Greek d-beaters Sarabante were one of the lucky few chosen by Southern Lord around this time last year to have their album re-released by the label when they were scooping up some quality hardcore and crust acts like Alpinist, Planks and Drainland for limited run CD releases. Some of the bands that got the Southern Lord treatment outshined others and some were left not getting quite the same attention. Sarabante are one of those bands that didn’t get as much attention, which is a crying shame considering how good this album is.
Not reinventing the wheel by any means, “Remnants” is rather an impressive flurry of the d-beat hallmarks, accentuated by a stellar production job that gives much of the band’s melody all the attention it needs. The concise tracks like “Blindfold” stands up as evidence as clean guitars dominate while their vocalist continues his fierce, throat defiling vocals. The title track’s opening conjures up huge melodic riffs while the bass is ridden with a filthy tone and captures the dichotomy of this band, throwing heavy melody and unpolished aggression into one melting pot.
“Remnants” is an album whose writing, recording and eventual release was stalled for a few years due to the band’s line-up changes but finally some stability found its way into the Sarabante camp and it’s hard to think that “Remnants” is the band’s first album. The record is executed with the precision and skill of well-seasoned soldiers. The end result is that this is just good d-beat – plain and simple.
No plans seem to be afoot just yet regarding a follow-up release but hopefully it is sooner rather than later. This band has a whole wave of potential behind them. More please.
The CD release of “Remnants” is still available from Southern Lord while the LP is available directly from the band at their Bandcamp page.
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