Iskra- Ruins LP

Formed in 2002, ISKRA set out with one goal – To revolutionize the metal underground. When I asked founding member Wolf as to why punks / activist’s would spend so much time and energy working in a  metal scene that seems worlds away from anarchist principles, his response was simple, “Because it needs it.” Since the early 2000’s ISKRA have toured the United States, Canada, and Europe. Brilliantly combining crushing metal with well thought out and highly political lyrics, it is no surprise that they have become somewhat legendary in both the punk and metal underground.

“Ruins” is ISKRA’s third studio album and by far their best one yet. Recorded February 2014, Ruins was engineered and produced in true DIY fashion by ISKRA’s own drummer Cody Baresich. The album was then mastered for vinyl at Sweden’s CUTTING ROOM by Martin Ankelius.

“Ruins” contains 10 punishing songs with lyrics ranging from anarchist theory, military drone strikes on civilian populations, historic native american battles against european colonialism, and a yearning to be free from draconian laws. Combined with over the top riffs, devastating blast beats, pulverizing toms, and the occasional dive bomb this LP will leave your speakers smoldering. Not only is this one of the most intense records PROFANE EXISTENCE has ever done, it is also one of the most beautiful presentations we have seen in recent years. The stark mountainous cover resembles Middle Earth artwork but the real gem is the 11in x 11in 12 page booklet inside.