Spellbreakers - Revolution (Bonafi Records)

Kingston Echo explains: "The link between punk and reggae has shaped us deeply, and the DIY ethos of punk is embedded in our collective. We do everything ourselves, from writing songs and producing to running a label and creating our own artwork. The cover design Kevin and Juli created for 'Revolution' gives the record a subtle punk aesthetic while also reflecting the journey we've made as a band."

Lyrically, Spellbreakers take on the global crises we're currently facing: from the steady rise of right-wing populism ('False Leaders'), to governments exploiting these crises to push through anti-social policies or funnel even more wealth to the ultra-rich ('Long Haul'), to the ever-louder drums of war ('War Be Done', the deejay version of 'Shadows', and the only track on 'Revolution' to feature Missing Link on vocals).

Kingston Echo adds: "The ultra-liberal capitalist system shaping our global economy is pushing the planet to its limits, and only systemic change seems to offer a way out."

Kingston Echo (Steve Michiels) is also a member of Steve Leon & the Accusations, and that band's indie twang briefly resurfaces in the guitar intro of title track 'Revolution'. Even more so than on previous releases, it's once again Kingston Echo's superior dub work that really stands out here.

The message is clear: time for 'Revolution'!

Spellbreakers will present 'Revolution' live on Sunday, May 17 at the Antwerp Reggae Festival at Fort Merksem.