RAW WAR: Listen to “Monetary Hell” From D-Beat Band’s Posthumous Total Raw War LP
Sentient Ruin Laboratories announces the long-awaited release of previously unreleased Raw War material on Total Raw War LP.
With wild anticipation, California’s Sentient Ruin Laboratories has announced the release of Total Raw War, a collection of previously unreleased material from Victoria, BC’s d-beat noise-mongers, Raw War (2009-2013).
Originally formed in 2009 as Glue Bag Chaos, the band’s early sound was heavily influenced by the chaotic, cider-soaked energy of bands like Disorder, Chaotic Dischord, and Japanese legends Confuse. This era marked the beginnings of a band destined to leave an indelible mark on the local punk scene. However, the transformation into Raw War signaled a shift towards a more Swedish-influenced d-beat/kängpunk style, reminiscent of classics like Anti-Cimex, Disarm, No Security, and early Avskum, amplified by vocals that echoed the raw intensity of Per from Filthy Christians.
Raw War’s debut 7-inch, Population Control, released in 2011, showcased this Scandinavian direction blended with still-present UK82 influences, and delivered a relentless, ear-splitting assault that refused to compromise. Their noise was a battleground, a combat zone for unapologetic raw energy and political fervor.
Despite their rising influence and spreading terror within and beyond British Columbia, Raw War’s career was as short and incendiary as their sound. In 2013, they quickly disbanded, leaving behind two unreleased masterpieces—an untitled 12-song full-length album, recorded in March 2012 at Incus Carnage Studios, and their never-heard Raw Terror EP. Three members of Raw War continued their musical rampage, forming the new band Kaiten, yet the Raw War legacy remained dormant but undiminished.
Now, in 2024, Total Raw War emerges as a true monument to this legacy. Compiled and released by Sentient Ruin Laboratories, this 12″ vinyl assembles the band’s complete unreleased works, including the mythical Raw Terror EP. Each track is a testament to the red-raw, uncompromising essence of Raw War and their chaotic fusion of political rage and sonic brutality.
As a prelude to this ferocious posthumous release, DIY Conspiracy is proud to present its eighth track, “Monetary Hell.” Embrace the chaos and join us in spreading the destruction & terror of Raw War worldwide!
Consisting of 17 tracks, Total Raw War is scheduled for a worldwide release on February 9, 2024. Pre-orders are now live from Sentient Ruin, promising a visceral experience that channels the chaotic spirit of Raw War’s brief but insurgent existence.
