Album Review: Zerua Urez by OLOR – A Genre-Bending Punk Odyssey
Released in 2019, Zerua Urez by OLOR is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. It’s not the kind of record you just casually toss into your playlist—it demands attention. Hailing from Spain and self-released under Not On Label, this album blends Pop, Electronic, and Rock with a raw Punk attitude that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. And let’s not forget: Jokin Azpiazu Carballo basically wore every hat during production, handling everything from basslines to drum programming. That level of creative control gives the album a cohesive edge, even when it veers wildly between styles.
One standout track is “Homo Homini Lupus.” The title alone grabs you—it means "man is a wolf to man," which sets an ominous tone right off the bat. This song smashes together gritty guitar riffs, pulsating synths, and some seriously angsty vocals. What sticks with me isn’t just how chaotic it feels but also how intentional that chaos seems. There's this moment about halfway through where the beat drops out completely, leaving only a haunting vocal echo before slamming back in full force. You don’t expect it, and honestly? That’s what makes it unforgettable. It’s like being punched in the gut—but in a good way.
Another track worth mentioning is “Gau Kanta.” If “Homo Homini Lupus” is all teeth and claws, then “Gau Kanta” is its quieter, introspective cousin. The melody has this dreamy, almost hypnotic quality thanks to the layered synth work and sparse percussion. But don’t mistake calm for complacency; there’s still plenty of tension lurking beneath the surface. When the distorted guitars kick in near the end, it’s like watching clouds part to reveal a storm brewing on the horizon. It’s beautiful, unsettling, and impossible to ignore—all at once.
The rest of the album keeps up the energy, with tracks like “Posmoderno” offering sharp commentary wrapped in punchy hooks, while “Itxarongela” brings a slower, more reflective vibe. Credit goes to Jonan Ordorika for mastering and Ander Barriuso/Iñaki Bengoa for mixing—they managed to balance the chaos without losing the grittiness that defines OLOR’s sound. Oh, and props to Maialen Belaustegi Lapeyra and Irune Jaio Lavado for nailing the cover art and design. It perfectly matches the rebellious yet thoughtful spirit of the music.
So yeah, Zerua Urez might not be everyone’s cup of tea. It’s messy in places, experimental as hell, and occasionally feels like it’s trying too hard to push boundaries. But that’s exactly why it works. In a world full of polished pop songs designed to fade into the background, OLOR dares to make something jagged, imperfect, and alive.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like getting caught in a rainstorm—you’re drenched, maybe a little uncomfortable, but somehow invigorated. Punk rock would’ve been proud.
