Review Summary: A Mutated Strand.
United Mutation emerged out of the DC hardcore punk scene from the ashes of the garage band called Dark Self Image. They would later use Dark Self Image as their record label name. I wanted to preface this interview with some background information since this EP was a split release between DSI and the powerhouse label Dischord Records. Fugitive Family was their first vinyl offering and one of the darkest releases from the DC scene at the time that was known for more fun and playful acts like Minor Threat or Dag Nasty.
There is very little time wasted from the opening track 'Fugitive Family,' which kicks in with a swift pogo beat and the vicious vocal delivery from Mike Brown. I'm not sure if there was anyone in the early 80's USHC scene that sounded this evil. His voice can be compared to Saveki from GISM. To coincide with the GISM comparison I wonder if a lot of Japanese bands got a hold of this record. There's no break from the whirlwind of speed and energy here and the drumming is also very comparable to Gauze's drummer.
Out of the 7 songs on this EP I truly cannot pick a standout track. There's odd hints of early black metal, crust punk, and straight up hardcore punk in this record that I feel may have laid a blueprint for tons of bands far more influential. The final song 'Lice And Flies' is filled with a charging drumbeat that ends in a cacophony of noise that fans of Rudimentary Peni could even enjoy.
It's shocking to me that this record is overlooked by listeners of punk, but, it makes sense in the timeframe that this record came out in. In 1983 hardcore was booming and while this record is incredible and truly unique there were bands like Minor Threat, Black Flag, and the Bad Brains that were taking the world by storm by touring and leaving their homes. If there's one drawback to this record it may be the repetition of the songs, but, with the short runtime I don't think that should bother most people.
United Mutation is looked back on more currently with bands like Blazing Eye, Cadaver Dog, and City Hunter taking massive influence from this record. If you're looking for a vicious, fast, and somewhat evil listen I would suggest this record to you. A true gem that was lost to the sands of time. There's a reissue out on Radio Raheem that I also recommend picking up.
