Powerful and progressive Puerto Rican Punk rock.
12/14/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In the honored tradition of political punk bands of the past, such as the Dead Kennedys and Crass, Ricanstruction has come to rescue punk from its captivity in suburban malls. Brandishing powerful and progressive lyrics that confront politically and socially relevent issues (non of that government bad, people good mumbo jumbo for these radical rockers), Ricanstruction is not afraid to tell it like it is. Poverty, political prisoners, holy war and revolution are just some of the topics Ricanstruction attacks and disects on this 13 song disc (the 13th song is an incredible unlisted cover of Bob Marley's War). Interestingly, Ricanstruction is able to discuss these subjects in a way that is not only exciting but also quite enlightening. And less you think politics is all these Puerto Punks are about, the music is actually as overpowering as the message. Radical rock mutates into subversive Salsa which fuses finely with anarchic avante Jazz. Yes, this music must be heard to be believed. Given Ricanstructions dangerous stance, they probably won't get the exposure of say, Puff Daddy... But they should definitely be heard. There ain't nothin' Puffy about these Punks."
Rage against Colonialism
Elderbear | Loma Linda, Aztlan | 05/16/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Like Rage against the Machine? You'll probably enjoy Ricanstruction, too. The emblem on Liberation Day is the Machetero symbol, a Puerto Rican liberation group, seeking to sever the neo-colonial ties with El Norte, the United States.This revolutionary call to resist the oppressive forces of racism, capitalism, colonialism, and sexism, comes on loud and strong. Were it not for the First Amendment of the Constitution, these guys would all be hanging fom their necks. Some find it ironic that they wish to tear down the system that grants them the freedom to criticize it. I would remind those naysayers that it's scarcely been 100 years since we hung anarchists for labor organizing, it's been less than 50 since being a member of the wrong party could get you blacklisted, and Mumia abu Jamal and Leonard Peltier still rot in jails.If dissent is not voiced, society hardens, like arteries, and we lose our heart. This hard driving music, creative fusions of rock, rap & latin elements keeps the beat going. Effective dissent, driving powerful riffs & rhythms, what better way to keep democracy alive. Wake up! Listen to the music, justice delayed is justice denied.5 stars for poetry, 5 stars for message, 5 stars for music, & 5 stars for having the cojones to produce such a revolutionary piece of work. Liberation Day is coming ... which side will you be on?"
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1