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TONKA’s …This Present Darkness… is an ambitious debut that defies easy classification and challenges the listener’s expectations from the very first spin. While the label "thrash metal" might suggest a straightforward, high-speed barrage of riffs, TONKA takes a completely different approach, blending elements of heavy and power metal with a progressive mindset that sets them apart from the crowd.
The album brims with intelligent and dynamic compositions, steering clear of genre clichés and instead offering something that feels genuinely fresh. The band’s unique chemistry is evident, with Bernardo and Yngve providing a rhythm section that is both tight and versatile, laying a foundation for inventive riffing that never feels derivative. Teo’s vocals are a standout feature—simultaneously melodic and raw, emotional yet aggressive, his delivery is a breath of fresh air. Every lyric is delivered with clarity and purpose, eschewing the typical guttural approach for something more nuanced and impactful.
Tracks like the opening duo, “Secondary World” and “Pornochild,” demonstrate TONKA’s flair for the unexpected, packed with intricate tempo changes, rhythmic shifts, and progressive twists that demand repeated listens. On the other end of the spectrum, darker offerings such as “The Last Abduction” and “The Mother & The Beast” showcase the band’s ability to explore moodier, more ominous territory, while the pseudo-ballad “N.N.S.B.T.” surprises with its seamless transformation into a crushing power-thrash anthem.
Beyond the music, …This Present Darkness… is a work of art in its presentation. The thoughtful booklet design gives each lyric its own space, paired with evocative imagery that complements the band’s introspective and refreshingly cliché-free storytelling. Even the band name, TONKA, feels like a deliberate choice to set them apart in a crowded scene.
This album is not merely a collection of songs; it’s a statement of intent. TONKA refuses to adhere to the well-trodden paths of their peers, instead forging a bold and innovative identity. With a debut this strong, they have the potential to become trailblazers for a new wave of genre-defying metal. Keep an eye on this Norwegian quartet—they are poised for great things.
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