Detestation – S/T / 2005 Profane Existence / 22 Tracks / http://members.tripod.com/~detestation_pdx/ / http://www.profaneexistence.com / Reviewed 10 October 2005 Playing at a speed fast enough that all individuals can really do is try to decipher the dense arrangements played, Detestation’s music (which was all created from 1996 to 1998) still sound as fresh and as new today as they once did. Once can really get an idea of what the band sounded like by the covers they had through their history; while neither “War Machine” (Anti-Cimex) or “Children of the Grave” (Black Sabbath) made it onto this discography, the sound of each of the bands can be heard in the growled-out vocals of Saira and the shredded-guitars of Brian. Even at this incredible tempo, there is still a major part of tracks like “Dying Every Day” that puts forth an infectious harmony that breaks through the distorted bonds that hold it. Breaking into more metal territory with the longish “A Is For…”, Detestation really shows through staggered arrangements that their status as musicians is at least as shining as their political method. Smartly reprinting lyrics for all the tracks on this disc, Profane Existence ensures that there is not a single message lost through the raw vocal inflection of Saira. Even though there seems to be a similarity shown through the vast majority of songs on this discography, the fact is that Detestation does not sit on their laurels. Each of the track struggles to be top of the hill as the bass lines (Kelly) get more intricate and the drums (Andy) get more brash and bold. Of course, even when there is pointed political philosophy (such as in “Back From The Dead”), Detestation makes sure to insert a seething brand of humor that really will strike a chord in anyone listening. For example, from “Back From The Dead”: “Back from the dead / to make a quick buck / you’re a sucker if you think / that they actually give a fuck”. Perhaps most exciting on this disc has to be the intensity of composition during “Must We Divide”: the standard audible bass mixes well with the guitar, but there seems to be even more experimentation in regards to the arrangements this go-around. The band consisted of members that were or are in Defiance, Hellshock, Severed Head of State and more; however, the quality of this music really outstrips anything comparable. The mastering is raw but not poor; this gives the entirety of the songs on the disc an electricity that will shock and awe any who listen. Top Tracks: Must We Divide, A Is For… Rating: 7.3/10

[JMcQ]