Toxic Rites – S/T EP

When Symphony of Destruction dropped the Toxic Rites demo tape back in 2023, I was instantly hooked on their catchiness. Now Brittany’s finest DIY label returns with the band’s first-ever vinyl release, which is a tight 7-inch packed with four memorable punk tracks.

Even though this EP came out in June 2025, the songs were recorded two years prior, so the band’s sound isn’t much different from the demo. Toxic Rites draw inspiration from melodic, tuneful peace punk bands like The Mob, Zounds, and Alternative, but rather than leaning into colder post-punk terrains, they stay catchy, anthemic, and closer to street punk angst. In my earlier mention of the band, I referenced The Restarts, and that comparison still fits. But what really sets Toxic Rites apart is their subtle folk-punk influences, despite the lack of traditional folk instruments. This influence makes perfect sense when you know vocalist Clem also fronts Layland, a folk band that draws from Brittany’s Celtic roots and distinct cultural identity.

Clem’s vocals remain a highlight, and while having a singer who can actually sing isn’t essential in anarcho-punk, it certainly makes Toxic Rites stand out. But lyrics are always the heart of this music, and Toxic Rites channel sharp political anger and personal vulnerability into tightly-written, no-pretense songs. The four originals confront urban alienation and substance abuse while celebrating rural pride and DIY ethics over selling out.

Opening track “Voice Hunger” paints a dystopian vision of sterile, alienating city life: “Blinding white walls and giant ads / Plastic shops selling plastic goods.” There’s clear influence from Orwellian imagery (“1984 is back!”) and an acute awareness of how public space can feel oppressive, surveilled, and emotionally barren. My favorite lyrically is “Take Care,” which confronts punk’s normalization of substance abuse in social settings without moralizing. Instead, it’s a compassionate plea for mutual support and recognizing sobriety as a valid choice. As someone straight edge who spends plenty of time listening to anarcho-punk, d-beat, and crust, it’s great hearing this kind of message from a non-hardcore band. On the flipside, “Rural Song” celebrates local pride as the band comes from a rural area rather than living the metropolitan life. The song also calls out classism and cultural prejudice toward rural communities. “Famous” is a straight-forward punk anthem defending DIY values and integrity against those who chase fame. It’s not targeted at any specific band, I believe, but clearly aims at former punks who’ve abandoned their DIY ethics for personal gain.

If Breton bands like Syndrome 81 and Litovsk are your thing, this EP is essential. Toxic Rites are genuine punks with a powerful message. Who knows what’s next for them? Maybe a full-length album is in the works, too.