THROWERS - Loss CD

Leipzig quartet Throwers are the latest in a series of awesome bands who have crafted a characteristic German, metallic D.I.Y sound. Following the likes of Trainwreck, Planks and Lentic Waters, the band deliver a lethal concoction of chaotic screamo, crusty punk, dark riffs and post metal flourishes. "Loss" is their debut full-length consisting of seven tracks of searing fury, continuing the fine tradition of their forebearers.  The highlights of the album come when the band is at their most focused and aggressive. Frenetic parting shot "Nevermore" is the best example of this, a breathless track of furious drumming and relentless, ugly riffs which brings to mind Manchester's much-missed Hammers.  Throwers distinguish themselves from their peers by upping the stakes in terms of heavy riffs and epic atmosphere. Tracks like "Karg" and "Homecoming" sound like early Mastodon tussling with Cult of Luna in a sweaty basement - hardcore grit and metallic crunch combine with electrifying results. The band even throw in some spidery off-kilter, riff-mangling in "Unarmed", hinting at a penchant for mathematical complexity. It would be great to see them explore this further on future releases.