Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Aftermath – There is Something Wrong (Zoid Entertainment)




After nearly a lifetime away Aftermath is back with a brand-new album.  Many newer fans may have a difficult time understanding where the band may be coming from whereas as the long-time fans will get it right away.  The reason for that is that Eyes of Tomorrow album was the only recording available from Aftermath for many years, and everyone assumed that’s the way the band always sounded.  Wrong!  Aftermath was a speedcore band upon their formation, and as the time went on, they matured and changed.  The new album offers a fine mix between the old and new with more push towards harder and faster material.  In recent years, the old Aftermath recordings are surfacing again, so the fans may get to know the whole history.

This is a very interesting record.  Not only is it musically intense but it bears a very deep lyrical message.  As the life went on, the band members found themselves questioning the reality, politics, and all shady deals that go on under the table.  It does not produce a pretty picture, and that’s what Aftermath is focusing on this album.  It’s all one big conspiracy in the eyes of (tomorrow.)  The lyrics will certainly make you think, and question your immediate surroundings.  Also, the manner in which it is delivered is very angry and in your face.   

Despite the long absence from the scene the band still sounds technically superb.  Instrumentally, the band members deliver the goods on every single track.  Singer, Kyriakos-Charlie Tsiolis, adjusts his delivery and tone to fit the individual tracks.  Tsiolis works hard here to get his point across, and his performance truly reflects that.  Drummer, Ray Schmidt, is just unstoppable.  One of the fastest drummers ever, and his attention to detail is second to none.  Guitarist, Steve Sacco, just burns with plethora of riffs, some at a break-neck speed.  Bassist, George Nektarios Lagis, completes the line up with a very solid bottom end.  Aftermath is a well-oiled machine ready to go to war!

There is Something Wrong is a record that requires a lot from the listener.  It’s also a record that opens a new perspective with each listen.  It does make you feel very uncomfortable at times, and it’s like a code that needs to be broken.  And that’s your job as a listener.  The album feels very fresh, and very much apart from what we are being served in 2019.  Intriguing and very much against the current!

Mark Kadzielawa

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