Rising from the abyss, one of the finest, fiercest new bands I have ever heard is The Agony Scene. Their self-titled 2003 debut, released on Solid State Records, is sheer, perfect aggression. There are many elements at work in The Agony Scene sound, and they execute them all brilliantly.
This Oklahoma band shows no vulnerability. Flawlessly fusing together the dynamics of Metalcore, Swedish Style Death Metal, Deathrock, and slight inflections of Melodic Hardcore and Black Metal, The Agony Scene creates a hellish beauty beyond the depths of glory. Guttural growls, chaotic shrieks, and a few clean vocals hammer through intense, caustic guitars. Rhythms are extremely tight, but catchy. A few samples are lightly used. The Agony Scene is absolutely amazing, with an addictive, brutal edge.
This best of this incredible collection of tracks includes the eviscerating beat of “Vivid,” “We Bury Our Dead At Dawn,” “Eyes Sewn Shut,” the bludgeoning “Habeas Corpus,” and “Nausea.” But the most stunning cut has to be their rendition of the Rolling Stones‘ classic “Paint It Black.” (It gave me the chills.)
In summary, The Agony Scene is one of the BEST NEW BANDS of 2003. They have what it takes to be legendary, not just great. The Agony Scene is one that should not be missed. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Zao, Black Dahlia Murder, Sworn Enemy, Living Sacrifice, Demon Hunter, Arch Enemy, Internal Bleeding, Soilwork, Transport League, Darkest Hour, Enbodyment, Entombed, Carcass, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. War.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2003.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.
