Sometimes a band digs its claws into your very essence. This band refuses to let go, and only deepens its grip as times passes. Since hearing demo recordings from Canadian-based Withdrawal, I have been unwilling to separate myself from the connection I have to their music. Unknown Misery marks the band's first official release, a five-song 7" of 90's inspired hardcore - thematically and musically.
The a-side of Unknown Misery begins with "Pray as Lamb; Lamb as Prey." Chugging metal-tinged guitar riffs spearhead the song. A thick and rumbling rhythm section in the bass and drums further fuels this frenzied pace. Partnered with the guttural bark and apocalyptic theological-based lyrical ramblings of vocalist Adam Dyson, this song is an absolute delight to my ears. "Creation's Womb" is equally as destructive; its blistering pace brings to mind the fiery assault of Ringworm. This side of the 7" concludes with "The Hanneman King" - an obvious Slayer reference - that contains some of the best shredding this side of the mid-90's Victory catalog.
"Luminous Sanctuary" starts off the b-side. The song opens with show-churning guitars and the venomous vocal delivery of Dyson. The slower pace allows each and every riff to be thoroughly pounded into your skull - not normally an experience one welcomes but one that you'll make an exception for in this case. The 7" concludes with the title-track, and "Unknown Misery" has saved the best for last. The opening section is so fucking good. The galloping rhythms matched with a chugging riff and a harmonizing guitar line is perfection. It's interesting to hear layering like this in a hardcore song, something normally characterized in shoegaze, new wave, and post-hardcore.
Dyson's lyrics venture in multiple directions. There are the pessimistic views of society, where influence from the likes of Integrity and Catharsis are obvious. But also, there are significant portions that deal with self-analysis. Sprinkled here and there are pieces of prose, and even excerpts of poetry. Less notable influences comes from the world of philosophy and the visual arts. With lines like the following from "Creation's Womb," how can your interest not be piqued by these writings?
Only with weakness can you accept reality / There is no truth. There is only perception. / The fear that sinks in you is your vision's deception.
Pre-orders of the 7" also were accompanied by a short story penned by Dyson. This writing provides further insight into the psyche of Dyson and further explains his outlook on society. It's quite an interesting read and a nice bonus to the recording.
I can't find a single thing about Unknown Misery that I do not enjoy. This is dark and ominous metallic hardcore at its best. Withdrawal is a force on the rise and its time you take notice.
