Album Review: Torn Fabriks - Mind Consumption
Reviewed by Paul Hutchings
Short, sweet and to the point, Mind Consumption pulls no punches. This six track release features three established thrash metal musicians from Portugal in Jorge Matos (Sindicato da Terra), Ricardo Santos (Morbid Death) and Paulo Soares (Rageful). It’s a blistering wedge of old school thrash metal which tackles topics of capitalism and inequalities.
Leaning more towards the Bay Area sound than that of European neighbours, the trio create a fantastic noise with explosive drumming, driving bass lines and searing solos, as well as Santos’ roaring vocal delivery that sits so well with the subject matter.
Opener ‘Respect’ begins with a Testament style intro, harrowing screams echoing before a massive riff erupts and things get a bit feisty. Within seconds you can tell that the three-piece have nailed the biggest challenge that faces any trio, creating a solid sound. Torn Fabriks do that with ample room to spare. The track races away, balanced by some slower segments that allow time to catch the breath. It’s that frenetic – immediately.
With six songs to plough through, there is little time wasted. Idiocracy Level follows, another raging track that has a melodic undercurrent, but which doesn’t slow down. The rampaging Face It maintains the momentum, the track veering more towards the relentless drive of Sodom and Destruction in its pulverising approach. Powerful double bass kicks, jagged riffs and a thunderous feel all work in a pleasing and certainly old school combination. It may not be massively original, but there is an aural assault that should please those who like their thrash served with no frills and straight to the head.
The three remaining tracks continue in a similar vein. Felt the Treason boils with anger, the lyrics spat out with venom. ‘Bring Me Down’ may be the shortest song on the release but it packs a solid punch and possibly the award for the fastest song on the record with a pleasing chugging section that works well. Closer ‘Evil8’ features a snippet of Vincent Price which is cut short by a raging punk-infused feel which would incite the quietest crowd to mosh.
If you like you thrash served with a studded wristband and a bullet belt, Torn Fabriks may well have provided one of the most appetising treats for early 2021. Certainly something to get the teeth stuck into.
