There may not be any Christian values preached when hardcore trashers Rambo play on Easter Monday, but you can expect plenty of righteousness. The four-piece band from Philadelphia are now in their fourth year of anarcho-punk-inspired mayhem. Stopping off on their way to Australia, and after sold-out shows in Thailand and Singapore, Rambo arrive in Hong Kong to the delight of a growing hardcore audience. Rambo are in town to promote their new album, Wall of Death the System, a 27-track, turbo-charged offering that includes 20 minutes of live video footage. Primal and raucous, the album harks back to the original hardcore sound pioneered by bands such as Minor Threat and Sick of It All. With most tracks lasting no longer than a minute, it is an adrenaline-fuelled ride. But scratch beneath the outfit's brash, nihilistic surface, and there is thoughtfulness and measured opinion. This isn't noise for noise's sake. It's a channelled, controlled release of energy and emotion. Although the Rambo sound isn't to everyone's taste, the band have points to make. Highly political, Rambo have always tried to challenge what they call the system. Opponents of US President George W. Bush, the band - led by Tony Pointless - make constant lyrical and graphic references to his policies and perceived misgivings. Anti-globalists, Rambo are fiercely independent and rely on a network of aficionados via fanzines, word of mouth and the internet for support. In return, the band say they keep the admission prices of their shows and recordings to a minimum. Monday's concert is $50. Some critics say that, in an industry that's routinely battling with copyright and infringement issues, the underground prevails with a system of fairness. Others argue that in today's consumer-driven world, such idealism is bound to be swallowed up by market realities. Either way, Rambo's passion is winning fans, and about 300 are expected to see them play in Hong Kong. They shouldn't be disappointed, because the band have received rave reviews for their high-octane touring performances over the years. Rambo say they champion 'creative, non-intrusive, all-inclusive 'moshtrocity'' in their shows. An appreciation for others' safety and well-being in the moshpit is the key to giving audiences a chance to release their energy, the band say. They also try to be innovative, with theatrical performances backing up their political refrains. It's a moshpit hardcore lovers will get stuck into. Rambo, Warehouse, 116 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen, April 12, 7.30pm. Wall of Death the System is available in Asia on Thai label Elephant Eye Record, and will be on sale at the concert. Support bands: King Ly Chee, Departing Cross and Hardpack. Tickets $50. Inquiries: 2873 2244
