UMUR
"Escape from Pain" is en EP release by US thrash metal act Intruder. The EP was released through Metal Blade Records in August 1990 and bridges the gap between the band´s 2nd and 3rd full-length studio albums "A Higher Form of Killing (1989)" and "Psycho Savant (1991)". "Escape from Pain" features exactly the same lineup who recorded "A Higher Form of Killing (1989)". Jimmy Hamilton (Vocals), John Pieroni (Drums), Todd Nelson (Bass), Greg Messick (Guitars), and Arthur Vinnett (Guitars).
So it´s no surprise the musicianship is overall on a high level. A decent playing rhythm section, fast rhythmic riffing, blazing solos, and the high pitched vocals by Jimmy Hamilton in front. This is basically classic 80s Bay Area influenced thrash metal with a melodic inclined singer in front. I hear nods towards both early Metallica and Megadeth, as well as to Anthrax. Intruder doesn´t have the most original sound, but they do deliver their music in a relatively convincing manner.
"Escape from Pain" features 5 tracks and a full playing time of 29:25 minutes. "25 or 6 to 4" is a Chicago cover, but the remaining four tracks are originals. The quality of the material is overall decent, but seldom particularly memorable or above standard interesting. The 8:55 minutes long title track also features a song length, which ends up making it a bit of a tedious listen. So the material is generally alright but not really great.
Compared to "A Higher Form of Killing (1989)", the EP features a sound production which can´t match the one on the album. Especially the rhythm guitar features a flat and weak sound. Again it´s not a catastrophy, but it doesn´t really help on an already lurk warm impression of the EP. So upon conclusion this is a slight step down from "A Higher Form of Killing (1989)" and a 3 star (60%) rating is warranted.
