The Black Box Recordings-released debut full-length from NYC's ASRA (Alleged Satanic Ritual Abuse) tears through 11 tracks of completely and totally fucking badass death metal-infused grind in a mere 22 minutes. Legendary bands like Assück, Napalm Death, Man is the Bastard, and Discordance Axis seem to get thrown around frequently in press materials related to ASRA, and I actually can't argue with that at all. From the blasting, super tight drumming to the thick riffs that balance tactful speeds and intense grooves, or the maniacal vocals that shift effortlessly from burly growls to fierce sneers, snarls, or shrieks, it's all here, and it all fucking rules. The songwriting's memorable without lacking a shred of intensity, the recording's gritty and textured but still forceful and crisp… I mean, shit, it's just everything anyone should ever want out of a grindcore record. Even the cover art is fucking great! I can't speak to the lyrical content because the promo didn't come with lyrics, but judging from the song titles I'd say there's nothing to worry about in that department either. So, yeah… fucking perfection. I love it.

ASRA "Human Construct"

This one's available on both CD and vinyl, but I don't think the CD pressing is out just yet (though it should be available within the next few days). However, it looks like the limited edition clear vinyl pressing comes with a CD of the tracks or something like that, so… pick this shit up if you like what you hear. I'm already looking forward to hearing more from these cats.

Purchase:

@ Black Box Recordings
@ Relapse Records