BRIGADE LOCO is a band from the Basque Country, more specifically from the Spanish Basque Country and specifically from Bergara, a small town just under sixty kilometers from Bilbao.
The band was formed in 2017 and released an album in 2019, 2020, and 2022, making “Bide Baten Esanahia“ the fourth full-length album in their seven-year history. Seven productive years that would likely have been even more productive if it weren't for Corona.
The band kicks off strong with their first song “Eten“. A song that stylistically reminds me a lot of ZSK from Berlin. Not a bad reference, especially since the song is captivating and leaves you wanting more.
The songs on the album can be classified as melodic and catchy punk rock, which should not be entirely unfamiliar to the ears.
What is particularly noteworthy is that the band consistently performs their songs in the Basque language. It takes a little getting used to the language, but that happens quickly since the music is catchy and melodic.
The lyrics, as far as I have information on, deal with the current life situation as well as reflections on it. There are themes such as loss, looking towards the future, and what one could do with it. As the saying goes in one of the few English lines on the album
keep this flame alive
A line that holds a lot of truth. Given the state of the world in general and the political situation in the Basque Country in particular, one can, for quite understandable reasons, start to bury their head in the sand.
Exactly that should... No, must not be done.
Not in the Basque Country, not with us, not elsewhere in the world. The situation is challenging but not hopeless. If there are people like you and me and BRIGADE LOCO who remain stable, humane, committed, and fair, then that gives a piece of hope and strength.
What confuses me a bit is the cover of “Bide Baten Esanahia“. The band, stylishly dressed, poses in front of an old Peugeot. The booklet contains more pictures of this vehicle, showing its interior as well. Was this vehicle built in the Spanish Basque Country at the time, and does this model mean a lot to the people?
Is this vehicle the band’s favorite model?
It is not explained, and I have not found any clues as to why exactly this vehicle plays such a significant role on the cover.
It is primarily about music, message, and attitude, and BRIGADE LOCO has a lot to offer in that regard.
