SWORN ENEMY “As Real As It Gets”
I admit, seeing hardcore bands on major labels does make me a bit uncomfortable. I’m always wondering if the label is going to promote the release and band to the community that cares to listen, or if they’re just going to put it out and forget about it. Well, I hope Elektra puts a lot of effort behind SWORN ENEMY because this is one crushing disc that should appeal to both hardcore kids and metalheads alike, with nary a bit of hesitation. To set it straight, “As Real As It Gets,” is ridiculously heavy at points, smacking with some of the brutalist breakdowns this side of HATEBREED, and retains a metallic production style that emphasizes raw power over dirty aggression. The guitars crunch with such a taut reflex, it feels like someone’s jabbing a wrench into your eye-socket. “As Real As It Gets” consists of ten tracks that cover almost exactly 30 minutes of pain and pleasure. There’s a lot of pride dripping out of this Queens, New York outfit, and they don’t let the listener forget this band’s hometown roots. Much like SICK OF IT ALL on “Just Look Around,” a strong emphasis on the more metallic aspects of the band’s sound shine through, yet it’s the hardcore passion and energy that carries the triumphant punch. Surprisingly, there’s a decent amount of melody to be found in the screeching vocals (that are similar to FALL SILENT) and the occasionaly concurrent background vocals. Every now and them, the vocalist switches from screaming into that “hardcore talking voice,” and when in tandem with that “you know the breakdown is coming – watch the fuck out” tremor…the listening senses are sure to hit overload. I didn’t get a lyric sheet with this, but the lyrics fall decidedly into that personal anger range, thankfully though, it does not appear to be aimed towards the “Mommy doesn’t love me crowd.” “As Real As It Gets” is some quality, pit-friendly stuff, and both hardcore and metal fans should warm up to the mosh instantaneously.
Elektra
