For God And Government,
Death ThreatEvery so often a band comes along and helps to revitalise a scene. In this case Death Threat have come up with an album which will give 'punk' the kick up the arse that it needs. It's bold, pissed off and refreshingly means something, giving a definite tonic to the Blink 182-generation of mini-punks.
Death Threat live, sleep, eat and shit hardcore. The word 'unity' really does apply to bands like this, and it is refreshing (and it shouldn't be this way) to see a band with something to say make a record that is vitally important. That's not to say that this is the greatest hardcore record that you will ever come across, because it isn't. It can be a bit generic, with the guitar tone becoming a bit boring and repetitive across the length of the cd. But in short, sharp bursts, this is one fucking great record.
Opener 'For God And Government' sets the tone for the entire 25 minute speaker assault. It's short, sharp and to the point, with the guitars and vocals providing a sonic blast which mugs your eardrums. 'Spit It Out'continues where the previous track left off, with the refrain "this is my life" really ringing true amongst hardcore fans. 'As One We Stand' comes across like old-skool Pennywise at their most aggressive, with more than a hint of Fletcher Dragge to the guitars and Aaron's vocals do bear a hint to Jim Lindberg. "This is our scene, it's what we breathe," they yell, and Death Threat aren't wrong.
'The Time Is Now' is a big two-fingered salute, and 'Watch Your Mouth' is a tad more accessible than some of the other tracks. But it's still great to see a band that actually have something to say. Sure, it's ok hearing all these bands that keep getting their hearts broken, but once in a while you need to hear the truth. This is the sound of the streets and its real life issues. 'Still Alone' is the first disappointment, sounding a bit too much like most of the other tracks here, and the lyrics aren't as clever or thoughtful as some of the others.
'Bombs Will Fly' is yet another sonic assault that spits venom from your stereo, but the band are at their best when they sing about the 'scene', and about individuality. "We will live life for ourselves and no one else," Aaron yells, and this sums up Death Threat in one sentence. 'Known All Along' is 80 seconds of aggressive hardcore, as is 'Broke And Bummed Out', which again points out that this band is more than music. This is a way of life. 'Bombshell' is the most melodic track here and the band cover the Operation Ivy classic reasonably well. It does tend to stick out a bit though, even if it is a good track.
Politics remain high on the agenda with the brutal 'Last To Know,' and 'The Path I Chose' is decent enough, although it is beginning to sound a bit samey by this point. Still, at just 25 minutes long, this record certainly does not outstay its welcome. Closing with the aptly titled 'No Farewell', lyrically this song really does show you just what this band is all about. "Hardcore is here to stay with us to our dying days, and the kids will have their say once again," they yell, and by this point I don't need convincing further that the band are right. Ending with "I hope I live to tell the tale," is further proof that this lot are pretty fucking vital right now.
This is a wonderfully refreshing record that stands out today amongst a sea of piss-poor watered down 'punk' bands, made for the MTV-generation. If you want to listen to a CD that has something to say, something with balls, give Death Threat a chance. But remember kids, hardcore is for life, not just for Christmas...
Paul Savage
