Let’s make a quick stop in Eugene, Oregon, for a band that isn’t interested in escaping political turmoil so much as staring it directly in the face. Liquid Cross have just released their rippin’ second EP, following a 2025 debut that earned the stamp of approval from Henry Rollins.

Featuring members of Ball Pythons, Cool Piss, End Time, Milked, and Geronimo!, Liquid Cross are not your average punk band. It makes perfect sense that names like Wipers and The Saints come up when discussing them. One minute they’re firing off a straight-line missile like This World, the next they’re stretching out on the five-minute The New One / Low Lesson, a two-part centerpiece that showcases just how much range and firepower this trio possesses.

There is a hard-rocking edge to Liquid Cross that occasionally reminds me of Australia’s Split System. The songs are urgent, angry, and politically charged without ever feeling predictable or preachy.

I’m not saying that playing music this loud will change the political system. But listening to Hateful, it certainly feels like somebody is trying.

Tape available through Strange Mono.

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