Remember a couple of months back when we talked about Uno a Uno waving the flag for Mexican hardcore? That flag is flying even higher now.
Following the release of their single “Rata” (featuring Nate Rebolledo of Xibalba), the Mexican band returns with the premiere of their brand-new full-length, Que El Mundo Arda En Llamas (Spanish for May the World Burn in Flames).
After two years of writing, pre-production, and recording, Uno a Uno is finally unveiling the result: a politically charged, riff-heavy collection of 10 songs. Reaching a fifth studio release is no small feat for any hardcore band—let alone delivering what may be their strongest material to date:
“It’s important to mention that each time we work on new material, we base both the composition and lyrics on the moment we are going through as a band and as individuals,” vocalist Armando Ronquillo tells No Echo. “This includes our view of the world at that time, as well as our emotional and personal states.”
That mindset drives the record’s core themes. The band sees this moment as one where speaking out is not just important, but necessary. As Ronquillo explains, “All of this is reflected in the lyrics: a rejection of abuses of authority, the imposition of religion, and fanaticism, as well as encouraging people to take action into their own hands in the face of such mistreatment.” Hardcore has always been about speaking your mind, and Uno a Uno fully embraces that tradition.
The album also features an impressive lineup of guest appearances from close friends across North and Central America, including contributors from the USA, Canada, and Costa Rica. Each collaboration is tied to a specific theme: “Nuestra Tierra” (feat. Eddy of Wise Up* and Fer of Camorra) tackles drug trafficking; “Rafa” (feat. Nate of Xibalba) addresses police abuse of authority; “Dios No Está Aquí” (feat. Aldo of Human Garbage) explores religious fanaticism and its parallels to drug culture; “Enemigos” (feat. Rodrigo of ENEMY906) focuses on political institutions and oppression; and “Let It Slide” (feat. Andrew of Comeback Kid) examines the weight of emotional baggage stemming from these issues.
Que El Mundo Arda En Llamas is out now on streaming outlets, with a physical edition planned for later this summer. Looking ahead, the band is preparing to put miles on their van. “We’re planning a tour to promote the release,” Ronquillo says, “which is really exciting for us since we get to see our friends from all around the country.”
Hasta aquí mi reporte, Joaquín.
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