If you've been craving that authentic 90s punk sound that hits hard but still sticks in your head, L7's 'Bricks Are Heavy' is exactly what you need. This isn't just another album in the punk rock canon—it's a statement from a band that refused to be categorized, defined, or contained. When you put this on, you're not just hearing music; you're feeling the raw energy that made L7 one of the most formidable forces in alternative rock history.
'Bricks Are Heavy' finds L7 at their sweet spot, balancing the accessibility that made 'Pretend We're Dead' a mainstream hit with the abrasive guitar riffs and punk inflections that earned them their devoted following. The album opens with that iconic track, a perfect introduction to the band's signature sound—driving rhythms, distorted guitars, and Donita Sparks' powerful vocals that cut through the noise. But don't let the hit single fool you; this album is packed with tracks that showcase the band's range and intensity.
What makes this album truly special is how L7 approached their music with no apologies and no compromises. Songs like 'Wargasm' and 'Slide' are aggressive, roaring rockers that demand attention, while 'Diet Pill' and 'This Ain't Pleasure' emphasize the group's feminist slant with unflinching honesty. But here's the thing—L7 never let their message overshadow their music. They weren't women who played rock and roll; they were a rock and roll band that happened to be made up of women, and that distinction makes all the difference.
Decades after its release, 'Bricks Are Heavy' remains relevant because it captures something real and raw that so much modern music lacks. It's perfect for those late-night drives when you need something to match your mood, for workouts that require extra intensity, or for just understanding why the 90s punk scene was so damn important. The production has held up surprisingly well, with every guitar riff and drum hit hitting as hard as it did when this first dropped.
Whether you're discovering L7 for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, 'Bricks Are Heavy' delivers exactly what it promises: heavy, uncompromising rock that doesn't back down. It's the kind of album that reminds you why music can be such a powerful force, and why L7 earned their place in rock history as legends who refused to be boxed in.
