Undefeated

Featuring members who went on to be in both !!! and Outhud, the only full-length from this chaotic hardcore punk outfit was put together in the mid-'90s but took nearly six years before it actually saw the light of day. Rarely making it past the three-minute mark, the 12 tracks on the disc are explosive, energetic, sloppy, and inspired as they race faster and faster toward their closing power chords. Clearly sung and screamed vocals lead the way over filthy-sounding guitars and thumping punk drumbeats, but the boys have a talent for writing good songs, and they are able to make their point with limited resources. The songs actually show a surprising amount of variety and, while they may not be pushing the limits of music, they construct some pretty impressive moments while staying inside the boundaries of speedy aggressive rock. The sound leaves a bit to be desired at some points but, seeing as how it is the only real document of the long-disbanded group, it isn't worth complaining about; at least something exists to represent this angry early hardcore act from Sacramento. This will really find a nice spot in the hearts of early punk and hardcore fans, as the Yah Mos rely more on power than on sound and come off like their music is from the mid-'80s instead of the '90s. The Yah Mos aren't for everyone, but if you give them a good listen, it's pretty clear that they really don't care. ~ Peter J. D'Angelo, Rovi