Hellbound: A story of oppression through thrash metal

For decades, music has been an integral part in highlighting social issues through melodic rhymes. While genres like metal can sometimes be perceived to lack any form of social commentary, this belief is quite inaccurate. Thrash is one such band, who are trying to change people's perception about the genre of metal.

Thrash's newest release "Hellbound" is a meticulously articulated narrative on oppressive establishments of authority and social hypocrisy, which is done using a character named 'Bagha' acting as a 'Dervish' (a member of a religious order, who has taken vows of poverty and austerity). The song alludes to how individuals denying religious and social stratification for good deeds are subjected to harsh repercussions for defying social norms or prejudice.

Additionally, the story also revolves around how the contributions and efforts of the general people are often made more challenging, if not completely nullified, due to the negligence and suppression of the authorities.

Thrash began their journey in 2011, with four friends hoping to establish a solid platform for thrash metal in Bangladesh. Their first EP was released in 2012 titled, "A lesson in Thrash", alongside two singles in mixed albums from G-series.

However, the band's line up went through some changes, which combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in their latest track being released after seven years. Currently, the band members include Sumit Gaurab on guitars, Shameer Azmi on bass and vocal and Muktadir Anzan on drums. With no designated frontman, the band makes sure every step is taken with the agreement of all members, while most of the musical decisions are taken by Sumit who is the composer.

Despite the long gap between releasing new tracks, Thrash's career has been eventful. They have performed in concerts at both national and international music festivals like Dhaka Rock Fest, Chattogram's Iron Hammer Fest, Kathmandu's Thrashmandu Fest, Kolkata's Fatal Attack and many more. The band have also gained recognition on various platforms like Bangladesh Musical Bands Association (BAMBA), one of the country's most prestigious band associations, as the first and only 'extreme metal band' to be included.

Popular musicians and bands like George Lincoln D' Costa from Artcell, Raef Al Hasan Rafa from Severe Dementia, Cryptic Fate, and Jamshed Chowdhury from Powersurge have also recognised Thrash's contribution to the local music scene. 

Thrash has experimented with their musical interests, eventually going on to find their own unique voice. "Now we know what we are doing, and more songs will be released regularly," said Sumit.

The band's core values have centred on the general people and their struggles in light of religious, political and social instability. Thrash hopes that their music and achievements will drive the nation's underground metal community to push for more mainstream exposure, while also bringing light to such injustices.