Madrugado - ‘Infierno Eterno’ EP

North County San Diego hardcore unit Madrugado have been a local favorite of ours for years now, with their crunching beatdown stylings propelling records like S/T, Chained Down, and Slipping Into Darkness. Earlier this week, they dropped a new one on us, the pummeling, seething masterpiece Infierno Eterno EP.

On seven tracks clocking in at just around eight minutes combined, the band tightly packs more rage and chaos than most full-length albums - speedy riffs mixed with mangled breakdowns, satanic snare-filled drum patterns, and larynx-shattering vocals. We’re off to the races with lead track “Devoid of Empathy,” fully emotionally unleashed by the time “Self-Induced Curse” rolls along, and limping toward spiritual catharsis on the ominous, Hereditary-featured closing “Existential Dread.” It’s a breakneck ride that does not let its foot off the gas at any point. Do yourself a favor and give it a head-bang on your next smoke break.