UMUR
"Demo 1988" is the first demo recording by Finnish thrash metal act Oppression. The demo was independently released in (as the title suggests) 1988. Oppression formed in 1987 and disbanded in 1992 after releasing three demos and one EP. All recorded material by Oppression was reissued on the 2015 "Scars 1988-1990" compilation album released through Xtreem Music.
Stylistically the 3 tracks on the 14:19 minutes long demo are in an aggressive thrash metal style which at times is even slightly technical in execution. When most brutal, fast-paced, and aggressive Oppression touch proto death-thrash metal territories. They are an incredibly well playing band considering that this is their first demo, and they even manage to bring variation with the heavy mid-paced and quite cleverly composed "Parasites". Oppression are no one-trick pony, although they still have a consistent musical style. Lead vocalist Santtu Laakso has a sandpaper raw delivery which perfectly suits the music.
The late 1980s Finnish thrash metal scene have some real gems hidden here and there (Mengele, Phlegethon and Protected Illusion are three other worthwhile recommendations) and this demo is one of them. Oppression is one of those artists where it´s hard to understand why they didn´t get a recording contract. There are tons of quality here both in terms of high level musicianship, a very well sounding demo production, and above all some well written and effective thrash metal tunes. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.
