| Phobia have survived the rise and fall of grindcore. They stuck around as many of the genre's top bands fell, including Spazz, Assuck and Dystopia, causing the scene to fall into obscurity somewhat. However, as long as a small crowd of dirty, crusty punk rock kids with dreads and patches lurk, Phobia will continue on. "Serenity Through Pain" may be the band's best material to date. Combining the speed and integrity of grindcore with the hooks of death metal, Phobia have really done something different. Rather than trying to re-invent the style by adding their own elements as many other bands of the ilk have done, Phobia just perfect what they already have to work with. The lyrics provide the stark political and social commentary that is a common thread between all the bands of the genre. Full on blast beats or double bass parts, coupled with bone-crushing guitarwork and a combination of deep death growls and throat-burning maniacal shrieks describes the twenty three track effort, including a Final Conflict cover. Phobia also has a step over many similar bands in that the production on "Serenity Through Pain" is very thick. Fans of newer Napalm Death should definitely give Phobia their time. Phobia has slowly climbed the ranks to become one of grindcore's most respected outfits, by not only crusty kids, but metalheads and hardcore kids alike. "Serenity Through Pain" will help to maintain this position. |
