Chain Gang’s Death Threats Volume 1 is a brutal, groove-heavy EP that immediately establishes the band as a rising force in the hardcore and slam-infused metal scene. Across its four tracks, the Florida-based group showcases a tight command of heaviness, balancing oppressive, dark atmospheres with explosive bursts of energy. From the very first note, it’s clear that Chain Gang know exactly what they’re doing: creating music that hits hard, feels lived-in, and thrives in a mosh pit.

The EP opens with “Smoove Off,” a slow-burn introduction that immediately sets a menacing tone. Gothic-tinged riffs crawl over deep, rumbling basslines while the drums enter with a measured, almost cinematic pace. Distorted, guttural vocals ride over this tension until the song erupts into heavier chugs and a dynamic groove. Though the intro lingers a touch, it’s effective, drawing the listener in and priming them for the raw power that follows.

“Type Shit” accelerates the action, leaning fully into slam and beatdown elements without sacrificing groove. The low, rubbery basslines provide a distinctive backbone to the track, while dynamic double-kick drum patterns keep the energy moving and maintain tension. Chain Gang injects personality here too: lyrical quirks and slang-infused lines add a playful edge without diminishing the brutality. These elements, combined with precise riffing and tight vocal layering, demonstrate the band’s growing confidence and sense of identity.

“In The Streets” is a standout moment, driving home the EP’s heavy credentials with massive drums, punishing chugs, and grooves that swing as hard as they slam. The breakdowns are simple but devastating, the kind of “dumb-heavy” that hits perfectly in a live setting. Chain Gang’s production choices allow each instrument its own space, giving riffs room to breathe and letting the low-end power of the bass resonate fully. Even at its slower moments, the track maintains intensity, proving the band can manipulate pacing and dynamics effectively.

The EP closes with “Pulled Your Card (Redux),” a track steeped in dark atmosphere. Police sirens cut through the mix while monstrous basslines and ominous guitar chugs build tension. The drums lock into heavy two-step grooves before plunging into slower, crushing patterns, creating a sense of gravity that contrasts with the faster, more chaotic tracks earlier in the EP. Here, Chain Gang feels most confident: menacing, precise, and fully committed to their mood-driven approach.

Production throughout Death Threats Volume 1 is surprisingly polished for a hardcore/metal-leaning underground band. The bass hits thick and clear, the drums are thunderous without muddiness, and the guitars retain their grit while leaving room for groove. Vocals—from gutturals to distorted growls—are layered thoughtfully, adding texture and intensity. The EP’s relatively short runtime keeps it focused, avoiding filler while maintaining a strong throughline of heaviness and groove.

Overall, Death Threats Volume 1 succeeds because Chain Gang knows what they are: a streetwise, slam-leaning hardcore act with an ear for groove, atmosphere, and underground energy. The EP doesn’t chase progressive flourishes or technical overcomplication. Instead, it delivers raw impact, dark mood, and unmistakable presence. The band’s ability to blend heavy chugs, groove-laden riffs, and menacing ambiance marks them as a name to watch in the evolving hardcore and slam-metal crossover scene.

 Death Threats Volume 1 is raw, heavy, and confident. A solid introduction to a band with serious potential in the hardcore and slam-metal underground.