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Album Reviews : Hidden Intent – Fear, Prey, Demise

By on April 2, 2018

Hidden Intent is a 3 piece thrash band from South Australia. Whilst their neighbours in Victoria often get the most attention there is no doubt that Hidden Intent is more than worthy of being held in the same sort of regard that is often reserved for the likes of Harlott, Desecrator and Mason.

Hidden Intent’s second full-length Fear, Prey, Demise is a fantastic collection of tunes which the band themselves refer to as ‘80s-throwback thrash metal; a form of music that wholly embraces its American and European roots in the Bay Area, Scandinavian and Teutonic thrash scenes’. True to their influences Fear, Prey, Demise is a mixed bag of styles and moods but its all quality. On one hand, you have the hard edge of tracks like “Prey For Your Death” & “Imminent Psychosis”, which sit comfortably alongside the tongue in cheek lyrics on songs like “Addicted to Thrash” & “Drop Bears Are Real”. I really enjoy the ‘almost Iced Earth ballad’ style of “Waiting Here In Hell” but the 8-minute epic Apocalypse Now is my favourite track on the release. The track Petrified has a Pantera style stomp which adds some variety to the disk and there is a hidden track at the end of the album which brings some added interest too. In summary, there is more than enough quality on Fear, Prey, Demiseto keep you coming back for more.

Hidden Intent has a big sound for a 3 piece, but the main thing that really stands out to me is the attitude and style that the 3 members bring to the table.Paul Lewis is as tight as the proverbial ‘you know what’ behind the kit. Chris McEwen’s bass playing is a nice mix of the virtuosity of Cliff Burton and the low, clangy rumble of Frank Bello. His vocals are a solid mix of influences ranging from the gruff delivery of Rob Flynn &  John Bush to the high pitched screams and ballad style crooning of Matt Barlow. Phil Bennett’s guitar lines are a personal highlight  – his riffing is tight and there is a clear Kirk Hammett influence in the lead playing which adds a classic flavour to tracks.

Bottom line; Fear, Prey, Demise is a quality Aussie thrash release. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to any self-respecting, denim wearing thrash metal fan.  Get on it.

Band: Hidden Intent
Album: Fear, Prey, Demise
Year: 2018
Genre: Thrash Metal
Label: Independent
Origin: Australia

About

Chris is a long time metal enthusiast and advocate for Australian heavy music scene. Chris grew up in Perth, Western Australia and is a past member of modern melodeath act Let's Kill Uncle. Currently residing in London, UK.