Justin R. Cruz Gallego from Tacoma, Washington, grew up with Latin music and spent his youth in Seattle’s punk scene. Eventually, he developed an interest in electronic sounds. These diverse influences converge when he takes up his instruments as J.R.C.G.
His second album, “Grim Iconic…(Sadistic Mantra)” (Sub Pop), follows the experimental 2021 debut “Ayo Sunshine” and adds lively rhythms to the mix. Nevertheless, it remains a sensible chaos.
Clattering beats, screams and squeals, shimmering rock, lush electronic sounds, and songs that veer from ambient to noise. Post-punk consumed by darkness. For instance, “Dogear” opens with a casual groove that then plunges into the abyss.
It’s an incredibly versatile grab bag. “Cholla Beat” transitions from a compelling beat to weird folk. “Junk Corrido” is featherlight and creakingly sparse. If there’s one thing to criticize about this album, it’s the lack of a song that consistently follows a single motif. But that would probably be too boring.
J.R.C.G. – Grim Iconic...(Sadistic Mantra): Overdriven electro punk. – RIFL
