Distance has no relevance when you have passion for what you do. From two different continents, Dispraised brings you their second full-length album called “Lines in the Dirt”.
Dispraised are made of Donovan de Necker (guitar), Tom Mong (vocals), and Justin Ram (drums).
Donovan and Tom have been working together since 2017 with Donovan in South Africa and Tom in Idaho, USA. In 2020 they brought in Justin on the drums from Kentucky, USA. With a rich history between them all saturated with the Christian rock and punk scene, they have put their beliefs and musical preferences into this project. They have brought about something that will make you reminiscent of the early punk material like Black Flag.
At a little under 17 minutes, this album brings rushes in with the energy of a moshpit in full swing. When it starts up then they set the pace from the first note and the track title called “No King but Christ” leaves you in little doubt about what the band is about. In a world fraught with greed, corruption and being in general array these guys feel that finding your way through a higher power is a much better option.
From a base on scripture, their lyrics highlight a flawed society generating a thought-provoking review of society with the DGAF anger that punk music carries. The lyrics are delivered largely in a similar manner leaving little variety and are a touch too dominant over the music making it somewhat one-dimensional.
The drums provide a solid base with whirls and swirls here and there. Various styles of guitar colour up the songs. Within in the first track, we have an interesting set that sounds a bit like a Scottish bagpipe. Natural harmonics and palm muting abound. The intro to “Jab” carries this flag well. Single notes that ring out here and there flanked by the bass which makes its presence known in proportionate amounts providing some flare and contour when needed such as the intro to “Social Disease” and “Cyber Slave”.
Their sound is invigorating channelling their inner angst and broadcasting it with the neo-classical punk sound. It is a rather short album though but will set off the charges under your ass.
Tracklist:
1. No King but Christ
2. Silent Voices
3. Jab
4. Social Disease
5. Cyber Slave
6. The Masses
7. Set to Self-destruct
8. Amongst The Swine
Dispraised: Facebook
Release Year: 2022
Label: Rottweiler Records
Category: Album
Country: USA/South Africa
Reviewed by Byron Lotz
