Sins Of Release by Enrage: A Hardcore Rock Time Capsule from ‘93 That Still Kicks Ass
Alright, so picture this: it’s 1993, grunge is kinda peaking but not done yet, and out of the US hardcore scene comes Sins Of Release by Enrage. Released on Tragic Life Records (twice—don’t ask me why) and O Great Blue Thing Records, this album feels like a punch to the gut in all the best ways. Produced with grit by Michael Gibbons and co-produced by the band themselves, it’s raw, unfiltered, and straight-up mean when it needs to be.
Let’s dive into two tracks that’ll stick with you longer than your ex’s weird habits.
First up, “My Hands.” Oh man, this one grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. It starts off with this chugging guitar riff that sounds like someone revving an old Chevy while pissed off at traffic. Then the vocals hit—you can practically hear the sweat dripping down the mic. What makes “My Hands” unforgettable? Probably how chaotic it feels without losing its groove. Like yeah, everything's falling apart, but hey, at least we’re doing it together. By the time the breakdown hits, you’re either headbanging or questioning every life choice that led you here. Either way, mission accomplished.
Then there’s the title track, “Sins Of Release.” This song is basically what would happen if Nirvana decided they hated their parents and their therapist. The opening chords are deceptively simple, lulling you into thinking you’re safe before BAM—it explodes into this relentless fury of drums and screaming. Mixed by Noah Evans, the sound has this dirty edge to it, like it was recorded in someone’s garage during a power outage. And honestly? That’s what makes it work. There’s no frills, no overproduction—just pure, untamed emotion. I dare you to listen to this and not feel something bubbling up inside you. Anger? Joy? Hunger? Who knows!
Now, let’s talk credits real quick because John Granite’s photography deserves props. Whoever thought a black-and-white photo of a broken window could capture the vibe of an entire album was onto something. Also, shoutout to Enrage for keeping creative control as co-producers. You can tell these guys knew exactly what they wanted, even if that meant making everyone uncomfortable along the way.
So where does Sins Of Release stand today? Honestly, it’s like finding an old mixtape in your car’s glove compartment years later. Sure, some parts might feel dated, but the energy still slaps harder than most modern stuff pretending to be edgy. Listening to this album reminds me that rock music used to have teeth—and sometimes, those teeth bit back.
Final thought: If Enrage ever reunites, I hope they do it somewhere outside… preferably near a dumpster fire. Because nothing says "hardcore" quite like literal flames lighting up the stage.
