Album Review: The Lost Tape 1999 by Seasons Of Torment
Released in 2008 under Brise-Cul Records, The Lost Tape 1999 by Canadian hardcore rock outfit Seasons Of Torment is a gritty time capsule of raw energy and unfiltered emotion. This album doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it grabs you by the collar and demands your attention with its relentless intensity.
At its core, this record thrives on the chemistry between its members. Bassist Jeff lays down thunderous grooves, while Carol and Francis trade guitar riffs that feel like punches to the gut. Fredo’s drumming is tight yet chaotic, perfectly complementing Martin’s raspy, impassioned vocals. And let’s not forget Martin Sasseville’s mysterious “other” contributions—whatever they are, they add an extra layer of intrigue.
Two tracks stand out for different reasons. First up is “La Chasse.” It opens with a menacing bassline that sets the tone before exploding into a wall of sound. The lyrics aren’t groundbreaking—they’re more guttural cries than poetry—but there’s something hypnotic about how it all comes together. By the end, you’re left breathless, like you’ve just survived a sprint through a storm. Then there’s “Starscream,” which leans harder into melody without losing the band’s trademark aggression. There’s a moment midway where the guitars drop out entirely, leaving only haunting feedback and Martin’s voice. Honestly? It gave me chills.
What makes The Lost Tape 1999 memorable isn’t perfection—it’s personality. Sure, some transitions feel clunky, and the live version of “Seasons Of Torment” feels tacked on rather than essential. But these imperfections give the album character. You can almost picture the cramped rehearsal space where these songs were born, sweat dripping onto cracked cymbals and worn fretboards.
In a world obsessed with polished production, Seasons Of Torment remind us that music doesn’t need to be flawless to hit hard. Listening to this album feels like finding an old mixtape at the bottom of a drawer—unexpected, rough around the edges, but impossible to ignore.
And hey, if nothing else, it proves Canadians do more than maple syrup and politeness. Who knew?
