Reviewed by Andy Shaw

Blast From Oblivion is a solo project by horror punk multi-instrumentalist Doug Harvey aka Splatter Guts and this is the debut release put out through SkyBurnsBlack Records. The album takes on a largely autobiographical concept journeying through thoughts of suicide ("Lycanthropy") and the depths of drug addiction ("Dismemberment Lane") to the redeeming love of Christ ("Epiphany In Hell"). Harvey lays bare his emotions through the lyrics and this is matched by the impassioned vocals and the energy that flows through the music. There are some melodic moments such as the picked guitar intro to "Duck Duck Ghouls" and the instrumental track "Thoughts And Prayers" but this album largely sticks to the punk formula of chugging guitar riffs and breakneck drum beats. The production has a very raw DIY feel and whilst you don't want a polished production its lo-fi elements do rather get in the way - for instance, the drums are tinny and don't have the power to back up the heavy guitar riffs and most worryingly the timing is a little out in places. There is however a lot to admire about the passion, energy and emotion of this record.

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