Reviewed by Ian Webber

As a title, 'Unholy Anger' cannot really be bettered to describe the crushing onslaught from these Pittsburgh-based metallers. Laying down 11 brutal and violent tracks, Those Who Fear show that they are accomplished musicians. Formed in 2005, this is their first full length release and is packed to the brim with oppressive riffing guitars, violent drumming and vocals that rip and rasp their way through the recording with power. On top of solid musicianship, breakdowns litter the material suggesting Those Who Fear are most at home in a live setting. If you enjoy hardcore that dispenses with the need for any melody and circles through rhythmical repeated phrases in an aggressive manner, you will love the majority of what is on offer here. Opening with the impressive "Daggermouth", 'Unholy Anger' shows much promise. Stereo panning and no holds barred attack introduce us to this quintet. "(Un)Holy Anger" develops the theme leading into other pieces that deliver similar venom. This however, is where I have a problem with the album. There is a real lack of variation, leading to one track sounding very much like another. The quality of recording is first rate, adding excitement and atmosphere, but the unchanging rhythms, predictable breakdowns and lack of inventive spark hold this back from being a very good release. There is a potential here, but we may have to wait for future recordings for it to reveal itself.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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