Cyclone Temple were on the move a bit too late, since the biggest thrash metal boom was shrinking fast when this debut album was released. Cyclone Temple were more than any average thrash metal band, both quality- and ideawise.

Formed by the ex-Znowhite (or Znöwhite whatever) man Greg "Ian Tafoya" Fulton, CT were a thinking man's thrash metal band. Think about those mature releases from the bands such as Anthrax, Metallica, Flotsam And Jetsam and Forbidden which they put out around 1986-1990. This is no insane alcohol induced thrash, but it carries really thought-out and well-built compositions. No need to be afraid about any grunge or "groove metal" here, because this is real metal. Four out of nine songs are big, seamless songs built out of mighty metal and darkly atmospheric colourings with acoustic guitar. As the vocalist Brian Troch was able to adapt to any style showcased by the band, the album is emotionally loaded. Talking about the vocals; think of John Bush (Anthrax, Armored Saint) with wider scale. Mr. Troch had the ability to sing well and there's a pinch of rawness, too. However, some vocal lines on 'Silence so Loud' sound shit for some reason. The thrashier songs work nicely, as the band were able and willing to sweat, too. Oh, and the band treat with gang vocals, too, so don't be afraid. 'Born to Lose' is more on the US heavy metal side of things, and is surely a refreshing piece on this musically quite varying, yet not fragmented album. I'd say the song quality vary from excellent to good.

The band's performance is very good. When it needs to be heavy, it is heavy. When it needs to shred, no problem. And those calmer acoustic moments, oh my fucking god... Good!!! Some pretty fast double kick drumming, by the way. The sound is okay, as all the nuances can be heard. This is a well balanced affair, except some of the cymbals are a tad too quiet. There's the feeling of big space in the sound, making it a bit too airy. Generally nothing special, but not much negative things to be said either. The lyrical themes have been picked from real life. Human emotions (loss, loneliness, two-faceness and of course hate), preachers of almighty dollar, war, racism and false justice. The lyrics are well written and are emotionally charged. The cover art is unique, but otherwise the artwork sucks, looking more like a reggae album or something.

'I Hate Therefore I Am' is a small gem from the beginning of 20th century. If your ears like mature thrash metal, there is no point in letting this album slip through your fingers. Pick it up, give it time and I believe you'd be hooked.

Rating: 7½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
05/19/2005 20:19