Dislocation is one of the most exciting new bands to emerge from California, and while they're fresh on the scene, they bring with them a wealth of experience from some seasoned veterans. The band features former members of First Blood and Set Your Goals, as well as current members of Alcatraz and Forced to Suffer. With such a pedigree, it's no surprise that their debut EP already carries a certain level of polish and maturity. These guys know their way around their instruments, and it shows in every track.
The EP opens with a bass line that takes the lead in the first song, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the track. The rhythm section, particularly the drums, stands out as the drummer doesn't just rely on the snare but uses the full range of the drum kit to add depth and complexity. The guitars deliver tight, powerful riffs that perfectly complement the aggressive energy of the music, and the vocals are a perfect match, delivering raw intensity with every line.
One of the things that stands out about this EP is its efficiency. Each song is a tight, punchy three-minute blast that doesn't waste any time with unnecessary filler. It's lean, it’s mean, and it gets straight to the point, packing a lot of energy and aggression into a short amount of time. There’s no time for fluff here — just pure, no-nonsense hardcore.
The only real criticism I can offer is the production quality. While it's far from terrible, the mixing and mastering could certainly use some improvement. The raw energy of the band comes through, but the sound could be clearer and more polished. With better mixing, these tracks could really hit harder and showcase the band's potential even more. That said, the production is still serviceable for what Dislocation is going for, and it doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience.
In short, Dislocation’s debut EP proves that this band has the chops to make an impact. With a lineup full of talented musicians and a sound that's both aggressive and focused, they’ve definitely set the stage for something bigger. If they tighten up their production in the future, there's no telling how far they could go.
RATING: 7.5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Life's Thorns
Return To Nothing