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Down Factor
Murder The World
December 29, 2005 
Down Factor mastermind George Anderson’s status in the NorCal scene belies that of his band. The guitarist/vocalist has earned the respect of musicians and fans alike for his dedication to his craft and to the well-being of the scene, dating back to the late 1990s when he would stand outside the much-missed Cactus Club handing out two song samplers (on cassette, nonetheless). That his band has not found greater success is due in large part to a revolving door of musicians, which has at times included bassists Adam Lozano (Stagnant) and Damien Lewin (3 Hrs. Old), and drummer Jon Riggs (Primate/G2K). Their debut full-length, Pure, was a solid slab of thrash, but the production left a bit to be desired. It didn’t help matters that it was released in the wake of 9/11 and ended up flying just below the radar of the masses. Subsequent re-releases helped but could only take the band so far. Now in 2005, Anderson has a whole new crew backing him up, and a new album that makes the last one sound like a garage demo. To be blunt, this album does exactly what it says – it murders.
After an ambient intro, the two-part “Blood of the Patriots” slams out of the speakers, with the band firing on all cylinders. The band’s power comes courtesy not only of the strong rhythm and lead work of Anderson and guitarist Brooks Rocco, but also from the crushing rhythm section of bassist Waylon Ford and one of the area’s top drummers, Ramon Ochoa (ex-Maladiction/Total Eclipse). As a quartet, these guys are damn near flawless. “Gods of War” is an older track that gets a fresh face here, as is “Seethe”, sounding better than ever now. “Blinded” slows the tempo down just a bit without sacrificing anything, and features guest appearances by Vile vocalist Juan Urtega (who co-produced the album with Anderson) and Nevermore/ex-Testament guitarist Steve Smyth. Coincidentally, the dirgy instrumental “The Root of All Evil” sounds like a mid-era Testament outtake. In the end, it’s fitting that the title track closes the album, because when the disc finishes, you’ll be thinking “FUCK! This album KILLS!” Then of course you’ll groan at your own pun, but hopefully it will be a moment that you’re by yourself and thereby avoid the ridicule of your friends (I, on the other hand, have just welcomed it by stating this in the first place).
I knew this album would be good, but I didn’t expect this. Down Factor have crafted an album of damn near thrash perfection. As far as I’m concerned, no independent band in NorCal released a finer album this year. Murder the World is essential listening for any metal fan, so do yourself a favor and get this one any way you can – preferably by paying for it. It’s worth every cent.
- The Madman
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| AOADrummer - 12/31/2005 12:35:41 PM
sick fuckin disc, got it from the man (George) himself, a man with nothing less but "real" all about him, hell, you'd talk to any of them and you'd never think they were in a metal band, they act just like any down to earth guys would. George, thanks for the awesome signature on my copy "to the metal monster Jason" heh, Ramon - still the man, still lookin like yer gonna fall asleep back there playin, I swear LOL. Brooks, nothing is cooler than seeing you shred and looking like you're having more fun up there than the fans (and you very well could). Waylon, yer taller than I expected LOL a damn solid addition to DF. can't wait to see what the next disc brings. | | Pimp Daddy - 12/30/2005 9:33:28 AM
Great review, I look forward to hearing it. These guys put on one hell of a show and have been around for quite some time. Best of luck to you guys! Vince of Chronic Narcosis |
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