Refused - War Music

Label: Spinefarm Records

Released: 18th October 2019

Rating: ★★★

Given the state of the planet right now - both ecologically and politically - it’s hard to imagine a more fitting point for Refused to emerge with a new record.

2015’s comeback album ‘Freedom’ was born of time in the studio - that period post their 2012 comeback but before their glorious return as a recording band proper. ‘War Music’, on the other hand, is forged in the fire of live performance. It shows.

‘Blood Red’ - the album’s clear standout - sparks with all the fire of classic Refused; huge riff, yelping vocals, a direct desire to knock the world off its axis. If we can’t save ourselves, we may as well burn it all down.