Album Review: Evolution by Sworn Amongst – Thrash That’ll Knock Your Socks Off
Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into Evolution, the 2011 thrash rock masterpiece from Sworn Amongst, released under Rising Records. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill headbanging fest—it’s more like a relentless punch to the eardrums, but in the best way possible. If you’re into riffs that shred harder than your old gym socks and vocals that sound like they’ve been dragged through gravel, this one’s for you.
Let’s get real for a second—this album doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it sure as hell polishes it until it gleams. The tracklist reads like a greatest hits collection of chaos, with songs like “Darkness (Re-Recording)” and “The Rules Of Engagement (Ft. Jeff Waters)” standing out like sore thumbs—in the coolest way imaginable.
First off, let’s talk about “Darkness (Re-Recording).” It’s not just some lazy rehash; nope, this version feels sharper, meaner, and ready to rumble. The riff hits you right outta the gate, like a caffeinated squirrel on steroids. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re already air-guitaring so hard you might pull a muscle. What makes this track stick? Maybe it’s how raw it feels, like the band decided, “Screw perfection—we’re going full throttle.” And honestly? I’m here for it.
Then there’s “The Rules Of Engagement,” featuring none other than Annihilator’s Jeff Waters. Now, if you don’t know who he is, go educate yourself immediately. His solo work here is pure fire—imagine someone took a lightning bolt and turned it into music. The song itself has this killer groove that worms its way into your brain and refuses to leave. Plus, the lyrics are sharp enough to cut glass, tackling themes of conflict and defiance without getting all preachy about it. You can practically hear the sweat dripping off the fretboard during those solos.
Other tracks like “Nowhere To Run” and “Severance” keep the energy cranked to eleven, while “The False Prophecy” throws in some unexpected twists, keeping listeners on their toes. But hey, let’s be honest—not every song will blow your mind. Some moments feel a tad repetitive, like the band got stuck in a riff loop and forgot to hit escape. Still, when they nail it, they REALLY nail it.
So, what’s the verdict? Evolution may not redefine thrash metal, but it sure gives it a good kick in the pants. It’s raw, unapologetic, and packed with enough attitude to make a biker blush. Sure, it’s not perfect, but neither is life—and sometimes imperfection is exactly what makes something memorable.
And here’s the kicker: listening to this album made me realize something profound. Thrash metal isn’t just music—it’s therapy. So next time you’re feeling stressed, crank up Evolution and let Sworn Amongst scream your problems away. Trust me, it works better than kale smoothies or whatever nonsense people are into these days.
