positive punk: LA INQUISICION

10.17.2024

LA INQUISICION

"mundo invisible"

Year: 2024

Country: Spain

City: Barcelona

Label: HFMN

Format: CD, LP

Tracks: 10

Time: 24 min.

Genre: rock

Style: Oi!

I'm not saying it. They say it themselves. After two albums that cemented their reputation within the national punk scene, La Inquisición faces with Mundo invisible (2024) the challenge of consolidating their formula without losing the essence that has brought them here. With ten songs that maintain the intensity and social criticism that has always characterized them, this new work shows that the band has found a solid and coherent sound that, although it does not reinvent the genre, has a lot to offer.

The third album is always a challenge for any band. Expectations are high, and finding the balance between evolution and identity is not always easy. La Inquisición has chosen not to complicate their lives too much and remain faithful to their characteristic sound. Mundo invisible does not seek to revolutionize punk, but rather to consolidate what they have built so far. The ten songs flow naturally and have a direct impact that does not disappoint.

From the song that opens the album, "Mundo invisible", to the closing with "Nadie", the band maintains a constant tempo, with a bass that marks the pulse of each song. Although the album lacks explosive hooks, its cohesion is undeniable. Àlex Montoro's guitars, staying in the midrange, allow Rubén López's voice and newcomer Rau's bass to shine, reminiscent of bands like Social Distortion. This sound balance is one of the keys to the album, which stands out for its clarity and energy.

But this new work not only stands out for its sound, but also for its lyrics full of social criticism. La Inquisición addresses issues such as disenchantment, urban alienation and the internal conflicts of human beings. Spanish is the perfect vehicle to channel this anger and frustration, making the message resonate more strongly among their already loyal and multitudinous audience. "Las fotos mienten", the second cut, is a clear example of this, offering a stark vision of the fragility of today's world. It never hurts to have someone remind you that you have to question the reality that surrounds us and fight against the oppressive structures of modern society.

Barcelona, the band's hometown, is another recurring theme. In songs like "Cien colores," the quartet laments the transformation of the city, marked by savage capitalism and the loss of identity in its most vulnerable neighborhoods. There is also room for emotional reflection, as in "Sombra y luz," a tribute to a fallen comrade who now, in spirit, continues to accompany them. The lyrics of La Inquisición strike a delicate balance between scathing criticism and introspection, with choruses that reinforce their message without losing emotional intensity.

Although some may criticize that Mundo invisible does not bring new things to the genre, it is precisely its consistency that gives it strength. The band does not intend to break with the established, but to offer punk executed with precision and passion, huge tons of passion. This does not mean that the album is predictable; Songs like number five, “Otra manera,” and the one that follows, “Aplasta a la bestia,” remind us that La Inquisición is capable of channeling social frustration without losing the melodic focus that characterizes their sound. Although the formula is familiar, it is executed with a conviction and coherence that allows the album to remain firm in its purpose.

Yes, the lack of unexpected elements can be a disadvantage, but I see in Mundo invisible a confirmation of the sound that has made the band stand out in the Spanish-language punk scene. Although it is not an album that breaks molds, I insist, its solidity makes it an enjoyable work from beginning to end. Isn’t that the main purpose of the music?

With Mundo invisible, La Inquisición continues to demonstrate that their punk has a lot to say, and that they are one of the most consistent bands to be able to do so. Although they do not seek to reinvent the genre, their critical approach and precise execution allow them to continue evolving without losing sight of their essence. Mundo invisible is a sample of melodic, committed, honest and socially conscious punk, which manages to convey its message without falling into excesses or concessions. For followers of La Inquisición, this album is a firm step, and for those looking for a punk with soul and conscience, it remains a safe bet (*Review by Rubén de Haro ).

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