Colony Drop – Brace for Impact

Seattle crossover thrashers Colony Drop crash land onto the scene with their debut album, “Brace for Impact.” This record is a potent cocktail of classic thrash influences, modern mosh breakdowns, and a healthy dose of sci-fi themes. Let’s buckle up and dissect “Brace for Impact” track by track, seeing if Colony Drop delivers a sonic earthquake.

Track-by-Track Thrashing Odyssey:

• Colony Drop (Brace for Impact): The album kicks off with a self-titled explosion. Breakneck drumming, pummeling riffs, and Joseph Schafer’s aggressive vocals set the aggressive tone. Dual guitar leads from Benjamin Burton and Ryan Moon weave a tapestry of shred that would make any 80s thrasher proud.
• Remade: This track throws in a curveball. A slower tempo intro with a melodic guitar line gives way to a more groove-oriented approach. The chorus is catchy and mosh-worthy, showcasing the band’s ability to balance aggression with accessibility.
• Stand Against the World: A return to pure thrash fury. This track is a fast-paced assault on the senses, with blast beats and galloping riffs that will get even the most jaded headbanger moving. The lyrics, presumably about societal rebellion, are delivered with raw intensity.
• Supplicant: This track delves into a darker soundscape. Distorted guitars and eerie melodies create a sense of unease, perfectly fitting the sci-fi themes explored throughout the album. Schafer’s vocals take on a more menacing tone, adding to the atmosphere.
• The Clockwork Grip: The thrashing momentum continues here. This track is a technical showcase, with intricate guitar work and lightning-fast drumming. The tempo shifts keep things interesting, showcasing Colony Drop’s songwriting prowess.
• Heartfelt (Interlude): A brief instrumental interlude provides a moment of respite. Ominous chords and atmospheric synths create a sense of tension, setting the stage for the sonic assault to come.
• Heartwrench: This track picks up the pace with a vengeance. Fast tempos, crushing riffs, and Schafer’s snarling vocals create a sense of urgency. The lyrics, potentially about loss and resilience, resonate despite their brevity.
• Patient Xero: Another fast-paced thrasher emerges here. This track is a mosh pit starter, guaranteed to get fists pumping with its relentless energy. The breakdown in the middle of the song is particularly brutal, a perfect example of modern thrash influences.
• The Guillotine: This track throws in a hardcore punk influence. D-beat drumming and shouted vocals create a chaotic soundscape, adding a touch of variety to the album’s thrash foundation. The lyrics, presumably about societal overthrow, are delivered with raw aggression.
• Fantasize the Beast: The album closes with an epic journey. This track starts slow and brooding, before exploding into a final display of thrashing fury. The guitar solo is a highlight, showcasing Moon and Burton’s impressive technical skills. The final note fades out, leaving the listener wanting more.

Verdict: 4.5 out of 5

“Brace for Impact” is a triumphant debut for Colony Drop. The album is a love letter to classic thrash metal, infused with enough modern touches to keep things fresh. The songwriting is strong, with each track delivering a potent dose of aggression and melody. The musicianship is top-notch, and the vocals are perfectly suited to the band’s sound.

A minor point to consider: Listeners unfamiliar with thrash metal might find the relentless aggression a bit overwhelming.

However, for fans of bands like Slayer, Iron Age, and Power Trip, “Brace for Impact” is a must-listen. Colony Drop has delivered a debut album that is both a nostalgic throwback and a potent statement of intent. This band is one to watch, and their sonic assault is sure to leave a lasting impression.