If you're going to listen to anything with hardcore in the title, it should usually come from New York if you want it to be good. After all, New York Hardcore was the start of the movement. Without rad bands like Sick of it All, Madball, and others, there would be no lame shit like A Day To Remember for all the thirteen year old wastoids to piss their parents off with. Sworn Enemy is one of the NYHC bands that has really proven themselves worthy of respect from fans of all subgenres of metal. I remember seeing them for the first time at Ozzfest, back in ‘02, and being blown away. I never really got into hardcore stuff, but these dudes drew me in and kept me interested the whole set. Fast forward seven years and several great tours and albums, and Sworn Enemy have outdone themselves again. Anyone who thinks this band sucks hasn't heard "Total World Domination". This album screams aggression from the opening riff and doesn't let up anywhere in between. Thrash, punk rock, and hardcore blended flawlessly with a hint of melodic death metal and metal core make for one hell of a listen. "Still Hating" is a song that gives a pretty good idea of how these guys see the world and it's inhabitants. And to make things even better, these guys aren't afraid to poke a little fun at themselves and the tough guy mythos behind hardcore music . Once you hear the record, you'll know what I mean. All in all, I can't find any reason why "Total World Domination" shouldn't be ripping your face off right now.
Sworn Enemy:
Total World Domination
1. Sell My Soul
2. Aftermath
3. Run For Shelter
4. Still Hating
5. On The Outside
6. Lies
7. Ready To Fight
8. Disconnect
9. Step In The Ring
10. Home Of The Brave
Released 16 June 2009
Century Media
By Rob "Bubbs" Harris
www.metalexiles.com