We've reviewed a handful of albums from Holland's Deity Down Records, and so far they've given off the impression that they're strictly a no-nonsense death metal label. Well, it looks like their horizons have broadened considerably with the reissue of this here album from obscure hardcore/crossover act DISTURBING FORESIGHTS. Brief history: These Dutchmen originally recorded "De-Grunged" in 1993, though for some reason it was never formally released, at least not in its entirety (a few songs found their way on comps over the years). Fast forward to 2008 and "De-Grunged" is finally seeing the light of day with snazzy new artwork and an enthusiastic push from the Deity Down guys. Of course, one listen to "De-Grunged" tells ya that there's good reason for enthusiasm.

Of course, as would be expected from an album that's 15 years old, "De-Grunged" is an album that sounds, well, 15 years old. Opening track "Work it Out" is a bit deceiving with its beat-boxing intro and rap/rock leanings, bringing to mind DOG EAT DOG and even a bit of 311. As the album progresses, the lyrics tend to be far less jovial and/or more politically-minded, yet the playfulness of the music endures. A good example of this would be "Brainless Brian", a song about a friend who's killing himself with drugs that's stuffed full of groove and a catchy chorus "Drug story, drug story… it's a sad drug story" that keep things from getting too serious. From there, these guys really start flexing their creative muscle. "Positive" is a full-speed-ahead thrasher while "Shadow" employs a sarcastic sort of creepiness. "Genepharm" has a rockabilly intro, squealing harmonization and a heavy environmental message all in one tight package. After that, the hell-raising "Going to the Pub" gives the 12-bar blues format a kick in the ass, and "Lonely" fools listeners into thinking they're playing early 90s SUICIDAL TENDENCIES. They even manage to sneak in a doomy instrumental with "N.P.M." And we get all this in just over 40 minutes. Not bad, boys.

Sure, "De-Grunged" may be a wee bit dated, but anyone who spins it is going to have such a good time that they're not gonna give a rat's ass where or when it came from. Plus, it's not like the topics of poverty ("Robin Hood") or pollution ("Chemical Century") are going to lose their relevance anytime soon… sadly. So if the marriage of raucous fun and social awareness sounds like a good idea, DISTURBING FORESIGHTS is definitely something to look for.

- Cardona

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/disturbingforesights

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