It is going to be hard to top this record. Following up two demos from five or six years ago, Hondartzako Hondakinak released their first 7” this year. Well, last year, but it is turning up this year – available in the US on from Solar Funeral Records, Flower Of Carnage in Japan, and from the band in France. The seven tracks here are full of so much manic energy that they constantly feel as if they are only moments from flying off in all directions, and keep that unhinged, on-the-edge quality throughout. These Basque punks have crafted a hardcore record that makes you remember what attracted you to the music to begin with: it is simple, ugly, menacing, and unforgettable. Catchy, raw hardcore punk devoid of trend and full of energy. I really can’t say enough for this record, so let the music speak for it. At this point, it is going to take a lot to unseat this one from 2017’s #1 for me.