Review / 200 Words Or Less
Braindead / Blackbirds
Split

Burn Bridges (2007) Michael

Braindead / Blackbirds – Split cover artwork
Braindead / Blackbirds – Split — Burn Bridges, 2007

The split effort from Burn Bridges teams up two underrated bands that definitely deserve more attention. Pennsylvania's Braindead and Michigan's Blackbirds each deliver original songs as well as covering classic The Stooges songs.

Braindead offers up three originals of melodic hardcore that draw influence from the likes of Turning Point and Kid Dynamite. In between the two "songs" is an interlude track that highlights the band's unique take on hardcore, further allowing them to standout. The band tackles The Stooges' classic "Search and Destroy" and does quite a good job with it - props to covering such a classic tune.

Blackbirds opts to lead off with their cover, they take on The Stooges' "I Wanna Be Your Dog." It's hard to judge their take on it if you've yet to hear "their" sound. But overall it's pretty good, a bit heavier than The Stooges but shows the influence of the legends on their sound. Blackbirds' two originals bear likeness to the work of bands like Tragedy and From Ashes Rise. It's a stark contrast to that of Braindead, but I dig it.

7.0 / 10Michael • July 6, 2008

Braindead / Blackbirds – Split cover artwork
Braindead / Blackbirds – Split — Burn Bridges, 2007

Recently-posted album reviews

Rufio

From The Outside
Double Felix Records, Double Helix Records (2026)

“Rufio?! Like from back in the day Rufio?” Those were the words out of my mouth while claiming my next review. I wore out Perhaps, I Suppose as a teenager and my curiosity piqued. It has been 25 years since that album was released and 16 years since we have heard from Rufio at all. Regardless of these facts, we … Read more

Oddfellows

Oddfellows
Dirtnap, Wild Honey Records (2026)

The self-titled album from Oddfellows was a long time coming. As in, the band formed in 1994. Now in 2026, they return with founding members Chris Pulliam, Mark Ryan, and Mike Throneberry, plus new addition Peter Salisbury to release their debut album just 32 years later. This lineup means you're going to get a Marked Men reference right away, but … Read more

Cel Ray

Cel Rayzer
Exploding In Sound Records (2026)

I don’t remember how, but I stumbled across Chicago’s Cel Ray in 2023 on the heels of their debut EP, Cellular Raymond. I was immediately hooked. After another EP and a single, the band finally brings us their debut long player, Cel Rayzer. To no surprise, it’s excellent. Cel Ray plays a brand of post-punk that’s lo-fi and streamlined. Singer … Read more