BY STEVE THIRIOT
This week, I am reviewing one of my favorite albums by New York Hardcore veterans Merauder "God Is I". They are defiantly not playing games on this album. “God Is I,” was released in 2009. Merauder delivers a more metallic on this effort then prior releases; This album features ruthless blends of grooves, grit, aggression, Guitar Solos and inspiring lyrics, that inspire me to this day!
“Until” Opens the album with a bang, setting the tone for what promises to be an unyielding journey. "Until" is a track that commands attention, The chorus “Crush. Your. Enemies. Until They're all Gone” Will inspire you to do just that.
“Ratcatcher” The riffage is relentless, drumming spot on and the lyrics confrontational. The triplets on this track are sick! “Built On Blood”
A brutal exposé on the realities of societal inequalities, this track doesn't shy away from making its point heard—loud and clear. And yes, the breakdowns combined with guitar solo's are as devastating as you'd expect.
“Gangsta” This is my absolute favorite track. The song starts with an opening sample “There are thugs and there are gangsters. Thugs come and go. Gangsters are about making money and respect; and if your gonna be a gangster in this life, there's two things you gotta know. You don't kill cops and you don't kill innocent women and children” Then BOOM! The brutality of this song, mixed with the intensity and simplicity of how well crafted the arrangement is; inspires me. Not to be a gangster mind you, but to get shit done! I listen to it over and over daily. The rhythm and lead guitar compliment each other very well. I could go on, but Just Go Listen to it!
“Forgotten Children” A poignant number that does not slow down. The lyrical emotional undertones are captivating. The guitar and drum work shine on this track. “God Is I” The title track doesn't disappoint. The complex rhythms and innovative structure show that Merauder are master's at their craft.
“Perdona Me” slows things down a bit, but the message is no less intense. This track brings out a more vulnerable side of the band without sacrificing their bite. The song screams—quite literally—for forgiveness but offers none in return. “Hell Captive” One of the album's highlights, exudes an air of suffocating despair, aptly captured by its visceral sonic quality.
"Don Pedro Albizu Campos" a 38 second sample that leads into “Ahora” that translates to "now," this track is urgent, pressing, and filled with palpable tension. The track is entirely sung in Spanish. It's a musical slap in the face that you can't help but welcome. “Never Surrender” An anthemic call to arms that embodies the spirit of resilience, this track will put a smile on your face and a fist in the air. “See You In Hell” is a fitting end to a relentless album, this track seals the deal, leaving you battered but craving for more. I know I will be seeing you all there!
"God Is I" is a ruthless, unapologetic slab of Hardcore mixed with Metal that proves Merauder has what it takes to dominate the genre. There's no compromise here—just pure, unfiltered brutality that hits you square in the chest and stays there. After all these years, Merauder remains a force to be reckoned with, and this album is a testament to their enduring power.
In a landscape awash with bands that often blend into one indistinct mass, "God Is I" stands tall as a brutal but good album, a clarion call reminding us of the band's undeniable influence and vitality.
So Sick! Go out to your local record store and buy it! (If you still have one close) or
Listen to the Album on SPOTIFY