Hellshock "Warlord" 7"
[Profane Existence]
Here's the latest EP from this killer "all star" outfit that combines all sorts of classic hardcore/punk and metal influences to create a sound that's sorely lacking in contemporary times. "Warlord" takes side A and begins with a killer dissonant intro with melodic basslines and arpeggiated guitar riffing in the classic crust sense (ala Misery or Extinction of Mankind in the mid-90's) - taking about a minute to build in and switch over to a speedy hardcore chord progression that has a couple of quick metal picking patterns in there. "Legion" then follows on side B and begins with some openly melodic guitars before quickly diving into a wall of total thrash metal that works great behind the gruff vocal shouts; while the chorus has more of a Discharge-esque ring to its chord progressions and note bends and whatnot, later cranking out a quick lead break. The recording is a little thinner than I'd prefer, giving the vocals a hint too much dominance in the mix as well, so some of their past work has sounded more efficient, but that doesn't detract from the power of their songwriting at all. As expected, the record (pressed on white vinyl) comes in a black and white sleeve with handwritten lettering that matches the strong visual aesthetic that the band has had in place from day one. The lyrics are dark and dismal and color an ugly picture in general: "We can see the world destroyed, don't strangle with your moral act, No sacrifice worthy, not nobility but profit margins, If another martyr to bleed is what you seek I choose you, Now spread your wings and die for me..." I really dig this band. Sure, they may be blatantly wearing their influences on their sleeve across the board, but they're damn good at what they do, and no one else is really doing this right now (at least not to this degree), especially in the US, and I really miss this particular niche of metallic crust punk that comes complete with a consistent and important visual accompaniment. They keep this one short as hell so it's over in a flash, and I'm definitely left wanting more. (7/10)
Running time - 7:00 (approximately), Tracks: 2
[Notable tracks: both are damn solid offerings]
Profane Existence - http://www.profaneexistence.com

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