(c) Atrophy
Sometimes good things take a long, long time. Atrophy from Tucson, Arizona, released two thrash diamonds in the rough in the late 80s and early 90s, only to disappear from the stage in 1993. The comeback followed in 2016 with three original members; several line-up changes later, only frontman Brian Zimmerman remained from the original line-up. However, that doesn’t detract from the listening fun, because… „Asylum“the first album in 34 years, is a fat old-school thrash banger with Bay Area qualities.
Thematically, the band has hardly moved away from its roots and continues to deal with social injustices, rebellion and brainwashing. Songs like the opening “Punishment For All” convey the vehemence behind it very strongly and move forward with growing, rough enthusiasm. The thrash roots in the 80s can be seen, Zimmerman sounds as toxic as ever, and the riffs are served razor sharp. High tempo, smaller melodic parts and breakneck sections for well-tuned necks take no prisoners.
At the same time, Atrophy avoid relying completely on run-of-the-mill products. The start of the epic “Close My Eyes” with clear vocals and melodic guitar seems like a foreign body, but it’s incredibly fun. The fact that a rough wrecking ball that sheds its skin several times is hidden behind it fits into the picture. Angry stomping, drastic gestures and skilful unpredictability are somewhat reminiscent of the great Machine Head albums about 15 years ago. In “Seeds Of Sorrow”, however, the quintet relies on pressure, on leaden heaviness and a bit of groove in the middle – bumpy and yet incredibly exciting. The neck rotor rotates, the sheer force of the undertaking entertaining.
Atrophy stubbornly pull through, which suits them really well. As a band from the second to third big thrash wave, they don’t have to reinvent the wheel, but they still set one or two small scents between melodic sensitivity, subtle proggy undertones and angry groove. And yet “Asylum” is always fun when the US quintet goes forward regardless of losses and dismantles everything that is building up in front of them. Uncompromising thrash with clever songwriting, a lot of anger in the stomach and audible joy of playing makes this comeback a musical celebration. Hopefully it won’t be a one-off.
Rating: 8/10
Available from: March 15, 2024
Available via: Massacre Records (Soulfood Music)
Facebook: www.facebook.com/atrophyofficial
Category: Magazin, Reviews