Released on: 6th July 2018
Riotous Aussies Hidden Intent bring us their second full-length of conductive heavy metal tracks on Fear, Prey, Demise. A mighty atavistic album that harks back to the nineteen eighties righteous adoration of the quintessential anti-establishment soundtrack for a generation.
With its roots firmly set in the thrash metal of yore Fear, Prey, Demise brings it forward and updates the sound into a fresh package of killer riffs, blinding solos and classic harmonies. Never faltering to deliver a quick and swift succession of intense drum patterns coupled in with a blizzard of articulate notes from both the vocals and guitar.
While Fear, Prey, Demise could sit happily with thrash heavyweights like Sepultura, Slayer or even Annihilator during their heyday the upgraded production and decades of material to improve upon has given Hidden Intent more time to draw from. Forgoing the heady socio-political narratives that spurred many of the eighties giants they instead have fun with their craft. Developing a cogent album rich with raucous anthems.
Although in saying that maybe we just do not live in interesting times and everybody is struggling with slow news days (just look at how slow the kids in cages shit went down. Thanks Obama.) And in true fashion the message of the music reflects that. Hidden Intent might claim to be Addicted to Thrash but in reality maybe that is all there is. An almost Pavlovian fix of heavy metal music that will get your lips a drippin’ when you hear mega-awesome riffs.
Who cares about politics really. At least when there are awesome tunes to head bang your way into oblivion. Hidden Intent have at least got it down. Offering respite in a world scared of its own reflection. Fear, Prey, Demise is class.
8/10
