New York City in the mid ’80s was the place to be for Punk, Hardcore, and crossover Thrash Metal. Straight out of the trenches of that very NYC scene came a band called Prong. Formed back in 1986, and led since by Guitarist and sole originator Tommy Victor, Prong found their success in the ’90s, took a 5 year hiatus starting in 1997, and returned in early 2000s, not looking back since. In fact, the ever active band are back in the limelight once again with the release of their new EP, Age of Defiance out on Friday, November 29th, 2019 via SPV/Steamhammer.
Featuring five tracks, only two of which are actually new, original songs, the other three are live recordings by Victor & co. from their major headlining tour at Berlin club Huxleys Neue Welt in April 2015. The first selection of live music from this trio is “Rude Awakening” from the 1996 album by the same name, and it sparks the mood with dark thrash elements. Then there are “Another Worldly Device” along with “Cut Rate” coming from the 1994 album Cleansing, and they serve up old school hardcore punches with a side of saucy punk.
Tommy Victor on vocals and guitars will always be the essence of this band, as is clear as day in the new tunes as well as the old. Speaking of which, the first new track is the heavy hitter “Age Of Defiance” which keeps the groove guitar tone alive and well while rounding itself out with well-timed crossover drumming. Then there is ‘End of Sanity” which is a fast, fun jam written especially for their recent tour with Agnostic Front. Keeping the old school intensity while bringing in modern vibes, it makes for a solid offering for Prong fans.
An early holiday present, Age of Defiance will keep Prong fans happy and anticipating the next full-length album which is bound to come soon enough. As Tommy Victor has been active in quite a few bands over the years including with Ministry and Danzig, he has always struck true chords with Prong. A great teaser that offers a glimpse into the future while gifting a look at the wild past, Cryptic Rock gives Age of Defiance 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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