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Union 13:
Symptoms of Humanity
This is exactly what the punk revival movement has desperately needed since it became safe to parade around in a Sex Pistols t-shirt once again. On this fourth album from East L.A. beloved rabble-rousers Union 13, the band branches away from their unapologetic musical tributes to Bad Religion in an effort to journey into a realm which they have been fine-tuning for over ten years now. What this record attempts in terms of diversity is at least impressive. They take themselves seriously, so you are not left wondering if they are just another campy Latino rock ensemble. There is something for everyone here at least everyone who is willing to give them a chance. For those who have given up altogether in search of a decent punk-inspired record, look no further, because you couldn't find a truer band to bring it to you. Throughout this album, Union 13 continues in their quest to expose the U.S. as anything but "united." They certainly give nods to their influences (Bad Religion, Minor Threat) but what they bring to the table in terms of ethnic strife and disenchantment is remarkable. There are moments on the album that are reminiscent of Inside Out and System of a Down, but this record's sound achieves originality that very few accomplish. The standout track here is "Going Through This," because this song proves highly effective with its pseudo-classic Epitaph sound, complete with whoa's et al., yet with a very distinct message. Instead of coming across as apathetic, bratty kids wishing to be punk, they show that they suffer on their own terms, meaning that they see a glimmer of hope when it is said, "just wait for the light at the end." The next track, "Too Late," is sort of a nod to Operation Ivy and the heyday of the Gilman Street bands such as Redemption 87. There are definitely some lyrics that I just can't understand, but that's only because I can't speak Spanish. Nevertheless, this album is important not only because it's a novelty to have a Latino punk band. It is important because it's gritty and honest without alienating anyone, except perhaps Donald Rumsfeld and George W. Bush.
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