¡Tomar Control! – Lo que llevamos dentro

Women have their say in the hardcore scene, it’s not just a place for so-called tough guys, and one of the strongest and most fearless groups of women comes from Peru, in South America. ¡Tomar Control! started making noise and expressing themselves in 2014, making their way in the scene of their country, playing with many bands like Fuerza De Voluntad, Appraise and Paroximia. With their PMA, Positive Mental Attitude, they try to keep the Peruvian hardcore scene alive and well. And I think they are doing a good job.

This album is fast, strong and to the point. Think old school hardcore, like Youth of Today and early Uniform Choice, with that sense of brotherhood (sisterhood in this case) that doesn’t feel fake at all. These girls want to take their place in the world, and they’re going to take it into their own hands. Feminism, veganism, PMA and straight edge fill their lyrics with a strong sense of power to make a real change in the world. You can almost feel all the people chanting the lyrics and doing stage dives when you listen to this album.

Words can affect you. Maybe lyrics aren’t just something you put next to a cool black and white picture of the show on your shirt, huh?

Even though they are very influenced by ’80s hardcore, the production makes us think of modern hardcore like True Love. The sound is tight and of high quality. It’s not at all lo-fi like Japanese punk bands like Kuro or Gauze. This release could have been released on React! Records (and it should be, since they already worked with a band from South America, Remission). Resonant voice? Check. Hard-hitting guitars? Check. Clear and vibrating bass? Check. Fast and steady drumming? Check. Energy and passion? CHECK!

So if you like old school hardcore that gets to the point and sounds clear and energetic, don’t waste your time and check out this album. They’ll be touring South America soon, and the girls are hoping to tour Europe in 2017 as well, so stay tuned!