LIFE ABUSE - Systemization LP
I checked out this album when I heard that the bass player from END OF A YEAR/SELF DEFENSE FAMILY had a new band and it quickly became a recurring listen. I keep noticing cool parts and details I hadn’t before, which is rare for a straight forward punk record. LIFE ABUSE are from Albany, NY and they remind me of the type of bands that would be on something like Havoc Records, or that I’d read about in Heartattack Fanzine. Which is not surprising considering the members are veterans of that scene, having done time in bands like DEVOID OF FAITH, LIBYANS, LIMP WRIST, THE OATH…
The music is sometimes reminiscent of TALK IS POISON to my ears, or DEATHREAT, but with weird parts a la KILL THE MAN WHO QUESTIONS. I would even describe their sound as 'crust-adjacent', as there are some epic catchy riffs that wouldn't be out of place in a HIS HERO IS GONE or FROM ASHES RISE record; however the songs are a little more restrained and offer more diversity, while still remaining cohesive. This is an excellent record that I'm kind of obsessed with, more people need to check it out! I'm really hoping to get to see this band live.
Released on Armageddon Label.
Listen here: https://armageddonlabel.bandcamp.com/album/systematization
Gesche