Don't Give In
Cro-Mags
•
August 5, 2019
CRO-MAGS is a classic Crossover band from New York. Everyone from METALLICA to NIRVANA has praised them in the press. Plus, they have an all-star line-up with the mighty Rocky George on lead guitars.
What we have here is a solid three-tracks EP, with pristine production and correct performance from an iconic Crossover Thrash Metal band. Ironically, it sounds so fresh to hear a band tuning standard these days (maybe a half step lower, I don´t have a handy piano as I write). But, in the wicked universe of 8 string guitars and beyond, a straight forward tuning sounds revamped and more substantial here.
"Don't Give In" the opening track sounds massive, paving the way with metallic power chords, solid cymbals ambiance "micing" (kudos to the producer) and the booming gang vocals. I can hear every instrument in its proper place, and some lead guitar overdubs here and there.
"Drag You Under" has more of a Punk ethos with its consistent down picking riffs, pounding rhythm vocals rather than harmonious, and a steady hi-hat/bass drums/snare groove.
"No One's Victim" balances the "less is more" Punk creed with the JUDAS PRIEST minoresque riffs, combined with the ever recurrent massive gang vocals, keeping it real and simple.
Overall, this is a concise offering (no more than nine minutes), yet its lack of length it is surpassed by the abundance of attitude. I´d rather have this any day than an overplayed barrage of Djent polyrhythm wank. All hail the Hardcore champions and get ready to some mean moshing.
7 / 10
Good
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"Don't Give In" Track-listing:
1. Don't Give In
2. Drag You Under
3. No One's Victim
Cro-Mags Lineup:
Harley Flanagan - Bass, Vocals
Gabby Abularach - Rhythm Guitar
Rocky George - Lead Guitar
Garry "G-Man" Sullivan - Drums
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