Show of Force is a relatively new hardcore band from The Netherlands, and this seven-song, self-titled EP is their debut release for Real Recognizes Real Records. At least a couple of these guys have been around, though, as I learned while preparing this post that Show of Force contains the former vocalist and bassist of killer Dutch act Stone Cold, who released the crushing "Nothing Lasts" full-length on Gangstyle Records about eight years ago. Oddly enough I had pulled out "Nothing Lasts" recently and had wondered what ever happened to Stone Cold, and the majority of the remainder of their lineup actually has ties to this band: One of their former guitarists recorded this EP in his studio, and another of their ex-guitarists has since started the label that released this disc... as well as the primary distro that's selling it! Go figure!? But history aside, this is an absolutely raging EP that cranks out about 17 minutes of no bullshit metallic hardcore at the level of quality (and viciousness) that I've definitely become more accustomed to hearing from Europe than the US in recent years. Expect thick, chugging rhythms, thrashy bursts of speed as well as fast-paced power chords with a little old school hardcore flavor, tactfully slammin' breakdown grooves, and powerfully burly vocals. They don't fuck with the formula at all, and that's exactly how it should be done with this style of hardcore. The fact that they write killer tunes and have an exceptionally forceful recording certainly doesn't hurt, either. I wish every record of this nature had a sound this crisp and in your face. I'm all over this shit, and can't wait to hear more from these cats. I'm so glad some of these European bands are keeping this style alive in full fuckin' force...
Show of Force "Sentenced to Death"
This one's not set for an official release until next week, but you can pre-order it now. Hopefully it'll hit some US distros in the weeks following its release as well. This shit's just too damn good to fly under the radar!
Comments
Show of Force was a NY style hardcore band from the 80’s. They were great; it’s a shame that another band is using this name.
Change your name boys, it ain’t the same… Not a hater, just respect what came before.
http://www.blackoutrecords.com/blog/category/uncategorized/
~tone
9.4.2009 | By tone
maybe they didn’t know? it’s hard to pick some fresh name as there are so many used.
9.5.2009 | By Carlos