Review Summary: I see no light, only darkness; Can't stand the fucking state we're in
Suburban Scum are a metallic hardcore band from New Jersey who have gotten quite a bit of attention in their scene. Not necessarily because they're all that different from other bands that have this punishing, somewhat desperate, and extremely pissed-off sound, but because they do it with the sort of passion and intensity that you don't come across very often in the sea of tough guys and hardcore dancers. Their previous 7" EP,
Internal War, was a good release in its own right but it wasn't very stand-out or memorable. On
Hanging By a Thread, they've made the riffs and breakdowns catchier, the guitar leads more frequent, the vocals more discernible but still as violent and intense as ever...music that's just fun to listen to, as familiar as it may be.
Even though probably nothing will blow your mind on this EP, it's impressively put together. The production is extremely crisp and clean sounding, giving every riff and drum fill an even stronger punch to the listener. Between the thrash-inspired riffs and the drumming that just plows down everything in its path, it feels like you're trapped inside of a steel cage with the band while they shake the ground with their massive sound. They don't need technicality, their sound is just as impressive.
As I mentioned before, few bands are making hardcore this punishing and intense while still having the mid-paced, chugging, riffing style that Suburban Scum do. Most likely, this is because they actually have something to say. Of course it's been said before, with lyrics covering things such as love, depression, and faith in humanity, but these guys are really passionate about what they're saying. No gimmicks, no bullsh*t, just straight up concern and anger. They have something they need to get off their chest, and they'll scream it at anyone who will listen. I'm glad I did; if you want something that'll get your blood flowing and make you want to break something expensive over an authority figure's head, I suggest you do the same.
