This review is for NYC thrashers Another Demon and the re-release of their EP As Above So Below, featuring guest James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary), via Ragebreed Records / Earache Records digital distribution on April 18.
Another Demon dip their toes into pools of blood and twitching tendrils in their new EP, As Above So Below.
I’m a fan of old school thrash — have been since I was about 15. Just for reference, I’m nearly 52, so I’ve lived and loved thrash music since I was a kid. The genre itself was only born a couple of years before I was introduced to it, so I know my thrash.
What gives me faith that thrash never really died, and is on a meteoric rise as we speak, are bands like Another Demon — who not only immerse themselves in thrash theocracy, but add their own twist to the tantalisingly torturous tunes. The title track, “As Above So Below,” is a great example of this, hammering home the thrash element and taking it to the next kick-ass level. The track sums up the EP in the most savagely slaughtering, sadistic way.
Another Demon is helmed by bassist and vocalist Max Capshaw, who brings with him decades of dedication to thrash metal. He commands your presence from the first note and is the perfect frontman for the group. There is one song in particular where Max taps into the spirit of the great Slayer screamer himself, Tom Araya. See if you can guess which one.
Frank Tosi is the main songwriter for As Above So Below. He brings a modern thrash guitar essence with aggressive, atmospheric aptitude. Coupled with the rage, precision, speed and melody of guitarist Jun Takeshita, you’ve got a double-headed axe attack ready to slash and burn all who hide in their shadows.
The rhythmic intensity and efficiency of Dave English on drums ties everything together. I’ve always said you can have the best guitarists in the world riffing and shredding, but without a seriously talented drummer, you’ve got no band. One of the things I specifically listen for in modern thrash is the complexity of the drumming — it’s a higher standard than it was in the 80s. Sorry if that offends you, but drummers nowadays are insanely talented. Dave English is an outstanding drummer who pushes thrash metal forward.
The addition of guest soloist — virtuoso and legend of thrash and death metal — James Murphy (yes, that James Murphy), who features on “Drawn and Quartered,” adds another layer of authenticity to the EP.
The balance and brilliance of the four murderous musicians in Another Demon is outstanding. If you love Slayer, Testament, Overkill or Exodus, you’ll hear nods to the greats throughout As Above So Below. It’s a credit to the band — they’ve thrown everything into this release to ensure its place in horror-themed thrash metal.
Did I mention James Murphy makes a guest appearance? I know I did… I just wanted to tell you again.
I’m a huge James Murphy fan, in case you couldn’t tell.
As Above So Below by Another Demon is an absolute must for anyone who loves metal — whether it’s speed, thrash, death or doom. Pick your poison.
Put it in your ears and you’ll be bouncing off the walls in no time.
My overall thoughts? Fucking loved it.
Powerful. Fast. Aggressive. Thrashing. Evil.
Five words. No arguments.
🎧 Spotify
👉 https://open.spotify.com/artist/3kNaNyl0Lcp2NffXJUwjT6?si=SbY0-uwdTE6jlNyjTIRDJA
EP Band Line-Up
Max Capshaw – Vocals / Bass
Frank Tosi – Lead Guitar
Jun Takeshita – Lead Guitar
Frank Vaturina – Session Drums
Live Line-Up
Max Capshaw – Vocals
Frank Tosi – Lead Guitar
Jun Takeshita – Lead Guitar
Fred Romer – Bass
Dave English – Drums
