Hounds Of Aggression by Strident: A Thrash Gem from Down Under
Strident’s Hounds Of Aggression isn’t your run-of-the-mill thrash album—it’s a raw, unfiltered punch to the gut that screams 90s Aussie rock attitude. Released in 1996 as a self-released effort (props to them for doing it their way), this record doesn’t rely on flashy production or big-label backing. Instead, it delivers gritty riffs, relentless energy, and lyrics that stick like gum on a hot sidewalk.
The opening track, “Wolf,” grabs you by the collar right outta the gate. It’s fast, furious, and packed with razor-sharp guitar work that feels like it could cut glass. What makes “Wolf” memorable is its primal vibe—it’s not just music; it’s an adrenaline rush. You can almost picture the band crammed into some dingy rehearsal space, sweat dripping as they hammer out these killer riffs. The chorus hits hard too, simple but effective enough to get stuck in your head for days.
Then there’s “Get A Dog Up Ya,” which might have one of the most bizarrely unforgettable titles ever. This track stands out because it blends humor with aggression—a combo that shouldn’t work but totally does. The riffing here is relentless, and the vocals are spit out with such venom that you can’t help but bang your head along. There’s something oddly cathartic about screaming along to lines that feel like pure rebellion distilled into three minutes of chaos.
Tracks like “Warhead” and “Mind-Thief” keep the momentum going strong, while slower cuts like “Keeper Of The Keys” show off the band’s ability to mix things up without losing their edge. And let’s not forget “A Taste For Death”—a grim title matched by equally dark vibes, proving Strident knows how to balance speed with atmosphere.
What’s wild about Hounds Of Aggression is how authentic it feels. These guys weren’t chasing trends—they were making the kind of music they wanted to hear. Sure, the production has that DIY roughness around the edges, but honestly? That just adds character. It’s refreshing in an era where so much metal tries too hard to be polished and perfect.
Looking back, it’s kinda crazy that this album flew under the radar for so many years. Maybe it’s because it came out at a time when grunge was still lingering and nu-metal was starting to rear its ugly head. But hey, good music always finds its audience eventually, even if it takes decades.
So yeah, give Hounds Of Aggression a spin if you’re into thrash that doesn’t mess around. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself yelling “Get A Dog Up Ya!” during random moments throughout your day.
