ManBREAK


Mixing scally arrogance and wit with a streetwise focus, ManBREAK could easily go off the rails. Get the balance wrong and they could end up disappearing up their own arse. The point is that the 'BREAK have got it all sussed.
Calling them a rap-metal crew might be slightly misleading, but they certainly fit in with fellow Scousers dBh and Bullyrag. Wrapping stark late '90s rage in blisters of distorted pop-rock, ManBREAK avoid the cliches of an increasingly crowded genre, preferring to rely on instinct rather than careful choreography. The result is stirring and effective.
They deal with the empty spaces at the Garage by simply getting on with their set. Vocalist Swindelli introducing each song with an indifference that borders on contempt, but it just reinforces ManBREAK's ire.
But their real ace is a pack of good songs. 'Ready Or Not' oddly brings to mind Bon Jovi, but with a buzzsaw, alternative grind. And 'Future Days' has a twisted, cynical taste.
Fueled on self-belief and excess energy, ManBREAK are quickly becoming an essential live attraction. The next few months should be interesting.

Written by Malcolm Dome; from Kerrang! May 17, 1997

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