SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: BAD BRAINS – I AGAINST I

BAD BRAINS
I AGAINST I
BAD BRAINS RECORDS

As a part of their ongoing remaster campaign, Bad Brains have reissued I Against I. Originally released in 1986, I Against I was the third studio album from the band and saw Bad Brains expand beyond the punk and reggae influences of its predecessors in favour an alternative hard rock tone, ultimately foreshadowing what was to come from the next decade.

I Against I opens on a damn near menacing note with the instrumental “Intro” and song that lives up to its namesake, but very well could have been its own song, driven by wailing guitars and doomy riffs. The title track picks up from where “Intro” ends with one of the strongest songs on the record. “I Against I” seamlessly bridges Bad Brains unique approach to punk with a sound more rooted in the alternative hard rock of the day. There is something akin to Faith No More in this song – the blend of high-octane energy, a relentless pace paired with a rapid-fire lyrical flow alongside chugging, palm muted riffs weaving melodies.

Over the course of 31 minutes, Bad Brains are relentless, refusing even a moment of respite throughout the 10 tracks. While there are very little reggae elements to be found on I Against I – an element that otherwise remains central and synonymous to the Bad Brains sound – the band excels as a hard rock outfit. Songs like “House Of Suffering” and “Re-Ignition” continue to build off the title track with punishing riffs and melodic, almost new wave inspired vocals while “Secret 77” embraces a more spacious and alternative vibe. Additional highlights include “She’s Calling You” and “Return To Heaven”.

Bad Brains’ I Against I remains a punk classic that sees the hardcore originators adopt a more modern tone that would prove to be wildly influential for the oncoming alternative rock wave of the fast approaching ‘90s. As the album goes, it may not be their most recognisable or versatile body of work; however, I Against I stands as a pivotal moment for bad Brains and continues to demonstrate their relevance beyond punk rock, even as it approaches its 40th anniversary.

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