After a pandemic-induced hiatus, former Cro-Mags vocalist John Joseph has once again revived his Bloodclot project, a band that dates back to his days as a roadie for D.C. hardcore pioneers Bad Brains in the early ’80s. The latest incarnation of Joseph’s metalllic hardcore quartet features guitarist Tom Capone (ex-Quicksand), bassist Craig Setari (Sick Of It All) and drummer Darren Morgenthaler (ex-Madball). The resurrected unit is returning with a crusher of a track, “Souls,” from the upcoming album of the same name.
“Souls” is a passionately anti-war screed, as evidenced both Joseph’s lyrics, as well as the visuals in the video we’re premiering below. Musically it’s a Slayer-inspired hardcore rampage akin to that band’s late ’80s output, though Capone’s at-times dissonant guitar adds a post-metal tension to the track. It was produced by Laz Pina (Ill Niño) and mixed by Chris Collier. As the first single from Souls, it’s set for release via Upstate Records tomorrow, Sept. 9, and can be pre-saved here.
The full-length, which will feature six new tracks and a cover of the Bad Brains’ “How Low Can a Punk Get” will be available on Upstate on December 16 on limited edition black and white splatter vinyl, CD and on all digital streaming services.
Here’s what John Joseph had to say about the track:
“The events of the last few years really took a toll on a lot of people. I had friends relapse into addiction and sadly some who lost their fight. Thus the chorus, ‘Break away, the cosmos calling, your star’s been falling/Break away, cut the ropes that bind you, free your mind and find you.’ The track also calls out corrupt government shills who twist the truth for their own financial gain and control, creating situations which left people feeling there’s no hope. After what we witnessed go on with war after war, perpetrated behind blatant lies, it should always raise red flags when it comes to trusting them on any matter of importance.”
