The debut full-length from California's Violation on 1917 Records, "Devoured" cranks out 11 tracks in about 22 minutes and offers up the same top-notch, thrash-laden metallic hardcore you'd expected based on the strengths of last year's "Possessed" EP, which was my first exposure to the band. Damn near all of the songs are about two minutes or less, based around straightforward, thashy picking patterns and bursts of speed amidst traditionally basic midpaced metallic hardcore rhythms, occasionally tossing in subtly more metal-based runs or even quick solos. The vocals are mixed a touch loud, but part of that comes from the fact that they've got a rawer and more in your face approach going on, which would've been equally forceful even without the slight bump in volume. It's not a setback, though. Other than the fact that I'd like to be able to hear more of what the basslines are doing back there, the recording sounds pretty damn good, and quite effective for what they're presenting. The songs deliver, too, with just the right amount of the groove that a lot of these contemporary hardcore acts are bringing back, and plenty of furious rage, so... what more could you ask for, really?
Violation "Disillusioned"
Violation "No Solace"
Get It
1917 Records (CD)
1917 Records (LP)
1917 Records (mp3)
eMusic (mp3)
Comments
Definitely impressed with this one. I agree that the vocals are too loud in the mix. Still one of the better hardcore releases of ‘08. Have you checked out “Deal With It”‘s new one? It has Ed Repka art, might be worth checking out.
10.7.2008 | By Zach
deal with it “end time prophecies” - best HC LP of 2008.
10.11.2008 | By Ben
Yep, good HxC album, not a classic but a very sincere and decent release !
Buy this one !
4.2.2009 | By Sax