Album Review: Disconnected by No Master (2013)
Alright, so let’s talk about Disconnected, the 2013 rock album from No Master. If you’re into hardcore and punk vibes with a raw edge, this one might just hit the spot for you. Released independently through Not On Label and XO Press, it’s got that DIY grit that makes underground music so damn appealing. The band—Davey, David, Jake, and co.—deliver a punchy, no-frills record that feels like a middle finger to polished mainstream rock. Oh, and shoutout to Devin for the artwork and Dan Ohm for recording this beast.
Now, onto the tracks. There are five songs on here, but two really stuck with me: “Power” and “System Slave.”
“Power” kicks things off with this relentless energy that grabs you by the throat. It’s fast, loud, and unapologetic—basically everything you want from a hardcore track. What makes it memorable is how pissed-off it sounds without being overly chaotic. You can actually hear the lyrics, which is rare in this genre, and they hit hard. It’s not just noise; it’s a statement. Like, dude, I could feel my pulse racing while listening to it. That opening riff? Instant goosebumps.
Then there’s “System Slave,” which slows things down just enough to let the weight of the message sink in. This one’s more brooding, almost like they’re dragging you through their frustrations. The vocals have this raspy desperation to them, and the breakdown near the end? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of song that makes you wanna scream along even if you don’t know all the words.
The other tracks—“Disconnected,” “Struggle//Conform,” and “Civilized”—are solid too, but these two stood out because they felt raw and real. Like, you can tell these guys aren’t trying to impress anyone. They’re just laying it all out there, warts and all.
Here’s the thing: Disconnected isn’t perfect. Some parts feel a little rough around the edges, but honestly? That’s what makes it work. It’s not supposed to be flawless—it’s supposed to make you feel something. And man, did it do that for me.
Final thought: Listening to this album felt like finding an old mixtape at a thrift store. You’re not sure what you’re getting into, but once you press play, you realize it’s gold. Or maybe rusted gold. Either way, worth your time.
Oh, and random note—I listened to this while folding laundry, and suddenly folding socks felt rebellious. Go figure.
