Hypothermia

Insinnerator comes from the thrash-rich state of Texas, and despite their home location, they play music that is icy cold. Each subsequent release by the band has shown a significant improvement in terms of both production and songwriting, and this is particularly evident on their latest release “Hypothermia”. This 5-track EP is a punch to the face of riff-heavy thrash. There is little doubt that Insinnerator takes influence from bands like Sepultura and Dark Angel, who just pummel the listener over and over with fast riffs. To go along with this speed, bassist and frontman Brutal Ben does his best to unleash words faster than any human possible. On “Burned Alive” he spits out an absurd number of words per minute. Much like an extensive guitar solo, the technicality of these passages is almost surpassed by the exercise in memory that they require. Ben’s approach to vocals is standard: yell angrily as much as possible, and throw in the occasional Schmier/Araya-styled scream. This is just enough variety to keep things interesting, and his normal thrash bark is definitely among the more unique in the style.

“Hypothermia” is a relatively predictable release throughout. Insinnerator only takes their foot off the gas for a short interlude in the form of the title track. This song is an atmospheric keyboard/bass/acoustic piece that is far more interesting than most interludes, which are a bit more one dimensional. Knowing guitarist Christopher Atomic Thrasher’s love of the Legend of Zelda series, there’s no doubt that the start of this song was influenced by the music of the Ice Cavern from Ocarina of Time. The track progresses to incorporate more bass and guitar playing, but ultimately, the entire song is driven by the stellar atmosphere that is created.

That slight musical deviation aside, “Hypothermia” continues the assault it began with the first two songs. “Elemental Ice Dragon” actually shows the band offering a more melodic chorus, not unlike something you might get from a band like Metallica (rather than the Slayer-esque approach taken on the rest of the record). This is a major plus because it shows that the band can mix things up a little bit, without sacrificing any of their core sound. Another solid element of this band is the production. Though Insinnerator’s riffs are far superior to those of most other thrash bands, it is the sound quality that helps lift this EP even further. The band has the volume of more modern production, but things aren’t quite as clean. Instead, there is a barrage of distortion and noise aimed at the listener. It’s easy enough to understand what is going on, but this release is not for the faint of heart. If you dig thrash with pummeling aggression and just a hint of originality, “Hypothermia” is a must-listen.