Carla Harvey has been waiting patiently for her debut EP to arrive, and it has finally made its way into fans’ hands. The Violent Hour is Harvey’s (ex-Butcher Babies) and Charlie Benante’s (Anthrax / Pantera) creation. Both co-wrote the songs while Benante (usually known for his drumming) played every instrument on the album. Harvey’s vocals mixed with punk, old school hard rock, alternative, and heavy-sounding music make for an interesting journey for the listeners.

The Violent Hour EP dropped July 25, 2025, on Megaforce Records. Starting the EP off is “Sick Ones” featuring John 5. It’s a hard rock song with a punk vibe running through the drums and bass. Harvey’s vocals are powerful and at one point turn to haunting laughter followed by screams. John 5 provides an invigorating, soaring guitar performance, proving to be a great way to introduce the EP.

“Hell or Hollywood,” featuring Zakk Wyde, brings about a gritty 1980s hard rock aura. It takes the listener on a rock and roll ride with Harvey’s passionate vocals mixed with a side of sexy undertones. Wyde’s guitar playing shows off true riffs reminiscent of some of the best solos of the hair metal band era.

Next up is a song with an alternative bluegrass feel, “Portland, Oregon” featuring Brandon Yeagley. It is a refreshing song with a full-on slide guitar introduction with steady drums and bass. Harvey and Yeagley trade off vocals throughout the song. The dueling sounds of their voices is truly a well-built machine that makes for a truly unique sounding experience for the listeners.

“Sex and Cigarettes” feels like an old-school punk song, made up of a strong vocal performance by Harvey. The EP, in general, although inspired by Harvey’s strong passion for bands such as Guns n’ Roses, there is definitely a silent nod to the female artists of the 1970s and 1980, such as The Runaways and Blondie.

The last song on the EP, “The Violent Hour,” is the most powerful and moving one.  It’s a slow song full of guitar strumming and vulnerable vocals.  It’s a passionate tune that feels unique and heartfelt. Harvey shows off her diverse singing skills.

The Violent Hour truly is a special formation. Harvey and Benante created a masterpiece of songs on the EP.  It has a distinctive sound running through every song. The long journey for Harvey’s EP to be created was well worth it. The EP is something special and not like anything fans will expect from Harvey’s previous traditional-sounding music. This truly is a breath of fresh air and one anyone who is a fan of music should take a listen to. 

The Violent Hour self-titled debut EP is available to order at this location. 

Alexis Coleman

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