Not a new band, Brazilian Uganga (Swahili for "sorcery") released their fourth full-length album in 2014. It took three years to be internationally available via Defense Records. Well, the album deserves any attention it can get.

Despite their name Uganga and the fact that vocalist Manu Joker played drums in Sarcófago back from 1989 to 1991, they do not perform black metal. They deliver very streetwise thrash metal with heavy hardcore trait, as well as more laid-back rock attitude. And avoids going into nu-metal "jump-da-fukk-up" territory, thankfully, unlike many well-known Brazilian bands... Okay, there are some similarities with more punk-edged song of Sepultura and Soulfly, and Max Cavalera's Nailbomb project (try 'Moleque de Pedra' for that). Then again, older Suicidal Tendencies stuff ain't a bad comparison. 'O Campo' and 'Guerreiro', and generally whenever the band decided to go into more rocking gear, have some Corrosion Of Conformity style sludge rock in them. 'Nas Entranhas do Sol' has a definiteve Pantera groove to it. The album is a rather varying entity.

There are three short interludes, with some "voodoo" rhythm, radio broadcast and ambient sounds. I find them useless, simple as that, as they break the flow of the album. Vulcano's 'Who Are the True?' cover on the other hand is a good extra. It omits the original's cavernous atmosphere, but is a tad faster and thrashier. Awesome songs, both the cover and the original.

Tight riffing is accompanied by groovier playing, and even acoustic guitar is utilized on the closing track. Lead guitar work is limited to soloing. And wah-pedal is often used, reminding of nobody else than Metallica's Kirk Hammett. The drumbeats vary from fast thrashing to punky ones and diverse rock rhythms. Performances are good all around.

The vocals are shouted and screamed with pretty commanding voice. It reminds me about Brujeria, even though the language is Portuguese here, of course. The booklet doeds not include any lyrics, but English liner notes for each track can be found. Some sung backing vocals are also heard, as well as obligatory gang vocals.

The album sounds clear, so even the smaller details are finely exposed. The drums sound rather hefty, but guitars miss some bite for sure. It has very organic vibe overall. So, if crossover is your thing, then Uganga and 'Opressor' are worth checking out. This is not among roughest of platters, but still packed with energy. And cool songs with messages.

Rating: 7+ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
07/15/2018 20:04