California hardcore legends Strife had a long and checkered history by the time 2012's
Witness a Rebirth arrived. Beginning in the early 90's the band was part of the west coast contingent of straight-edge, serving as an equally visceral counterpart to the straightedge scene growing out of the east coast at the same time. After a three-year break up in 1999, the band returned with 2001's Angermeans, an album that strayed from their hardcore sound, including classical instrumentation and disappointing many fans with it's subdued approach.
Witness a Rebirth sees Strife returning to their hardcore roots with eleven tracks of thrash-influenced hardcore whizzing by at breakneck speeds. Standouts like "No Apologies" and "Never Look Back" apply a back-to-basics hardcore sound, complete with Sepultura-influenced chugging guitars, precision drumming and group background vocals. ~ Fred Thomas