Debut album from Disruptive Influence

Disruptive Influence is a Bristol-based trash punk outfit who’ve been igniting the alternative rock scene with their uncompromising sound since starting out back in 2011. Born out of a light hearted desire to sneak into gigs by getting on the line up, the band has since flourished into an exciting project in its own right, delivering thrilling performances that transform audiences into raucous punk choirs.

With songs that target politics and working-class life, Disruptive Influence captures the angst and irreverence of the genre while keeping it infectiously fun. Over the years, the band has played alongside punk icons like The Buzzcocks, Sham 69 and Peter and the Test-Tube Babies, confirming their status as purveyors of riotous energy and sharp-edged commentary.

After nearly a decade of lineup changes, Disruptive Influence has crystallised its identity around a core group of musicians entrenched in Bristol’s punk scene. Frontman and band leader Ollie Pickett remains the only founding member, steering the ship with an unrelenting passion while joining him are lead guitarist Thomas “Higgy” Higginson, bassist Robin Courtney and Jed “Jed Terror” Downey on drums.

Capturing their sound int he studio, in 2020 they dropped their first release with their debut EP, Underage Drinking. Now they’re back with their most ambitious work to date, bringing us their brand new debut full-length record with the nine-track album titled Brink of War.

Brink of War presents a powerful sonic assault, blending memorable lyrics, gripping riffs and a truly anthemic rock sound. Recorded at Bristol’s Room 4 studios with producer Phil Davies, the band’s hooks and tongue-in-cheek approach keep the energy high, delivering an exhilarating listening experience throughout.

Kicked off by “Angry,” the charge of crunching guitars erupts with splashy drums and lively vocalisations to craft an uptempo punk rock spectacle. Capped by compelling vocal leads and impactful backing voices, it’s an epic and instantly catchy outing brimming with punk angst and driving energy. Title track “Brink of War” follows with rolling drums before gritty guitar riffs and belted vocals enter to deliver bold lyricism, serving up another flurry of raucous blistering punk rock.

On “Misconduct,” the angular twang of lead guitar notes and pulsing bass guitar lines is met with fierce percussion as the gripping vocal work joins to make an enthralling dose of furious music. Other highlights on the record include songs like “Distorted News” where bouncy guitar stabs glide into a pop-tinged rock vibe that takes aim at the increasingly prevalent problem of misinformation in the news today.

“Your Country Hates You” lights an explosive match of pure punk rock flair as galloping drums propel spirited guitars and bustling vocals to create a robust listening experience. Closing the album with “Fuck Them All,” fuzzy, choked guitars tumble into place as the vocals enter to craft a grooving finale packed full of swaggering aesthetic and slick lead guitar work to deliver a mighty finale to the band’s sensational debut record.

Listen to Brink of War below