Power From Below
Creative Destruction, 2020
9/10
An outfit who are very in tune with the current social/political climate, Motihari Brigade, lead by singer/guitarist Eric Winston, brings us 8 originals and 3 covers on this high energy and very profound listen that’s self-described as ‘Bernie Sanders meets Helter Skelter’.
The title track starts the listen with bright horns and plenty of groove friendly, ska influenced rock’n’roll in the political themes, and “Talking To Crazy” follows with an anthemic quality amid the energetic delivery that’s full of riffs and insightful wordplay.
In the middle, “Hold On (Eyes On The Prize)”, popularized by Pete Seeger, tips it hat to the early days of punk rock with a soulful atmosphere, while “Power To The People” flows with a sing-along chorus in the melodic protest song that puts a reggae slant on a John Lennon song.
Some of the best tracks reside near the end, including “Buy This Product”, where a lyrically strong presence finds its way into the mature yet playful setting, and “Which Side Are You On”, the best selection, unfolds like a working class anthem. “Waiting For The Revolution” ends the listen musically diverse, where plenty of horns are in attendance as Motihari Brigade place a firm exclamation point on this substantial record.
An extremely powerful listen that captures the intensity that is often prevalent in today’s turbulent world, Motihari Brigade certainly contain a retro spirit, but are also very modern in their fiery approach. Power From Below is certainly thinking person’s music, and should be required listening in 2020.
Travels well with: Pete Seeger- Pete; The Clash- London Calling