Remember Breed 77? Prominent in the Nu-Metal era, their style fit nicely with their contemporaries at the time. But they had something different. The flamenco flourishes gave the band a sparkle others did not have. A hiatus in 2017 saw them disappear before they resurfaced in 2024. Now they are back with their new album, VII.
Breed 77 – VII
Release Date: 13 November 2026
Words: Paul Hutchings
A new line-up, but four of the old school remain. Paul Isola, Danny Felicie, Pedro Caparros and Stuart Cavillia are joined by drummer Adam Stanley. A well-received set at Bloodstock in 2025, along with new singles, End Of The Line, Outside and Just Act Like You Know, whetted the appetite of those who remember the likes of Cultura and Insects.
VII is unsurprisingly the band’s seventh album and opens with the double single End Of The Line and Outside. Both upbeat anthemic pieces, the opening of End Of The Line tips into the familiar style of hard riffs and powerful vocals.
It is track three where the reminders of why this band are a little different kick in. Flamenco guitars are liberally applied, as Isola drops into more native phrasing, showing the band’s Gibraltar roots. It has bite, though, a fierce lead break and some snarling vocals providing the contrast.
Over 11 tracks Breed 77 provide plenty to enjoy. Some of the songs are a little routine for me, such as the semi-ballad I Should’ve Let You Know, which could be delivered by one of a million bands in the classic rock genre. Wish You Well is heartfelt but a little sickly for me these days.
Ironically, the best songs on VII include the bouncing finale, Perdido (Lost) and the thumping I See Red, both of which see excellent performances from the band and Isola’s vocals. The latter has a neat change of tempo, some lovely subtle Spanish flourishes and a driving pace that makes it interesting.
Another fine piece of work is penultimate track Just Act Like You Know, with another set of chunky riffs giving way to some delicious Flamenco and a groove that really gets in deep.
Plenty to like, and whilst this album is not going to set my world alight, I will bet a few quid that this will do well. It has enough about it to appeal to those who may have transferred their loyalties to something heavier since the first time around, whilst those new to the band will find it an accessible listen.
For those who still know those other albums and have been hitting the band’s current UK tour, this is likely to be taken in with open arms. Do not be surprised to see Breed 77 in the UK plenty more in 2027. For more details, visit https://linktr.ee/breed77band.
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