DEPRESSION - Depression (Reactor Records)
The mid-'80s in Australia seems so long ago. High-energy music ruled the roost, and the hardcore scene was especially thriving. Along with Massapeal, Melbourne-based Depression were arguably the biggest names. This CD compiles their early material (1983-85) before they moved in a metal direction.While its push into Australia was strongly led by Sydney labels Waterfront Records and Aberrant, I wasn't much into hardcore. It burned but seemed constrained by its own codes and tribal fashions and sure seemed grim. But I did know Depression.
With their rampant energy and sharply articulate guitar playing - Smeer sure would have given Greg Ginn a run for his money - Depression were a notch above the simplistic thrash-and-bash component of the competition. Their social commentary was cutting on occasions that it hit the mark, but it was the music that mattered. At times, Depression were one of the angriest bands on the planet.
This 40-track collection covers Depression's self-titled LP, their first single and the Lobby Loyde-produced "Australia Australia" EP, with three demoes thrown in for good measure. The marked progression in confidence and technical ability is apparent, with the "Australia Australia" tracks swerving from the straight hardcore of "TV Lies" to the caustic punk of "The Box", the latter boasting a massive bass sound that must have been X-influenced, given the affiliation of their producer.
Be warned that Depression's music still sounds brutally uncompromising. Tightly-wound packages of lockstep guitar and bass with frantic drumming come flying past, most under two minutes duration and some sub-60 seconds. Vocalist Spike spits out his words for maximum effect, with no airs, graces or British/American accent apparent.
It's only an occasional pause for air ("The Plan") that eases the tension. But that's exactly how hardcore shows went back then, and it would have been a travesty to break the mould or use studio trickery when recording. The lurching baseline of "The Box" and the menace of "Social Tension" in particular show strengths not apparent on the earlier material.
A lot of passion went into compiling this. The package is a beauty too, with a booklet crammed with photos. - The Barman
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