Propagandhi – Supporting Caste

Propagandhi has never been the type of band that has had to hide behind metaphors and clever play on word lyrics. Like bands of old – The Clash and Bad Brains – they speak out against unpopular issues with their own brand of tact and intelligence. “Supporting Caste” is Propagandhi’s first return to the music scene in 4 years since 2005’s Potemkin City Limits. During this time they have added a new guitar player affectionately referred to as The Beave (although his real name is David Guillas). With the addition of The Beave, Propagandhi’s sound has taken yet another turn for the good. You can really tell that they have improved in their musicianship with a fresh set of ears and ideas plugging into the punk juggernaut machine that is Propagandhi.

Lyrically, the band doesn’t try to get to tread new territory, so if you’re not a fan of in your face political or social commentary then don’t even bother picking up this record. Reading through any ofPropagandhi’s lyrics is like reading through a book of politics and provides a unique insight into the inner workings of a logical and brilliant mind. Supporting Caste seems to take a little bit more of a melodic turn then the previous two records except for a few songs that are just straight up kind of thrash punk (Night Letters, This is Your Life, and Incalculable Effects)

All the tracks on Supporting Caste are strong both lyrically and musically. The only track I don’t care for to much is Last Will and Testament. It’s not even that it’s a weak track it is just that the intro is a little too much instrumental for me. I can appreciate musical talent when I hear it but I like lyrics to go along with it as well; especially when they are thought provoking and intelligent. The song does have lyrics but it kind of gets to lost on me with the long intro.

All in all this seems like a logical step for Propagandhi to take from the last album. If you’re a fan of their past efforts (Todays Empires Tomorrows Ashes, Potemkin City Limits) you will instantly fall in love with this album. It is intelligent, though provoking, well articulated (unlike this review) and honestly the level of musician ship will melt your face off.