Upon first listen about 12 years ago, this album was the beginning for me and my first introduction into the genre of grindcore. This album still remains my favorite after all these years. The opening track “Evolved as One” sets a weird Swans esque apocalyptic tone, which also closes the record out as well. Don’t let that fool you though, because what starts as dark and slow immediately beats you into the ground with fast chaotic drumming, down tuned heavy guitars, fuzzed bass and the high pitched shrieks and guttural growls. The musical ensemble of drummer Mick Harris, guitarist Bill Steer and bassist Shane Embury fuel the chaos of the machine, while vocalist Lee Dorian’s trademark vocals speak the message at hand. Even though this isn’t the most well produced record sound quality wise, it’s still a great record none the less. It captures the band at their youth and inexperience that everyone who’s ever been in a band knows about. These were 4 angry youths coming together, creating something that possibly in their minds might have never went anywhere. It eventually lead to inspire countless others and has also led the band and its members on promising careers, leaving Embury being the only original member. This is a record for the ages, and I’m sure it will continue to inspire others introduced into the genre for years to come. Key tracks are “Unchallenged Hate”, “Retreat to Nowhere”, “It’s a M.A.N.S world”, Cock Rock Alienation” and “Dead”.
This will be the final review I'll be doing for the year. Next year will bring a new era for Cryptic Inscriptions with articles concerning various current events, conspiracy theories etc. Happy holidays and a happy new year to all....
