s latest EP, Return of the Arsonist is huge and demonstrates how much their harmonies pack a punch. It is over in less than 20 minutes, and builds on their excellent album, Cult Drugs.
Every track charges at the listener in such a frenetic pace that it’s difficult not to get up and move. ‘S01E02 Return Of the Arsonist’ is a perfect example of this. Featuring chugging riffs and an infectious chorus, it shows how their songwriting has matured and developed into a tighter unit. ‘Live Right Or Go Straight to Hell’ incorporates a gnarly upbeat riff that raises excitement in the listener.
The final track, ‘Afraid Of Water’ is a summary of what makes Blood Command so appealing. Stunning harmonies, Simon Oliver Økland’s bass very high in the mix, and Karina Ljone’s barking vocals bringing out the band’s punk spirit. Every track is a winner and it’s so hard to pick a favourite. Listening to it gives off a sense of excitement about how far this band can go.
Words by Ermis Madikopoulos