Aussie hardcore band Shove has announced the release of their debut album, Agency, available now through Rack Off and Drunken Sailor records. The album, which contains 13 tracks, brings forth a sound that pays homage to the fast-paced and raw thrash that originated from Japan in the 1980s.
Fans of the genre can expect relentless drumming, gloriously distorted basslines, and wild guitar feedback interspersed with aggressive vocals that are more about emotion than melody. According to Nathan Brown's review, the musical arrangement carries a 'don't give a fuck' attitude, which firmly places Shove's sound within the Noise Not Music ethos.
The album's themes touch on the broader issues of social distortion and mental dislocation, questioning a world marred by indifference and violence. The band's press release elaborates that Agency is a protest against the pervasive influence of patriarchy and societal complacency. This debut promises to resonate with listeners who appreciate unapologetic and abrasive music, reminiscent of the Thrash Til Death compilation from the Pusmort label.
Not only does the music captivate, but the album features collage cover art that reflects a G.I.S.M.-like aesthetic—less busy, yet notable in its intent to provoke. For listeners eager to experience their take on hardcore punk and its thematic undertones, tracks like King Diamond are available for streaming on Bandcamp. Shove's debut could serve as a fitting introduction for fans of underground music, establishing their presence in the punk community.