Artist: Draghoria

Album: Asunder EP

Release Date: January 19, 2024

Reviewer: Ashley Parrish

In their latest release, "Asunder," Draghoria shifts from the societal themes explored in their previous releases, delving into the realms of mental health, all the while staying loyal to their thrash metal roots. Based out of Greeley, Colorado, their newest release firmly establishes why they continue to be a driving force in the local metal scene.

The opening track, “Nadir," kicks off the EP with relentless intensity. As the title suggests, "Nadir" plunges into the darkest depths of the human psyche, exploring the raw and painful experience of hitting rock bottom. In what is perhaps the heaviest track on the record, The band captures the essence of this emotional descent through blistering guitar riffs, a thunderous double-kick bass drum assault, and a robust breakdown. 

Diving deeper into the emotional trenches, we encounter the haunting resonance of "Loathe." This track took a few spins to fully ensnare my senses, but once it did, it emerged as a standout and my personal favorite. "Loathe" delves into the profound theme of being irreparably broken, trapped in self-loathing with seemingly no escape. The lyrics, "What you see as modesty is actually my self-loathing, I feel as though I never get it right," resonated as I heard my own thoughts and feelings echoed back at me. Reminding me why music is so powerful in the first place. 

Descending further comes "Crutch." It's an unapologetically aggressive assault that makes its impact with blunt, in-your-face lyrics and vocals. "Crutch" exposes the need for a lifeline, a desperate grasp for something—anything—to navigate the challenges of each day, portraying the struggle where emotions become the enemy. The instrumentation mirrors the emotional turmoil expressed in the lyrics, with frontman Riggs delivering gritty vocals as he belts out the words "Feelings are the enemy now I bid you farewell." The drums propel a sense of urgency, the guitars unleash relentless riffs, and the bass line establishes a sturdy foundation.

 The energy takes an upward surge with the infectious, battle-jacket-wearing anthem "H.Y.O (Hold Your Own)," echoing the spirit of their earlier single, "Thrash A.D."  The chorus, catchier than a metal anthem has any right to be, imbeds itself in the recesses of the mind, establishing residence and refusing to vacate for days. (A phenomenon I can personally attest to, as it has played on a loop in the background of my mind since the beginning of this assignment.)

Wrapping up the EP, Draghoria leaves a lasting impression with their cover of "Rebel Yell." In a song that has seen its fair share of renditions, Draghoria's version stands out as one of the better ones, showcasing the band's skill in injecting new life into classic tracks. Much like their notable cover of "Bark at the Moon," this rendition not only pays homage to the original but also infuses it with their signature thrashy sound and impressive riffage.

After multiple listens of the EP, the cohesion of the initial trio of tracks on "Asunder" forms what appears to be a trilogy—a narrative journey through the darker facets of the human experience. This musical journey culminates in a contrasting and uplifting finale with the tracks "H.Y.O" and "Rebel Yell." In my perspective, the album stands as a solid and authentic compilation.  With two skilled guitarists, Ronald Carillo and Ryan Nevins, each contributing compelling leads, a sturdy bass foundation provided by John Colucco, Alex Carillo’s maniacal drumming, and Riggs raw and unrefined vocals, "Asunder" emerges as a testament to Draghoria's musical reliability. By adding the personal layer to their catalog, they not only showcase their technical skill but also a vulnerability that resonates with audiences on a profound level.