Fasedown

Item: Fasedown
Author: Doug Van Pelt

(2000)

Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt

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Label Rescue RecordsHM Magazine #90July/August 2001

hardcore hardcore punk metalcore

It seems Jim Chaffin just can't get the aggression out of his system. Longtime drummer for The Crucified, this man's feet and hands were responsible for many a bruise and muscle ache. After the dissolution of one of Christian hard music's all-time great bands, he joined (and altered the sound of) the Blamed. Besides filling in for numerous bands on spot dates, Jim began working with a new band — called Parakaleo — that explored the more brutal side of his musical history. This band changed its name to Fasedown sometime shortly before or after signing a deal with Rescue. While it's easy to look at Jim's insane drumming in any band he joins, it wouldn't be fully accurate to label Fasedown as Jim's band. Guitarist Mike Phillips brings a short little legacy (and mean tone) to the band, too, as his work with Deliverance will attest. And bassist John Hansen's time with The Blamed cannot be forgotten. Vocalist Devin Shaeffer is no slouch, either.

This album reeks with power and toughness. I'm reminded of one of my early T&N favs, Everdown. While not start/stop happy, Fasedown pounds a groove into your head that's almost numbing. Devin growl/grunts his penmanship as bluntly and passionately as his creation. The words are worth taking a look at. In "Memoirs Of A Modern Judas," he's not afraid to ask the question, "Am I different from those who do not believe?" Like Paul, he does not come with flowery speech, but the power of Truth!

I'm surprised not everyone is talking about this band, since their album hit so many months ago. The band would've benefitted from a wider sound spectrum and more dynamics, but they still pack as much punch as an NHL game. Expect lots of blood, guts, eyes, and teeth on the ice when this album's over.