Attention all Big Black and Naked Raygun fans
Dave Hidebound | California | 06/25/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Arsenal was a project that incredible Naked Raygun/Big Black guitarist Santiago Durango formed in the late '80s. He only recorded two EPs (both combined on this 31 minute CD) before he broke up the band and concentrated solely on being a lawyer for Touch and Go, Steve Albini, and others. Both EPs are important post-hardcore records that show why Durango's one of the most important participants in the indie/noise-rock underground.If you worship Big Black, then you will be in utter disbelief (in a good way) when you hear the track "Little Hitlers." It's so incredible, you won't believe that it's not a Steve Albini track. Distorted vocals, razor-sharp guitar, mind-nulling bass, and the trademark human-sounding programmed drumming. "When Heads Collide" is another sign that Durango had an even larger part in The Big Black Sound than most give him credit for. The other tracks are solid and honorable.If you find post-hardcore to be an essential element to life, then you'll enjoy what's on this challenging CD. It's a cool album that fans of Big Black or similar groups like the Jesus Lizard should love. It's too bad Touch and Go let this overlooked release go out of print. (Maybe they're upset with Durango for not winning the BHS case.) If you find this CD, pick it up quickly and count yourself lucky."