The 2010s were some “Hard Times” for Cro-Mags founder Harley Flanagan. After a 2012 scuffle between he and former band members resulted in his arrest for assault, Flanagan spent the remainder of the decade fighting for the band name he came up with way back in 1980. After years of trials and tribulations, it was ruled that Flanagan is the rightful owner of the Cro-Mags name, while singer John Joseph and drummer Mackie must tour under the moniker “Cro-Mags JM” (their initials). But this review isn’t about them. It’s about Flanagan who’s back with a vengeance with the first new Cro-Mags album in 20 years, In the Beginning.
For a genre that’s been diluted to meathead slam riffs and other general corniness (see Code Orange, Knocked Loose, etc), it’s refreshing to see one of hardcore’s forefathers take it back to, well, the beginning! In the Beginning is fast, intense, and aggressive. Its angry metallic riffing is provided by legendary guitarist, Rocky George. The former Suicidal Tendencies axe slinger shines throughout, especially on thrashy numbers like “No One’s Victim” and “No One’s Coming”. If you’re a Suicidal maniac, you know George’s playing when you hear it. Enlisting his talents was a smart move on Flanagan’s behalf, resulting in one giant east meets west hardcore collision.
Equally as hard hitting as the music is the lyrical content. One would think there’s difference between 18 year old Flanagan and 52 year old Flanagan. The only difference is added years of wisdom and introspection via the mean streets of New York. In the Beginning displays many of the same lyrical traits as The Age of Quarrel (1986). The opening “Don’t Give In” speaks for itself with a resounding message of persistence. “No One’s Coming” continues this theme with a chorus of, “No one’s coming. You got to do it yourself.”
“One Bad Decision” and “Two Hours” is a one-two punch that I believe refers back to the 2012 incident. On “One Bad Decision”, Flanagan advises, “Think about what you say. Think about what you do.” Meanwhile, “Two Hours” is less of a song and more of a spoken word reflection set to the nastiest riff on the album. As a metalhead snob, I don’t advise crowdkilling…but dammit! Good luck not swinging your arms to this one.
Harley Flanagan has been to hell and back. He has the scars to prove it. And those scars are proudly on display for the world to see and hear on In the Beginning. Amidst the “Age of Quarrel”, the demoniac has been crushed and the “Seekers of the Truth” prevail.
7 out of 10
Label: Mission Two Entertainment
Genre: Hardcore Punk
For fans of: Agnostic Front, Suicidal Tendencies, Killing Time