Greek metallers Panic Alarm arrive with their self-titled debut album, offering an explosive combination of thrash metal, nu metal and punk influences, in an album that leaves no room for breathing.
From the first listen, it becomes clear that Panic Alarm have chosen the path of raw energy and relentless aggression. Their thrash riffs are sharp and incisive, their nu metal moments bring a dose of modern dynamism, while the punk attitude permeates the album, giving it a raw, almost “loose” feel that fits their style like a glove.
The guitars reap riffs that hark back to the golden age of American thrash, while the vocals balance between raw screams and more rhythmic, rap-like renditions, an element obviously borrowed from their nu metal origins.
The rhythm section proves solid and unstoppable, giving the album a constant sense of movement and intensity.
Special mention deserves to be made of tracks like “Chasing Your Fears”, which perfectly sums up the band’s philosophy, and “Surrending Death”, a furious attack on social injustice, with lyrics that aren’t afraid to be direct and raw.
Despite the fact that the album is based on familiar recipes of genres that have already left a heavy legacy, Panic Alarm manage to infuse fresh energy and authenticity in their compositions.
If there is one point that could be developed further, it would probably be the greater variation in sound and dynamics between tracks, in order to further highlight the distinct aspects of their identity.
Overall, “Panic Alarm” is a dynamic and promising first statement.
With the power and passion they emit, Panic Alarm prove that they have all the makings to stand out in the contemporary Greek and wider metal scene.
Spyros Tribos
8/10
“Panic Alarm” tracklist:
1.Panic Alarm 02:46
2.Surrending Death 05:04
3.MR PANIC 05:47
4.Battery For The Bomb 04:22
5.Make Blood 04:17
6.Go Away 03:19
7.Chasing Your Fears 04:20
8.Dead Threat 04:37
