Damage

Reviews

Damage Modern Times LP

Which DAMAGE is this going to be? Will this record be hardcore from ’80s NYC or Finland, ’90s Japan, ’00s Massachusetts, ’80s heavy metal from Norway, or ’80s rock’n’roll from Reno? It is none of those! To my absolute surprise, it is synth hardcore ridiculousness from Orlando, Florida. I absolutely love their ’84 EP and ’85 LP of crazy thrash synth punk played with two actual keytars alongside a drummer. This Modern Times LP doesn’t maintain the same punk and thrash pace as their earlier records. However, this has all of the elements of a very memorable synthwave record with a definite ’80s feel. This LP could almost be an undiscovered record by ART INTERFACE, or fit into any of the many Killed by Synth comps that have hit stores in the past five to ten years. I’m not exactly sure where this fits into my record collection, but I’m certain I should have it in there somewhere.

Damage Synthology LP

A good punk and thrash record with lots of zip, good lyrics, and that’s fun to listen to. But what makes these guys stand apart is that in the great tradition of the SCREAMERS and SUICIDE, they rely on synth. You’d never know it, though, as there’s no trace of wimpiness—just two hard-driving machines, drums, and vocals. Not to be confused with another fine band of the same name in New York, and another in Finland.

Damage Jay Walk EP

A different kind of thrash band, consisting of vocals, drums, and… lead synth and bass synth. Does it work? Almost. It’s an interesting change, but the power just isn’t there. Synth worked great in some early punk (SCREAMERS), because the tempo was slower and the power came across better. In this case, perhaps better equipment and recording would enhance their impact. Hope they keep experimenting.