Sandmine EP

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(Hed)P.E. is one of those groups which are creative and cursed in equal measure. They have seen other bands steal their thunder and leave them only scraps. Often it's all about timing (or a simple stroke of luck). Drawing from rap and metal as well as reggae, and developing a tense and angry punk-hardcore sound, this band has forged an identity that's all their own. They have never let up, releasing no fewer than twelve studio albums in 23 years. Their tenacity demands respect. They were born in the middle of the nu-metal wave but often overlooked in favour of bands like Limp Bizkit or Linkin Park, who were more accessible and less radical in their attitude and their lyrics.

The gang from Huntington Beach opted for an EP format to concentrate their powers and get right down to the essentials. This was a wise choice: in just five punchy tracks, this short record takes us on a real stylistic journey. From the hardcore False Prophet that will delight Biohazard fans to Deathtrip with more of a punk edge, (Hed)P.E. shows affection for Jamaican rhythms on the beginning of the rowdy, melodic Let Me Know. Then there is the biggest song of the lot, which lends its title to the whole release. Sandmine could be the work of Refused (the clean guitar on the verses evokes New Noise) or of Skindred (with its chorus packing both metal and borderline ragga sounds). This track offers a superb summary of the group's inventive and powerful talents. We'd like to hear more. No matter the length of the record. A release like this can be listened to several times in a row while you wait to get stuck into a real album. This is a little foretaste that deserves playing on repeat. © Chief Brody/Qobuz