New York hardcore vets Biohazard played Foufounes Electriques (review, photos)

All photos courtesy of Jason Hughes (http://jasonhughesphoto.com/)

Hip-hop inspired New York hardcore mainstays Biohazard rolled into Foufounes Electriques on June 27th, for their first Montreal stop in years. Now fronted by guitarist Billy Graziadei following the departure of original frontman Evan Seinfeld, the band brought a level of energy and intensity to their set that easily surpassed hardcore bands half their age.

With a crowd-pleasing setlist wisely focused on their early 90’s Urban Discipline and State of the World Address albums, the band seemed completely rejuvenated, with Graziadei in particular leaping into the air and pacing the stage like it was a CBGS’s matinee. The mid-30’s crowd of skinheads, punks and hardcore kids responded in kind, with stage-dives, sing-alongs, and even a full-on circle pit. Graziadei has a long history with Montreal, and told a great story about coming up here as a teenager, hanging with local skinheads, and getting arrested right next to Foufounes itself.

Crafting a new identity for a band following the departure of a charismatic frontman is no easy feat, but Biohazard have definitely proven that this current lineup is up to the task. In fact, they may have been better at this show then in their heyday.

Biohazard have a new record deal with Nuclear Blast Records, and a new album is supposed to be forthcoming later this year.

Check out a series of photos from the show below.