Retazos by Abaddon RD: A Heavy Metal Time Capsule from the Dominican Republic
Alright, so let’s talk about Retazos, the 2001 album by Abaddon RD. If you’re into raw, unfiltered heavy metal with that Latin American edge, this one might just hit the spot. Released under Heavy Producciones (yep, a fitting name for the label), this record is straight-up rock ‘n’ roll grit with a side of chaos. It’s not perfect—far from it—but man, does it have character.
The album kicks off with "Destrucción (En El Momento Rock)," and holy crap, this track slaps. It’s like someone took all the rage and frustration of life and turned it into riffs. The energy here feels wild, untamed, almost like they didn’t overthink it—which honestly works in their favor. You can tell these guys weren’t trying to be some polished, radio-friendly band. They were out here spitting fire, and “Destrucción” is proof of that. I remember this song because it sticks to your ribs—it’s got this relentless drive that makes you wanna punch the air or maybe even break something (in a good way).
Then there’s “Hambre De Matar 89’,” which sounds like it came straight outta some sweaty, underground club where everyone’s headbanging till their necks hurt. This one’s gnarly as hell, with lyrics that scream hunger—not just physical but maybe existential too? I dunno, but it’s got this primal vibe that stays with you. It’s messy, loud, and kinda beautiful in its own way. Like, yeah, the production isn’t top-notch, but who cares? That rawness is what makes it memorable.
Now, quick shoutout to “Espectros 89’” and “Fosa Común (Live TV)” too—they’ve got their moments, though nothing quite hits like those first two tracks I mentioned. And props to them for throwing in an unplugged version of “Promesas.” It shows they’re willing to mix things up instead of just sticking to full-on metal mode the whole time.
Here’s the thing about Retazos: it’s not gonna win any Grammy awards, and it probably won’t blow your mind if you’re expecting super tight musicianship or studio magic. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in heart. This album feels real, like a snapshot of a bunch of dudes just going for it, no holds barred. And honestly, that’s what heavy metal should be about—raw emotion and letting loose.
Oh, and random thought: I bet if you listened to this while cruising through Santo Domingo at night, windows down, volume cranked, it’d feel absolutely epic. Like, dangerously epic. Just saying.
So yeah, give Retazos a spin if you’re curious about heavy metal from the Dominican Republic. It ain’t flawless, but damn if it doesn’t leave a mark.
