Out ColdLeave it do Dan @ Mad At The World Records to dig up some hardcore gems. I really love what the guy is doing with the label, releasing great old school inspired records that kids should know about but just slept on over the years, the Major Conflict album is the most recent example of this. I might not have ever heard those songs if it wasn’t for this label. But enough nut-riding, on to the review..... Goodbye Cruel World was released this past year on Kangaroo Records in Europe but this is the first time this album was pressed for a US release. Now if you’re not familiar with Out Cold they’re a straight up traditional 90's hardcore band that formed back in 1989. They’ve put out six albums, numerous EP’s and splits yet for the length of time they have been around, are still considered one of hardcore’s best-kept secrets. Through all of the obstacles thrown their way, from lineup changes, personal problems they have never once strayed from the sound they started with. This LP is a testament to the band’s perseverance and full speed ahead attitude. Either by the venom in his voice or the thought behind his words, Mike Sheehan does a madman job of getting his pissed off views across to the listener. In the song "By a thread," he screams his head off to end with a classic Out Cold line, "The sunlight bores the daylights out of me." Every song lyrically is like a page out of a raging lunatics journal. Hello Disaster and Doomsday Guy are prime examples and are undeniably two of the most pissed off anthems you will hear. As I had mentioned, musically it’s early 80's hardcore with emphasis on speed, the only pause if when it comes time to switch from side A to B. Mike Sheehan oversaw the production, and it shows, raw production for even rawer music. The layout is similar to most of the bands covers, same font, black and gray with a picture of a guy on a high mountaintop. It comes with an insert with all of the lyrics for your reading enjoyment, as well as a band photo. The layout matches the music, no bells and whistles just straight up Out Cold. Whether you’re already a fan or like 80's hardcore, this is worthy of adding to your collection.
Rating: 4/5 Songs worthy of replay: Hello Disaster, Doomsday Guy, Take as needed for pain.
Thesis: Authentic 80's hardcore that’s as pissed off as it comes