Promotional material for Strife's Witness a Rebirth attests that it is for "fans of Strife." This comes as a relief, as the last thing anyone wants from a band with a distinct take on '90s hardcore is an experimental return. But Strife take after fellow reformed '90s hardcore alumni Vision of Disorder and do what they do best on their first album in 11 years: be themselves. Thrash-influenced hardcore, which wouldn't be out of place next to Power Trip, is the name of the game. However, it's played with the intensity of modern hardcore players such as Terror, whose vocalist, Scott Vogel, shows up for a guest shout, emphasizing weight over sheer speed. Driving this fervour are the extra raw vocals of Rick Rodney and the pounding drums, courtesy of Igor Cavalera (ex- Sepultura, Cavalera Conspiracy). While current hardcore bands may be stylistically similar, sometimes out with the old, in with the new is just inviting the old to come back — with a vengeance. (6131)
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