K’e-K’e-M / Hathor – Noise Pollution For Your Listening Pleasure EP

Honestly, this record sat on my shelf for years, untouched and unheard. Judging by the title, Sound Pollution For Your Listening Pleasure, I assumed it would be some kind of rabid grindcore, though the dirtbike racer on the cover did seem like an odd choice for a hardcore punk record. When I finally gave it a spin, I realized I was in for something entirely different, and I’m glad I did.

This 7-inch EP, released in 2007 and limited to 500 copies, features two bands with three tracks each, offering an interesting mix of punk and metal influences. First up is K’e-K’e-M from Italy, whose sound leans toward punk rock but incorporates heavy metal riffs and guitar solos that add a distinct flair. Their third track is a surprising cover of “(Gotta Get Some Action) Now!” by Swedish hard rock legends The Hellacopters, a choice that perfectly reflects their knack for blending genres while keeping it fun and energetic.

On the flip side, we have Hathor from Sweden, who bring a heavier, more metal-influenced approach. Their tracks carry a grittier tone, leaning into thrash territory while staying firmly rooted in the punk rock spirit. Their contribution ends with a blazing cover of Venom’s “Live Like An Angel (Die Like A Devil),” a bold choice that presents an ability to channel the gusto of classic metal without simply imitating it. Both bands wear their Motörhead influence on their sleeves, but they manage to interpret that legacy in their own ways, mixing punk and thrash metal without feeling derivative.

This EP isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s an interesting and enjoyable listen. If you’re into punk with a metallic edge and love approach of bands experimenting with crossover sounds, this is worth tracking down. The 500-copy limitation makes it a rare find, but it’s a record that’s worth digging out for the curious and open-minded. Sometimes, you find the most intriguing surprises in records you’ve overlooked for years.