Break the Spell cover

Break the Spell

Voodoo Glow Skulls · 2012

36 min · 14 tracks · hardcore punk

A frenetic blend of ska-infused punk energy and sharp, socially conscious lyrics that challenge authority and celebrate rebellion.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Don't Jump the Gun — This track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its driving rhythm and energetic horn sections, making it a standout anthem against procrastination and complacency.
  • →
    Police Knocking on My Door — Here, the band tackles themes of authority and personal freedom with biting wit, showcasing their knack for blending humor with serious topics.
  • →
    My Girlfriend Is a Chola — This brief but impactful track highlights the band's playful side, mixing cultural references with catchy hooks that reflect their unique identity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic punk with sharp lyrics, maintaining a distinct sound while addressing social issues.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a brief instrumental intro that sets a frenetic tone, immediately followed by high-energy tracks that maintain a fast tempo.
  • Several songs feature rapid shifts in dynamics, alternating between aggressive verses and more melodic choruses, creating an engaging contrast.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • frenetic energy for party vibes
  • short bursts of intensity
  • political themes for engagement
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • cathartic release through chaos

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, reflective pieces
  • prefer polished, slow builds

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Break the Spell' was released in 2012, Voodoo Glow Skulls had already established themselves within the hardcore punk scene with a distinctive sound since their 1994 debut. This album marked their return after a five-year hiatus, following 'Steal This Record' in 2007, demonstrating their resilience and continued relevance in a changing musical landscape.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Intro 2:55
  • 2 Don't Jump the Gun 2:53
  • 3 Police Knocking on My Door 2:41
  • 4 Creep Tonight 3:09
  • 5 Knucklehead 3:15
  • 6 Haunt You 2:42
  • 7 Bro Truck 2:21
  • 8 Dead Soldiers 3:05
  • 9 Long Way Home 1:44
  • 10 Static on My Radio 2:40
  • 11 Puro Desmadre 2:03
  • 12 Unlucky Bastard 2:25
  • 13 My Girlfriend Is a Chola 0:54
  • 14 The Resurrection 3:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata