Damnation - Resist the Thought Review



Listen up metal heads: Do you remember your first breakdown experience?  When suddenly, after a blastbeat pummeling, the song dropped tempo and a low growl keyed a slow, vicious, rhythmic guitar chugging that was physically impossible to ignore.  I’m willing to bet it stirred something deep within yourself, some primordial feeling of basking in the presence of pure power and the complete catharsis of emotion.  Yes, that first breakdown was quite a moving experience, and embodies what metal (at least modern metal) is all about.  Unfortunately, the current scene has become so inundated with popularity, clichés, faux ferocity and money that metal’s original meaning has become lost.  Fans have long been searching for that next band that will bring back the excitement and musicianship that once was so commonplace.

            Hailing from musical Australia, quintet Resist the Thought looks to do just that on their latest release, Damnation.  From the opening bars of the opening track, it’s clear that the band is not willing to compromise anything in the face of recording the most vicious, passionate, and headturning deathcore/metalcore album since Count Your Blessings.  Pounding blastbeats, polished guitar work, and impressive vocals characterize every track, and though it is a short album, it seems incredibly complete.  Those of you looking for deathcore brutality will certainly find it on tracks such as “The Risen” where vocalist Rhys Giles showcases his deep low to instigate a growl filled chug that is sure to inspire fierce mosh pits.       

            In fact, Resist the Thought write some of the most urgent and interesting breakdowns that this author has heard all year.  No metal album has been able to hold attention quite like this one, mostly due to the high level of musicianship.  Don’t believe me?  Simply listen to the acoustic and electric introspection of “Exitium,” which is sure to recall a thoughtful Metallica.  Winding guitar, attractive progressions, and clever drumming (especially with the cymbals) keep Damnation a surprising, engaging listen.  Combine this with incredible breakdowns that always come suddenly and stay forcefully, and you have one of the greatest metal albums of the year. 

            Damnation is a sophomore release that should mark Resist the Thought as a very promising band that has already set the bar high.  The band so cleanly bridges deathcore and metalcore that they are sure to attract a wide range of fans drawing from Chelsea Grin followers as well as As I Lay Dying fans.  However, its clear that Resist the Thought aren’t concerned with any type of genre label.  When Giles menacingly chants, “Run to the hills, cover up your eyes, for the reaper awaits you,” the message is clear: Resist the Thought is here to restore metal to its proper place.  

Key Tracks: “Misery’s Miscreation,” “Reflections” “The Risen”