Philippine hard rock band the Breed formed in the mid-'80s and was given a chance to record an album about a decade later. In 1995, they released their debut album, Free. The experience the band has garnered is evident, as Free is an excellent album, and features a tight, cohesive sound. The lyrics mostly address societal concerns and deal with such issues as poverty, greed, and moral decay. The music is hard-edged and gritty and provides a strong medium for the conveyance of the band's societal concerns. Many songs were written by Manny Amador, who is also the band's lead guitarist. Manny Amador's guitar playing is outstanding, and his fiery solos and imaginative riffs propel the band's powerful sound. Vocalist Charlie Ysmael has a strong voice and he contributes some lyrics as well. Bassist John Besa also contributes to the songwriting.
"Black Mercedes Benz" is a forceful song, both in the music and lyrics. The song contains a penetrating melody set amidst hard-edged guitar riffs and chords and deals with the indifference of the rich to the suffering of the poor: "People fighting/People crying/People trying to get their hands on you/People dying of starvation/What are you gonna do?/Riding high in a black Mercedes Benz." "Ode to the Common Man" contains heavy, Black Sabbath-type chords, as well as searing lead guitar, and tells of experiences faced by everyday people. Free is an excellent hard rock album.
