Review: “Divided We Fall” by Biohazard

A classic fist in the air anthem in Metallic Hardcore with a politically charged and socially aware lyrical narrative, “Fuck The System” sets the tone for “Divided We Fall” in style. Calling for unity at a time of crisis while warning of media lies, it’s a demonstration of how Biohazard aren’t afraid to use their platform to speak the truth and in doing so they remind us why they’re so vital. Sonically it’s classic Brooklyn Hardcore with an arty intro, the addition of a few extra leads from Hummel bolstering their sound. Hardcore Punk riffs open the floor for two steppers as “Forsaken” takes shape, the bombastic bass line front and center. Gang chant moments and a slick solo ensure the band have your attention while in similar territory to Agnostic Front and when Seinfeld roars “step to the rhythm of the Brooklyn beat!” you just can’t help but smile because the quartet are in their element. They maybe veterans but they’ve got plenty of rage behind their eyes and as Graziadei and Seinfeld go toe to toe on “Eyes On Six” that much is clear. A Hardcore classic straight out of the “State of the World Address” era, it could easily slot into their live set without the band missing a beat.

A mid tempo chugger “Death Of Me” dances with the devil on the thirteenth floor with big rhythms and cathartic screams, the soloing from Bobby Hummel once again cutting through the dirge impressively. While this one is less of direct attack, it feels a bit more personal than the earlier cuts, something which shines through in the emotive qualities of the vocal performances. Circle pit worthy speed riffs flow free with “Word To The Wise“, Seinfeld’s gravelly rap-screams hitting home as an act of pure defiance. They’ve survived and their hear to tell the tale. The chamber spins for a classic from the streets where its survival of the fittest in “Fight To Be Free“, a tale of gangland violence with low slung clanky bass at the forefront. This one has instant appeal with the catchy nature of the lyrical flow, the Misfits style part that bridges into the final third a high quality if unexpected show of influence. Biohazard got accused of straying into Nu-Metal in the 90’s with some of their introspective lyrics but in truth while cuts like “War Inside Me” speak of personal trauma, they’re more like the PTSD suffering Vietnam veteran expressing himself than any woe is me nonsense.

Thunderous percussion and tasty Hardcore grooves make “S.I.T.F.O.A” or to give it its full title “Strong In The Face Of Adversity” another powerhouse offering, loaded with gang chants and rap-screams as the band lean on their legacy to produce another scorcher. Yes it’s a little close to some of the things that Anthrax have put their name to but it works. It maybe a simple formula but its both lethally effective and fearfully addictive so be warned. There are Thrash vibes from the lead guitars in “Tear Down The Walls“, a tune that has an Iggor Cavalera inspired drum passage in the middle of it before the clenched fist of “I Will Overcome” tells it like it is. Powerful rhythms electrify as the band capture the energy of their live performances like lightening in a bottle and it has to be said that its another tune that would fit incredibly well into their live set in 2025. How they’ve managed to rekindle the flames of their classic sound in signature style is a mystery but the chemistry is undeniable even after all these years. “Warriors” is a testament to that, fleeting moments of older riffs appearing like hidden gems. Did anyone expect Biohazard to have the last laugh with a nostalgic throwback to their first three seminal albums in “Divided We Fall“? Could anyone have predicted an album infused with defiance, belligerence and righteous indignation where every song is an angry anthem? The warriors have returned! [7.5/10]

1. Fuck The System
2. Forsaken
3. Eyes On Six
4. Death Of Me
5. Word To The Wise
6. Fight To Be Free
7. War Inside Me
8. S.I.T.F.O.A

9. Tear Down The Walls
10. I Will Overcome
11. Warriors