From Ashes Rise – Nightmares

From Basements Rise…

If you’re a fan of hardcore punk and you haven’t heard of From Ashes Rise, prepare to get schooled. This Tennessee outfit has been making noise for over six years, steadily building a strong DIY fan base along the way. Since their humble beginnings in the southeast’s underground circuit, FAR have changed their home, in more than one sense. Brad, John, Billy and Dave are now living in the punk mecca Portland, and their 4th LP Nightmares is the new kid on the block at Jade Tree records. Neither move has done anything to compromise the band’s raging sound or lyrical impact, however.To say this album is the past, present and future of hardcore may sound a little pretentious, but Nightmares delivers. The past? The influence of hardcore punk pioneers Discharge is undeniable – especially in the pounding of drummer Dave Atchison. The present? FAR is one of the biggest bands in America’s DIY hardcore circuit, featuring members of other heavy hitters Tragedy and World Burns To Death. Go to any one of their shows and watch the crowd explode from first note to last if you don’t believe me. Nightmares also features producer Matt Bayles (The Blood Brothers, Isis) at the controls. The future? FAR have a unique talent for blending elements of international hardcore with melodic interludes that don’t compromise the raw intensity of the band for a second. Perfectly matching the music are intelligent screamed lyrics that transcend the empty syllables of so many other bands, dealing with issues ranging from the global economy to nuclear warfare. Nightmares gets your heart and fist pounding without actually having one.