Greece's
Velocity aren't just a hardcore band, they're hardcore -- period! Although mostly reminiscent of New York acts like
Agnostic Front and
Madball, their music also smacks of good old punk rock and Oi!, making them nothing if not, err, hardcore. But we already mentioned that. Along with the vast array of tattoos and battle scars attained over nearly two decades in punk music's service (it's safe to say that most of the band has been around the bend more than a few times), the fact that
Velocity also sing almost exclusively in their native Greek should not be overlooked. At once a nod to their streetwise credentials, and a "f*ck you" to bigger commercial aspirations, this unspoken ban is only lifted for a few select numbers like "Fight Them," "Viva la Aggression," and "Freedom"; but chances are, you won't even notice the difference given the muddy, rabid dog vocal delivery on hand. There's virtually zero originality to be found here, but hardcore attitude by the gallon, if that's what you seek. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia