As Throwdown‘s first album since 2009, “Intolerance” proceeds down a path not unsimilar to that of another metalcore institution. For it was a love of Slayer and thrash that enabled Hatebreed to give their persevering brand of punishment a sense of whiplash throughout the 2000’s.
In 2014, Throwdown find themselves at the same brutish crossroads; except they again augment their tough guy crusade with the mid-career sludginess of Pantera.
The end result is yet another groove-driven brawler that is streamlined for moshpit madness. Clocking in under 30 minutes, the lean nature of the tracks keeps the hardcore heroics determined and the denser riffage fluid.
But while the imprint of the cowboys from hell’s darkest days remains indelible, “Intolerance” can still toss in the odd surprise. “Borrowed Time” and “Condemned To Live” recall a more sluggish Lamb Of God; while tracks like “Cut Away” and “Avow” unabashedly champion the straight edge lifestyle with considerable metallic heft.
Outside of the grungy solo that appears in “Born And Buried Alone“, the band seek only to bloody their knuckles while delivering their impassioned rallying cries. There’s a well established template practiced and one’s enjoyment will likely stem most from the sense of empowerment its direct momentum can instill.
It’s hard to deny the sense of release to be gained from the blunt nature of Throwdown‘s onslaught. Even with a limited offense and some wholly familiar attack patterns, “Intolerance” can deliver some hurt—largely thanks to the bands conviction and their abbreviated approach.
