REVIEW: Various Artists, Never Give In - A Tribute to Bad
Brains
- Andrew Duncan
Maybe not the most anticipated album of the year, this homage to one of the greatest punk bands is certainly one of the better tributes on the market. The niche is naturally those who love Bad Brains, especially hardcore fans who love Bad Brains (who cares if Moby starts off the CD with a version of "Sailin' On," displaying one of the most depressing-sounding songs since Morrisey mopped around with The Smiths).
Within five minutes, Ignite acknowledges the classic "Pay To Cum" and rips through an impressive version. Boy Sets Fire also pays tribute to Bad Brain's most popular song "I Against I," and succeeds.
Some bands concentrate on Brains' more recent work. Entombed cover "Yout' Juice" and sound more like they are covering a Monster Magnet song. Sepultura take on a speed version of "Gene Machine/Don't Bother Me," and Vision of Disorder scream through "Soulcraft."
Overall, there is a pleasing consistency, with each band paying the highest regards to an influential band. The only disappointment with this tribute is the lack of coverage with their reggae tunes, an equally important part of the band. What other hardcore band in the early '80s was playing traditional reggae songs?
