Forstora – For All That Will Save Or Destroy Us (Bird’s Robe Records)
I first heard of these guys when I saw them opening up for Karnivool in Perth back in 2012. Usually I don’t go for bands with the screaming/riff variety, but these guys were just so intense and heavy and had so much conviction – that it somehow clicked for me.
My initial excitement over seeing a short video with Drew from Karnivool in it, apparently acting as producer, gave way to a long period of forgetting they even existed – until the recent announcement of their pairing with Sydney label Bird’s Robe, for the release of a debut album.
And here they are, opening my mind yet again.
On first listen, it’s clear these guys have lost nothing in the 3 years it’s taken to deliver this album. Having heard so much heavy music you forget how important production can be to making an impact on a listener and this record (mixed with Forester Savell) packs a huge punch, with none of the quantizing and lack of air you find on most current hardcore releases.
This is something else entirely – a fresh, powerful and unique statement for Australian heavy music.
If you’re into Refused, Converge or perhaps even Mish, you’ll dig this.
With a drummer in Tame Impala’s touring sound guy, don’t expect too much activity on the live front, but if you get the chance, get down to the front row.
Listen and support the band at www.forstora.bandcamp.com