Iron Reagan

Spoiled Identity [EP] (2014)

TomTrauma

The Spoiled Identity EP was originally released in the June 2014 issue of Decibel magazine, as part of their ongoing flexi series. It was a bit of a teaser for the full length The Tyranny of Will which would follow in September. Iron Reagan have managed to put out lots of music in their few short years, and have picked up many fans from both the punk and metal scenes along the way. The first thing you'll probably notice about this little record is the fact that it's got thirteen songs on it, a lot for an EP. A closer look will show you that only the title track breaks the minute mark. The entire running time is less than five minutes. Of course, Iron Reagan can fit a lot of riffs in five minutes.

Two of these tracks, "The Living Skull" (0:38) and "Your Kid's an Asshole" (0:07), ended up on The Tyranny of Will. "Spoiled Identity" (1:04) is the most fully developed song here, and probably the best. "Cops Don't Like Me, I Don't Like Cops" (0:33) and "Court Adjourned" (0:15) are built around cool samples. "Tongue Tied" (0:11), "I'm Regret" (0:09), "Zero Gain" (0:012), "One Shovel Short of a Funeral" (0:12) and "The Hungry Male (Of Wall St.)" (0:12) are almost over before they begin. "I Spit On Your Face/Grave" (0:25) features some guttural, death metal style vocals. "The Hill Witch" (0:24) is a strong closer that proves you can do a lot musically in half a minute if you play fast enough.

Iron Reagan sits at the top of the heap when it comes to modern crossover, even as their sound remains rooted in classic thrash. Relentless touring has made them into a musical force to be reckoned with. This EP recalls early D.R.I. or even early Napalm Death, before the songs got longer and more traditionally structured. While this isn't nearly as satisfying as their full lengths, it's an enjoyable listen. There are also plans for a proper 12" release, for all you vinyl fiends out there. If you haven't given these guys a try yet, you now have a good opportunity. Both Spoiled Identity and Demo 2012 are available at Bandcamp for name your own price downloads. Throw them a buck or two and check it out. See what you've been missing.