On Criminal Record’s EP “Harmful Rhetoric”

Name: On Criminal Record’s EP “Harmful Rhetoric”
Item: Harmful Rhetoric
Author: Ethan Martin

BY ETHAN MARTIN · TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026

Harmful Rhetoric · EP · listen ↗

A singer bent over the microphone, shot from below in black and white. — Criminal Record at the microphone.

Polite would be just about the last word I would use to describe Criminal Record’s “Harmful Rhetoric”. All civility is blatantly ignored in favor of an in-your-face, violent cacophony. The visceral sound of their 4 song EP flies at you with all of the speed and force of a shotgun blast. Distorted guitars and pounding drums hit a full sprint about 14 seconds in, and they keep up the maniacal pace throughout. The opening track “WAR IN THE STREETS” has all the swagger of a band at the top of its game, bringing a confidence and attitude that is reminiscent of Sex Pistols. The guitar tones and riffs in particular are outstanding throughout the EP, and a good pairing with the harsh, compressed vocals. Overall it’s an excellent addition to the Indiana hardcore/punk scene, and another exciting EP from Criminal Record.

All civility is blatantly ignored in favor of an in-your-face, violent cacophony.

Two guitarists under green and orange stage light, the frame smeared with motion. — Criminal Record, mid-set.