Genex by Ugly Hurons: A Ska-Punk Gem You Didn’t Know You Needed
Alright, let’s talk about Genex, the 1994 album by Ugly Hurons that feels like a wild night out in some underground German club. This record doesn’t try to be perfect—it’s raw, messy, and packed with attitude. If you’re into rock but also dig ska and punk vibes, this one might just hit the spot.
First off, big props to Höhnie Records and Nasty Vinyl for putting it out there. And shoutout to Mike and Tom B. for the artwork—it’s got that gritty, DIY charm that matches the music perfectly. The lineup is tight too: Ulf on bass, Beize smashing drums, Ski shredding guitar, Daniel blowing that trumpet (yep, trumpet!), and Mike handling vocals while Jana adds killer backing harmonies. Oh, and Stolle behind the boards? Solid call.
Now, onto the tracks. I’ve gotta single out two bangers here because they stuck with me long after the needle lifted off the vinyl.
“Kann Es Liebe Sein?”
This track kicks things off with a punchy ska riff that immediately grabs your attention. It’s got this bouncy energy mixed with punk snarl, making it impossible not to nod along. The lyrics are in German, so unless you speak the lingo, you’ll have to vibe off the delivery—but trust me, Mike sells it. There’s something endearing about how unpolished yet heartfelt his voice sounds over the brass-heavy melody. By the time the chorus hits, you’re already hooked. Plus, Daniel’s trumpet work? Absolute fire. Feels like someone spiked your drink with adrenaline.
“Meneaters”
If “Kann Es Liebe Sein?” sets the tone, “Meneaters” cranks everything up a notch. This tune has more of a straight-up punk edge, with fast-paced drumming from Beize and gnarly guitar riffs courtesy of Ski. It’s chaotic in all the right ways, like a mosh pit breaking out at a jazz festival. The title alone tells you what kind of vibe we’re dealing with—sassy, bold, maybe even a little dangerous. Jana’s backing vocals really shine here, adding layers to the chaos without softening the blow. Honestly, if this song doesn’t get your blood pumping, check your pulse.
As for “Lost Song,” it rounds out the trio nicely, though it takes a slightly mellower approach compared to the others. Still worth a spin, especially if you’re looking for variety within the album.
So yeah, Genex isn’t gonna win any Grammys, nor does it seem like it was trying to. But that’s what makes it special—it’s real, unfiltered, and full of personality. Listening to it feels like stumbling upon a hidden treasure nobody told you about.
Oh, random thought: I bet whoever came up with the name Höhnie Records had a laugh—they clearly don’t care much for fancy branding. Kinda refreshing, honestly.
Final verdict? If you love albums that feel alive rather than overly produced, grab yourself a copy of Genex. Just don’t blame me if you start air-drumming in public.
