I wasn’t expecting much from this, the debut of Denmark’s Roarback. I mean the moniker, the cover art all screamed old school thrash, which really isn’t my cup of tea. However, the old adage about books and covers came into play, as Echoes of Pain ended up being a kickass little old school death/thrash record.

Though comprised of competent 19-20 years old, the band’s elder statesman vocalist Dennis Ullehus really carries the band. His old school voice is a mix of Glen Benton (Deicide), Jan C (Gorefest), Hal Shore (Burnt Offering) and Kyle Symons (Malevolent Creation/Hateplow) . And the band’s music is equally old school mic of thrash and death metal culling from the likes of Slayer, Sepultura, Possessed and early Death metal like Benediction and the young Florida scene. It all comes together for a high energy, enjoyable release that’s a nice break from everything brootal, clinical or techy.

The whole affair sits confidently astride death and thrash metal with equal parts white top sneaker,  chunky, canter and a dash of extremity here and there to keep it a little more aggressive and certainly much more enjoyable for me. Though 19-20 old kids, the players certainly know their way around old school riffs, structures, production and lyrics, as all the songs have this musty but meaty 1988-1990 aura that’s not forced or piece meal retro. These kids have done their home work, and found a vocalist who cements the sound they are going for perfectly.

The likes of “Voices of Deception”, “Manor of Hatred”, “Systematically Murdered”,”Face the Sun”, “Echoes of Pain”, chug, groove and gallop with aplomb and an affable presence that’s simple and easy to listen to and enjoy. It isn’t trying too hard to be retro or nostalgic, but it hits the mark with a natural presence and delivery that’s hard not to like of you like the old school.

[Visit the band's website]

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