From These Ashes by Digression: A Hardcore Gem That Still Kicks Ass (1997)
Let’s get one thing straight—hardcore rock isn’t for everyone. It’s loud, it’s raw, and sometimes it feels like your eardrums are being pummeled by a stampede of angry bulls. But if you’re into that kind of chaos, From These Ashes by Canadian band Digression is an absolute banger from start to finish. Released in 1997 under Endless Records, this album doesn’t just deliver—it punches you square in the gut and leaves you begging for more.
First off, kudos to the producers: Digression themselves alongside Mark Miner. They clearly knew what they were doing because every track hits hard without losing its soul. The album kicks off with “Encased In Amber,” which sets the tone perfectly—a mix of aggression and melody that makes you wanna smash something but also feel all deep about it afterward. Then there’s “Our Fragile Bonds,” my personal favorite. This song sticks out not just because of its killer riffs but because it somehow manages to balance sheer brutality with moments of almost tender reflection. You can practically hear the band saying, “Yeah, life sucks, but hey, we’re still here.”
Now, don’t get me wrong; the whole album slaps. Tracks like “Sever” and “Torrent” keep the energy high, while songs like “…From This” add layers of complexity that make you think maybe these guys weren’t just throwing stuff at the wall to see what stuck. But honestly? If I had to pick another standout, it’d be “Untold Story.” Something about the way it builds up and then explodes into pure catharsis feels like therapy wrapped in distortion pedals.
What really makes From These Ashes stand out is how unapologetically human it feels. Sure, it’s hardcore as hell, but beneath all the screaming and shredding, there’s a vulnerability that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Like finding a heartfelt note scrawled on the back of a bar napkin after a wild night out.
So yeah, if you’re looking for some good ol’ Canadian hardcore rock that’ll leave your ears ringing and your heart pounding, give this album a spin. Just maybe warn your neighbors first—you know, so they don’t call the cops thinking World War III has started in your living room.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like watching a phoenix rise from the ashes, only to realize halfway through that the bird might actually be drunk. And honestly? That’s exactly why I love it.
