Shadows Decay - Agent Of Chaos
I’ve been listening to Agent Of Chaos by Shadows Decay for just over a week now. While most of the albums I’ve reviewed so far grabbed my attention immediately, this one took a few listens to fully appreciate. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I could do it justice in a review, but I realized it wasn’t the album—it was more about adjusting my ears after a steady diet of highly produced Metalcore and Progressive Death Metal. This EP brings a different flavour: it’s raw, gritty, and authentically thrash, in every way you’d want it to be.
Whether it’s a product of the band’s local scene or the result of honing their style over 11 years together, Shadows Decay has crafted one of the more unique-sounding thrash albums I’ve heard this year. The EP, aptly titled Agent Of Chaos, feels intentional and well-crafted in some sections, while other moments capture the energy of a live jam session. This isn’t thrash in the traditional Slayer or Metallica sense—expect something grittier, with a raw edge reminiscent of Sodom and Power Trip.
The vocal style leans into a near death metal experience, mixing gritty and guttural tones that amplify the album’s intensity. Tracks like Agent Of Chaos showcase low, chugging riffs that occasionally explode into high-speed solos with blistering backing riffs, giving the EP a strong thrash backbone.
The riffs on this album are as raw and distinctive as the vocals, with a satisfying mix of rapid chugging and smooth fretboard changes that keep the energy high. It’s a gut punch after gut punch, with an unpredictability that’s hard to describe—but somehow, it all comes together beautifully.
The drumming on Agent Of Chaos drives the album’s intense, unpolished energy. Each track has its own rhythm-driven punch, with hard-hitting beats that range from slower, weighty tempos to relentless double-bass blasts. The drums add an almost chaotic, unpredictable layer to the songs, enhancing that live, in-the-moment vibe that’s so central to the album.
While Agent Of Chaos may not be a must-listen for everyone, fans of unrefined, visceral tracks that capture the energy of a live performance will likely find this EP rewarding. If you’re into thrash with a gritty, untamed edge, Shadows Decay’s latest release might be just what you’re looking for.