by John Kindred
— Publisher —
Late in 2021, guitarist Toby Knapp released a four-song EP titled Psychic Contagion. The EP precedes his next full-length effort titled From the Aether, to be released by Moribund Records.
According to Knapp the music on Psychic Contagion, “I felt really inspired and recorded four instrumental tunes that I might have tried to add to my forthcoming coming Moribund Records solo album, From The Aether. It’s too late to do that, that album is in production. Shredguy Records agreed to release the EP and it’s kind of a companion to the Moribund album coming in January.” — Bravewords.
On the opening track, “Damnation’s Corridor,” Knapp comes out with guns blazing. Furious shred over a driving beat. The very thrash-inspired, “Black Light Temple,” follows up with an aggressive, heavy-handed rhythmic guitar as the sound bed for Knapp’s fretboard dynamics. The music pushes forward into a lovely melodic interlude that displays the his mastery of the instrument.
“Abramelin Carousel” is another intense tune. Opening with a blistering lead run that leads to a catchy melodic groove, and continues into a Neo-classical guitar solo. This song is reminiscent of our heroes from the ‘80s who made Shrapnel Records infamous. Closing out the jaunt through shred-land is “Hydrophobia 2.” Moreover, with a final breath, there is no let up from the intense, aggressive nature of Knapp’s musical inclinations.
The total EP clocks in at 13 minutes. As soon as you hit play, the intensity and aggressive performance punches you in the gut and assault your senses, and just as quickly, it’s over. Leaving one in a daze. Can’t wait to hear From the Aether, which sounds as if this continues Knapp’s expressive musical journey.
Genre: Thrash, Instrumental, Shred
Band:
Toby Knapp – everything
Track Listing:
1. Damnation’s Corridor
2. Black Light Temple
3. Abramelin Carousel
4. Hydrophobia 2
Label: Shredguy Records
Online: https://shredguyrecords.storenvy.com/
Hardrock Haven rating: 
(8 / 10)
