Durian (USA) / Kandarivas (Japan) - Split (2024)

 

Among grindcore’s many traditions, the split 7” is one of its most beloved, and for good reason. Sure, bands in most punk subgenres release splits. But none are as uniquely suited to the brevity of the medium as grind.

Within the ~5 minute per side limit, a grindcore band can fit an EP’s worth of material. This means that 7” records offer a condensed showcase for bands at a low price point. For this reason, they’re a great place for an established band to give a shot to a lesser-known group, or for two like-minded bands at the top of their game to perform a sort of blastbeat-driven cultural exchange.

This split, between USA’s Durian and Japan’s Kandarivas, is firmly in the latter category. Both bands have been making waves within their respective scenes with forward-thinking metallic grind for years. Durian plays a speedy, classically American sort of grind in the traditions of Discordance Axis and Assück, both of which they’ve covered in the past. Kandarivas’ modus operandi is slightly more experimental, incorporating traditional taiko drumming alongside the guitar and drum kit in place of a bass guitar.

Durian open the record with a strong, focused set of 5 songs. These songs are some of their best recorded and performed to date. Everything here shines, especially the tracks “Fleeced” and “Huck”.

Kandarivas begin side 2 with a new version of their microsong “GSA (Grind Surgical Attitude)”, originally from the Grind Surgical Shrine LP, performed with their current lineup. It’s followed by a tribute to their splitmates called “Durian,” which features the refrain “Eat, sleep, grind… Durian!” Perhaps most intriguing is “Bakayaro,” which interpolates “Get Got” by American noise rap experimentalists Death Grips within a grindcore context. (It rules.)

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a release worth seeking out. If you’re new, it’s a great introduction to both bands in a compact timeframe. If you’re not, it’s an exciting taste of what’s to come.

The digital and vinyl versions of the album can be purchased from Nerve Altar's Bandcamp in the USA, and the CD version can be purchased from Obliteration Records in Japan.