In the interview we had with Vangelis Karzis (guitars, vocals) when the band’s previous album “Me Against You” was released two years ago, he told me that their next record would be ready in 2020. Time passed, the pandemic changed a lot, he also became a permanent member at Wolfheart, we had no news from the band, so I thought that the plans probably changed. Fortunately, I couldn’t be more wrong.
“Bare Knuckle” is the third full-length of the Athenian band and from the first seconds you realize that Full House B.C. are very serious about what they do. It’s like someone told them that they can become even heavier than “Me Against You” and they did it. Compared to the previous album, they are playing in a whole new level, without any exaggeration.
The cover is incredibly in line with what you hear on the album. It may seem simple, but listening to “Bare Knuckle” you start counting the punches that come from everywhere. From the heavyweight riffs. From the rhythm section that causes small seismic vibrations. From Vangelis’ vocals that are more aggressive and at the same time more melodic than ever. Like I said before, dead serious about what they do.
The album has ten songs with thirty-six minutes total running time. They stay on point, without tiring you up, with strategic blows where they should be. Listen for example to the opener “Cult Of Misery” that starts ready to destroy everything in its path, “Unforgiving Land” with the catchy refrain or the huge “Black Flag” that is probably the best choice as the first single.
Even the slower and more melodic songs “Buried Hope” and “Shuffled Deck” do not bring down the rhythm and flow of the album, giving awesome moments with their amazing melody. Of course, the same goes to all the songs, there are absolutely no fillers here.
In conclusion, Full House B.C. is the groove metal exactly as it should be played. So simple. Heavy and unstoppable, with an addictive mid-tempo rhythm, killer riffs, amazing melodic refrains, with great work in the composition and structure of the songs and impeccable production that makes everything sound right.
“Bare Knuckle” easily goes for one of the best releases of the year on my list. Listen to it loud and make those around you follow its rhythm. Whether they want to or not. At a time when we have to be careful about what we buy in music, supporting this band won’t disappoint you. Brew Crew Dedication!
