“I´m talking about form, I´m talking about content, I´m talking about into relationships, I´m talking about God, the devil, hell, heaven…do you understand? Finally?” Wow, ich weiß nicht aus welchem Film dieses Zitat geklaut ist, welches so vehement den Song „Descent Into Madness“ einleitet, aber genau so wie der Schauspieler sich zum Ende in Rage schreit, so wüten die fünf Kalifornier auf ihrem Zweitwerk „Kaos Among Us“. Neugierig wurde ich auf die Oaklander Kaos aufgrund ihrer Firmierung „S.F. Bay Area Thrash Metal“. Als ich einige Tage nach der Order „Kaos Among Us“ im Briefkasten hatte und das Päckchen öffnete, blieb mir das erste Mal die Spucke weg, denn was mir entgegen fiel war ein mehrseitiges, farbiges Digi-Pack zum Aufklappen mit Texten und allem was dazu gehört. Dazu eine Pressemappe mit Photos, Poster, Aufklebern etc. Absolut professionell …und wesentlich mehr als man eigentlich erwarten darf. Würden die großen Labels alle CDs so komfortabel aufmachen, dann müssten sie sich weniger Gedanken über illegale Raubkopien machen. Das zweite Mal klappte mein Unterkiefer herunter, als ich „Kaos Among Us“ in den Player schmiss und ziemlich unvorbereitet unter die Dampfwalze geriet. Was die Jungs hier entfesseln ist zwar kein reinrassiger Thrash, aber die Aggressionen, die hier verarbeitet werden lassen sich wohl in Megatonnen messen. Der Bay Area Thrash alter und neuerer Schule (Marke Slayer, Dark Angel, Vio-lence, Death Angel und Machine Head) wird mit der Ungeschliffenheit solcher Acts wie Nuclear Assault gepaart und mit Vocals a la Phil Anselmo, wie er angepisster gar nicht klingen könnte, garniert. Sprich, ihr findet auf „Kaos Among Us“ nicht nur fetten Thrash, sondern auch eine gehörige Portion Hardcore, welche sich nicht nur auf den Gesang von Jason Darnell bezieht, sondern auch auf die Attitüde und die Grooves. Die beiden Gitarristen blasen mit einer Affengeschwindigkeit durch die Riffs und Soli, während Bass und Drums viel Wert auf massive Grooves legen und der Hardcore-lastige Gesang dem Ganzen noch mehr Aggression und Brutalität verleiht. Perfekt in Szene gesetzt und mit einem fetten Sound versehen wurde „Kaos Among Us“ übrigens von Mark Keaton in den Sharkbite Studios in Oakland. Irgendwie erinnern mich Kaos ein wenig an die Thrashcorler von Stampin´ Ground. Reinhören sollten damit nicht nur Thrash-, sondern auch alle Harcore-Fans. Sichert euch dieses Album für 10 US-$ plus Porto. Ich kann mir nicht vorstellen, dass ein Deal noch weit entfernt ist. http://www.kaosamongus.com
PS: Der eingangs zitierte Satz stammt übrigens von Jack Nicoholson aus “Einer flog übers Kuckusnest”.
8/10 - SBr

Kaos "Kaos Among Us" Review By Damien, Metal Side, Poland. (http://www.geocities.com/deathmetalside/mainpage6.html)

About a year ago I reviewed Kaos from Texas. Now it's time for Kaos from
California. While the band from Texas plays old-school thrash/speed metal,
California's act uses more modern ideas, although thrash metal is still the
core. However, if you called this material a metal-core release, I wouldn't
criticize such idea. Kaos compose catchy tracks that have memorable riffs,
although aggressive enough to please the orthodox fans, who don't accept
radio-friendly songs. It's interesting mixture. The band's members are very
good instrumentalists, and their skills should attract the attention of
record labels. The vocalist has a good, expressive style. His voice isn't
clean although he really sings: this is not growling. It reminds me of Held
Under's vocals. By the way, this band from New York State is the best
comparison that comes to my mind. Kaos material is mainly mid-paced, but
from time to time Californians present a real talent to play fast
speed/thrash metal songs (think of Violence from "Oppressing the Masses"),
which have some hard-core elements as well. I think that they are even
better than mid-paced compositions. Kaos' faster tracks will rock you!
Generally speaking, "Kaos Among Us" is one of the most interesting thrash
metal and/or metal-core albums released in 2003. That's why it really
doesn't matter how you will classify it.





KAOS "Kaos Among Us" Review by Radisic Bosko, Vault 'Zine.
Finally the follow-up to their 2000 debut “Vision Beyond”. One thing is undeniable when you listen to this set of songs: Kaos are getting heavier as time passes by. Needless to say that this is the change I’d always welcome. Now, don’t get too excited, I have a couple more words to say. For all you purists, this is not a typical thrash metal band and I doubt guys from Kaos would ever throw out the present diversity and strip their music down to something as simple as that. As much as I love the classic thrashing violence, it would be a damn shame for these guys to become something like that. Once you get used to their weird, almost unique approach to the mentioned style, with all kinds of modern stuff thrown in, yet never polluting the metal foundations, you’ll surely appreciate it very much. Old guys: Jason Darnell (vocals), Stacey Murray (guitar), Jay Figueroa (bass), Joe Loescher (guitar), teamed up with Burton P. Ortega on drums to create “Kaos Among Us”. While I find it more diverse from its predecessor, it’s interesting to see this alteration also got them back towards (or backwards) the more basic metal sound. It usually happens the other way around. You will find no nu-metal crap here, have no fears, but from time to time you could face some Machine Head-like riffing and even HC guitaring. Jason’s voice is well beyond what I comprehend as normal metal vocal, no doubt that won’t change. This time I payed more attention to lyrics as they are very strong and make you think about the world we’re living in, even if that sight is gross and painful (as it is). This CD came to my hands in a great digi-pack box with everything printed on the box, thus there is no booklet. It’s also released on their own label Oblivion Entertainment and I hope that they’ll manage to promote it like it deserves. Face the fact that kaos is among us and welcome it to your life, but only in this sonic form.
www.kaosamongus.com
(8/10)

KAOS
KAOS AMONG US 45:33
OBLIVION ENTERTAINMENT / US-IMPORT Review By Stephan Becker, www.obliveon.de,
“I´m talking about form, I´m talking about content, I´m talking about into relationships, I´m talking about God, the devil, hell, heaven…do you understand? Finally?” Wow, ich weiß nicht aus welchem Film dieses Zitat geklaut ist, welches so vehement den Song „Descent Into Madness“ einleitet, aber genau so wie der Schauspieler sich zum Ende in Rage schreit, so wüten die fünf Kalifornier auf ihrem Zweitwerk „Kaos Among Us“. Neugierig wurde ich auf die Oaklander Kaos aufgrund ihrer Firmierung „S.F. Bay Area Thrash Metal“. Als ich einige Tage nach der Order „Kaos Among Us“ im Briefkasten hatte und das Päckchen öffnete, blieb mir das erste Mal die Spucke weg, denn was mir entgegen fiel war ein mehrseitiges, farbiges Digi-Pack zum Aufklappen mit Texten und allem was dazu gehört. Dazu eine Pressemappe mit Photos, Poster, Aufklebern etc. Absolut professionell …und wesentlich mehr als man eigentlich erwarten darf. Würden die großen Labels alle CDs so komfortabel aufmachen, dann müssten sie sich weniger Gedanken über illegale Raubkopien machen. Das zweite Mal klappte mein Unterkiefer herunter, als ich „Kaos Among Us“ in den Player schmiss und ziemlich unvorbereitet unter die Dampfwalze geriet. Was die Jungs hier entfesseln ist zwar kein reinrassiger Thrash, aber die Aggressionen, die hier verarbeitet werden lassen sich wohl in Megatonnen messen. Der Bay Area Thrash alter und neuerer Schule (Marke Slayer, Dark Angel, Vio-lence, Death Angel und Machine Head) wird mit der Ungeschliffenheit solcher Acts wie Nuclear Assault gepaart und mit Vocals a la Phil Anselmo, wie er angepisster gar nicht klingen könnte, garniert. Sprich, ihr findet auf „Kaos Among Us“ nicht nur fetten Thrash, sondern auch eine gehörige Portion Hardcore, welche sich nicht nur auf den Gesang von Jason Darnell bezieht, sondern auch auf die Attitüde und die Grooves. Die beiden Gitarristen blasen mit einer Affengeschwindigkeit durch die Riffs und Soli, während Bass und Drums viel Wert auf massive Grooves legen und der Hardcore-lastige Gesang dem Ganzen noch mehr Aggression und Brutalität verleiht. Perfekt in Szene gesetzt und mit einem fetten Sound versehen wurde „Kaos Among Us“ übrigens von Mark Keaton in den Sharkbite Studios in Oakland. Irgendwie erinnern mich Kaos ein wenig an die Thrashcorler von Stampin´ Ground. Reinhören sollten damit nicht nur Thrash-, sondern auch alle Harcore-Fans. Sichert euch dieses Album für 10 US-$ plus Porto. Ich kann mir nicht vorstellen, dass ein Deal noch weit entfernt ist. w
8/10




Recent Fan Letter:
Spent the last two days listening to your disc. All the reviews were gross understatements. The guitars shred,yet have melody and structure. The rythem section is bombastic and tight.
Your vocal range is hard to believe. Alot of music delivers high energy but KAOS AMONG US delivers high energy with emotional content.There's a difference.
 
Simply put,from start to finish KAOS AMONG US is a monster!
 
Much appreciation
Tony-Las Vegas, Nevada




Review By DoobaN (8/10) www.mip.av.pl , Poland
sk∏ad: Stacey Murray - guitar, Jason Darnell - vocals, Jay Figueroa - bass, Joe Loescher - guitar, Burton P. Ortega - drums

NowoczeÊnie zaaran½owany Thrash robi ostatnimi czasy zawrotna karier´. Nie doÊç, ½e ostatnio namno½y∏o si´ powrotów pokroju Invocator, czy nowych p∏yt starych wyjadaczy (Anthrax), to powsta∏o bez liku nowych kapel, które grajà Thrash, nadajàc mu nowoczesny sznyt.

Przy pierwszym przes∏uchaniu 'Kaos Among Us' mia∏em nieodparte wra½enie, ½e w podobnym klimacie ∏upa∏o nasze Turbo na 'Epidemiach' (pos∏uchajcie zw∏aszcza chórków!). Tyle, ½e Kupczyk i spó∏ka nagrali wówczas cholernie syntetycznà p∏yt´, a Kaos ma pe∏ne, soczyste brzmienie, wpadajàce czasem w Thrash/Deathowy klimat. Kr´gos∏upem Kaos sà naturalnie gitary, które tnà ca∏kiem przyjemne riffy, tak w dominujàcych rozp´dzonych partiach (np. najszybszy na p∏ycie utwór tytu∏owy), jak i w walcowatym 'God As My Witness'. Cudnie po blachach t∏ucze Ortega, co potwierdza, ½e latynosi sà cholernie muzykalnym narodem. Solosy duetu Murray - Loescher równie½ trzymajà poziom, podkreÊlajàc klimat ka½dego z 12 utworów. Ciekawostkà jest tak½e wokal Darnella, czyli coÊ na skocznà nutk´ HC/Thrash.

'Kaos Among Us' gwarantuje 3 kwadranse niez∏ej rozrywki, pod warunkiem, ½e lubicie nowoczesne oblicze Thrashu, wpadajàcego bardzo rzadko w Deathowe rejony. Na dobra spraw´ Kaos to dla mnie wypadkowa Slayer i Anthrax. Fani takiej muzy wiedzà, co nale½y zrobiç. A wszystko to podane w pi´knie wykonanym digi-packu. Nic tylko s∏uchaç! Dobre.

Review By Jason, Friday 13th Zine', www.friday13thmetal.com, United Kingdom
Well here's a band from the past, I can't believe there still around!! I am glad that they are though. I remember reviewing their demo back in 1990 and still the band are back for more and as hungry and pissed off as ever!! This 5 piece from the U.S. are certainly going to go places if given the chance, mixing old school Thrash with some hard edge Nu-Metal (A word I don't take lightly too) mixing the sounds of somewhere between Kreator, Machine Head, Slayer in a pissed off attitude. This debut album is a great taster for that is to come in the near future, and as it comes in a nice digi pk means that the band have really put some effort into the packaging and production, for a self financed release. I have to take my hat off to them for trying. The production si solid and it makes the music raw and very brutal at times. The albums comes with 12 brutal heavy edge trax with catchy riifs and hooks. Check Out: The Rage Of War, Burning Scars, Live Forever, Descent Into Madness, Awakened By Death, Open Your Past. A decent debut well worth a listen, for more into go to my web Linx for their address. Nice one lads!!





KAOS "Kaos Among Us" (12 Song CD) Oblivion Entertainment
Review By Burt Wolf www.beowolfproductions.com Phoenixville, PA. USA
KAOS is fucking great!!! I loved these guys from the first song to the last. These guys play Death Metal styled music that is slammed face first into Hardcore music. There is such intensity & powerful aggression pouring out of this band. I love all the very addictive Hardcore influence grooves they have throughout their songs. The guitar sound has heavy Thrash influences as well. The vocals are done in Hardcore/Death Metal crossover screams. These guys are definately one of my favorite bands in the underground scene today!!! Get this disc!!!

KAOS: KAOS AMONG US Review By Jeff Urotsukidoji www.geocities.com/urotsukidoji_1/ CANADA
This is the band's 2nd release, their first being 2000's "Vision Beyond". The name of the game here is straight-up Thrash, we're talking old-school Bay area Thrash with a capital fuckin' "T". Sure, they've added a few twists here and there to modernize things, but all throughout this disc I'm constantly reminded of stuff like "Seasons in the Abyss" era Slayer, Vio-Lence, Nuclear Assault, Death Angel, and even Exodus. The term "Hardcore" keeps getting thrown around when people are describing this band's sound, but I really don't hear it. I think that term (Hardcore) is getting used way to fuckin' freely by Metal-heads, just like the pointless "Melodic Death-Metal" tag that's getting slapped onto everything these days.

Stupid kids... am I so out of touch... ? No, it's the children who are wrong...

We really have to tone this shit down people. Sick Of It All is a Hardcore band, Kaos is a Thrash band, end of story (and if you call it Thrashcore you should be bitch-slapped). But, I digress, let's dig into the disc a bit shall we? First off, the packaging, holly tap-dancing Christ! For an independent release, this is just gorgeous! Labels take note, it's awesome presentation like this that'll help curb music downloading, not your plan to sue every kid under 20 years of age. The music however is what really matters, and Kaos delivers the goods. We have a dozen well constructed, searing Thrash songs, filled with wicked guitar licks, and nasty vocals, both of which lash out like a psycho with a straight razor! The production is full, and crisp, but still has that underground edge to it. This is how I wanted Metallica's latest poop-fest "St. Anger" to sound... if only the 'tallica boys could have afforded the production talents of Mark Keaton, oh well, maybe next time. Trying to list some standout tracks is rather pointless, as there are no weak links to be found here, but "Descending Into Madness" is one of the best slices of Metal I've been served in months. Kaos have brought back a vibe that I thought had been dead for over a decade. This makes me want to dust off parts of my collection I haven't played in years. I mean damn, I have the entire Nuclear Assault catalogue sitting on my shelf, but I'd be hard pressed to tell you when I last pulled out one of those discs and actually played it. This weekend, I'm taking a one-way trip to 1988, a trip I think everyone reading this needs to take now and then. Kaos Among Us is for me, a reminder of why I loved all this shit 16 years ago, as well as a bright hope for the future, the hope that like Rock 'n Roll, Thrash will never die. For more info, check the band out at kaosamongus.com.

RATING = 8.5 Thrash-Metal (Released 2003)




KAOS- “Kaos Among Us”
Review by: Luke Offield 01/14/04
www.heavycore.org

When I first received Kaos’ promo pack in the mail, what initially grabbed my attention was how professional it was. I mean PROFESSIONAL. This is the kind of package you see from a national act, with national respect and recognition. I’m sure if they keep up with what they’ve done on this album, they will be very soon.

As the opening track “Mass of Fury,” starts, it gives you that “live” feeling. As if you’re not alone. You’re surrounded by numerous other metalheads. You’re ready to KICK ASS. And as “The Rage of War” begins, you’re delivered a style of metal rarely achieved and even more rarely heard. Now the feelings of “Rage” culminate. And the attack begins. The attack comes swiftly, but is short by no means. 12 detrimental songs is how long this battle will last. Destructive until the very end. Some songs like the title track “Kaos Among Us” are delivered with instant ferocity and some songs like “God As My Witness” are presented with a bit of stealth. As if maybe to throw you off track from the continued assault your ears are receiving. Whatever it is, one thing is for sure. These guys are definatly doing it something different. And doing it THEIR way. The “live” feeling of which I spoke about earlier continues as some of the songs have everyone in the band yelling out the words as a sort of metal choir. “Live” however does not describe the quality of the album. It’s damn near perfect. Here comes that word again: professional.

The vocal style of Jason Darnell is vicious. It burned off my eyebrows at first listen. He goes from the screams of a demon up to the high pitch cries of an enraged eagle. Not to mention the lyrics, which are about as dark and true as they come. Stacey Murray and Joe Loescher blaze through these songs with Slayer-esque speed, precision and ability. Not only are the riffs heavy and bone crushing, their soloing style grabs you by the soul and makes you damn glad you’re a metalhead. Much unlike all too many metal albums, Jay Figueroa’s crushing bass lines are completely audible throughout the entire album. Burton Ortega’s drumming is stellar, and provides the perfect base to build a style of metal this innovative on. While there is a lot new going on in Kaos’ style of thrash/death metal, there is a lot familiar in it too. Which is comforting in a time when so many bands are forgetting their roots. It’s the truest of thrash with the newest of ideas. All the while, keeping their metal solid, forceful and well understood. Kaos IS among us…





Band: Kaos
Album: Kaos Among Us (Self-Release)
Year: 2004
Rating: 9/10

Bay Area Thrashers Kaos have been getting some great reactions lately and have gained some excellent reviews amongst the press, so the arrival of their new full-length "Kaos Among Us" was the ideal time to delve into why?

Kaos successfully blend hardcore with thrash to create a style very similar to Stampin Ground's "A New Darkness...", great riffs, technical lead work, blazing percussion and all with a real energy to create an exceptional album. There is also plenty of variety during the album which keeps things interesting throughout. There's not much more to say really other than I can see why they've been getting some amazing reactions, a heavy, hard working band that really deserves to be known

You can tell when albums are just thrown together, and you can tell when albums have been placed together and actually worked on, which is exactly what we have here. It would be a crime if Kaos didn't progress onto much bigger things. One of the best self-releases I've heard in a while.

Metal Mayhem www.metal-mayhem.co.uk 
United Kingdom-Review by Chris Rogers




 
KAOS "Kaos Among Us" (Self Released 2003)
A few months ago I heard a little from Bay Area rockers Kaos. I really liked what I heard and was eager to hear more. Recently, the band's new CD, "Kaos Among Us," fell into my hands and I was thrilled at the prospect of giving some pixel ink to this awesome band. 

"Kaos Among Us" is thunderous, high voltage metal that borders on the frantic and honestly left me breathless. The lyrical content is harsh and yet poetic and effortlessly draws you into the band's darkly rich world. 

This five member band belts out tune after mysterious tune with nary a beat between explosive ditties. This extremely talented  band and their music pound relentlessly from the opening note and keeps you entranced for over 45 minutes until they finally let go of your throat and out of their musical grasp. A classic. This record will kick your ass.
http://www.kaosamongus.com. 

Rough Edge www.roughedge.com
USA-Reviewed by Snidermann
 




 
Kaos - Kaos Among Us (After The End Publishing)

Another band from United States sends to us their work. This is their second album. This release has twelve power, thrash, brutal songs. Yes all these together with the signature of Kaos.  

When I first hear their album, my though is that why this band isn’t in a big label. The music of Kaos can’t categorize, they have elements from thrash metal, elements from death metal and very aggressive vocals. They have very good drum parts and very heavy guitar riffs. Last but not least, Kaos also have some modern elements and all these are the music of Kaos.  

Even if, I don’t like the vocal parts, imagine the vocals of Phil Anselmo, and you can get a small picture, how the vocals are. So as I said before, even if I don’t like the vocals, I like their music. Of course Kaos, is a band that you can count on them. Check them out. 

The Temple of Metal www.thetempleofmetal.com
Greece-Review by Antonis Maglaras
 



 
KAOS "Kaos Among Us"
Oblivion Entertainment

After reviewing a 3-track promo a few months ago, here is the full version of KAOS new album. 12 Tunes of raging Thrash Metal the old-school way, nothing really in common with bands such as THE HAUNTED and alikes. These tunes have more of an underground touch, which doesn't mean its unprofessional. No, instead of putting a lot os sweat and money into a huge and expensive production with sheer heaviness, the band has concentrated on what made the american Thrash Metal successful in the mid/late 80's : good riffing, nice accelerations, lotsa breaks and many guitar parts. But the most noticeable elements come from vocals, delivered with sheer fury, sometimes almost puked! Other KAOS trademark come from the shouted choruses.

This excellent release might also be of interest for the Power Groove lunatics who appreciate accelerations in their music…

A pure underground delight!

Pull the Chain www.pullthechain.be 
Belgium-Review by Steph



Kaos "Kaos Among Us"
Oblivion Entertainment

Kaos knows metal. With Kaos Among Us, this Bay Area band unleashes fire-breathing vocals on top of concrete walls of guitar, sustaining open chord distortion and fast-action lead work. This is one of the best examples of the current Bay Area thrash sound. Unlike many groups of this type, Kaos stands out with socially conscious screams that are actually understandable (rather than the standard mumbled Cookie Monster variety) and musical arrangements that are complimentary rather than mush layered in heaps of volume. Even when the double bass drumming is in all out rapid-fire mode, it doesn’t clutter the sound of the rhythm guitar and bass—an amazing feat when dealing with this extreme of a sound.

Most importantly, however, is that this disc is heavy, badass, devil-horn metal—even if it promotes life-affirming decisions. From the first brutal riff of “Mass of Fury” to the ambitious “Paralyzed By Fear” and the anthem-esque title track, there is no question this is a top tier heavy NorCal band. When the mood for metal strikes, Kaos is ripe to serve.

Zero Magazine www.zeromag.com
USA-Review by Colin Kutch


 
Kaos - Kaos Among Us

Kaos, hailing from Hayward, California, has a long history in the heart of the Bay Area scene. First off, the band has done several gigs from the early ´90s up to 2003, playing with some more known Thrash Metal acts as Exodus, Vio-lence, Death Angel, Testament, Epidemic, etc. to name just a few. Their energetic live sets have impressed lots of people wherever they have played and I can only wish I might have a change to witness them playing live some day. Probably just a wishful thinking from me as I live a wasteland called Finland...

However, even if Kaos has been around more than a full decade, they have managed to do only two full-length albums so far. The band´s debut (titled VISION BEYOND) came out in 2000 which I unfortunately haven´t heard. Shame on me...

The band approached me with an email a couple of weeks ago, asking whether I could be interested in reviewing their follow-up album, KAOS AMONG US, for Metal-Rules.com. I´m glad I responded immediately back to them because the band´s 2nd album totally kicks butts, cunts and bones. 12 songs on here that could musically be described as a mixture of both Thrash Metal – and Hardcore elements, so let´s call it simply ´Thrashcore´. I think that term fits well into Kaos to describe how they overall sound on KAOS AMONG US. They have sucked cleverly influences from both of these two specific styles, put them together in a very fitting, tasty and thought-out way in order to sort of create a unique and unforgettable face for Kaos´ sound. They don´t limit themselves in some specific mold that much at all, but let their music wander quite freely between an aggressive and somewhat technical Thrash Metal parts and some more Hardcorish parts that basically add an angrier and more straight-up vibe into their sound. Kaos delivers a pretty damn unique package of a furious and definitely in-yer-face Thrash (-core) that should wheedle an unnumbered bunch of Thrash –fans to check them out. They impressed me anyway, so why not you as well?

They also use quite a lot of certain type of ´shout´ –choruses in their songs that overall add a general feeling about a Thrash Metal act that isn´t afraid of using a bit Hardcore –tinged ingredients here and there in the songs.

However, there are a few familiar elements on KAOS AMOMG US that I just couldn´t leave completely unnoticed. For example, the opening guitar riff in the very beginning of “Live Forever” reminded me positively a bit of a mixture of “Guilty of Innocence” by Death Angel and “Nuclear War” by Nuclear Assault whereas songs like “Awakened by Death” and “Open Your Past” have both a cool Slayer -vibe in them both and a guitar riff for the beginning of “F.O. (Die Young, Die Old)” brought the mighty Vio-lence to my mind in a somewhat peculiar way. Now having said that without hesitating a second and comparing them at least partly to Death Angel, Nuclear Assault and Slayer cannot be a bad thing by any means, can it?

Hmm... I guess I need to purchase their debut album for myself next. These guys know how to kick your fuckin´ teeth into the very back of your throat. Damn awe-fuckin´-some stuff... the glorious Bay Area way, of course!!

Metal-Rules.com
Canada| Rating: 4.2/5
Reviewer: Luxi Lahtinen



 
KAOS - "Kaos Among Us"
[Oblivion Entertainment, 2003]
Genre: Thrash Metal
Country: U.S.A
Official Website(s): www.kaosamongus.com

The thrash metal genre used to be my favorite one 7 years ago. But since then my likings on metal music have changed a lot. I still listen to thrash/death metal groups but I am very selective with this style. In fact, I haven’t stopped listening to thrash metal music or like it, but the last few years there is a plague upon it called "lack of qualitative groups and compositions". This plague has forced me to double check any new release before I decide to buy it.

KAOS have found the medicine and cured themselves from the plague. They call it "Kaos Among Us" and my lab analysis revealed its secret ingredients. It is consisted of: technicality on all aspects, powerful guitars by Stacey Murray and Joe Loescher, with catchy heavy riffs that are producing a massive solid sound, convincing and leading rhythm section, referring to Jay Figueroa’s and Burton Ortega’s bass and drums playing respectively, and very aggressive, always close to hardcore, vocals by Jason Durnell (imagine something close to Phil Anselmo). The last ingredient is the main feature of modern thrash groups and I believe it is responsible for some serious side effects on the genre, so in my opinion they can replace them with the good old thrash metal vocals, like they used to be in the 80’s and early 90’s, and a thrash singer like Jason has the abilities to accomplish this. I have written before that I am very choosy when it comes to vocalists and I really believe that a thrash metal band needs more screaming vocals, just like Mille’s from Kreator or Slayer’s Tom Araya.

Nevertheless the whole project is surely one of the best and most aggressive thrash metal albums I've heard the last few years. I must also make a special reference to the layout of the cd, a really excellent digipak edition, not to mention the promotional package!!! Professional work indeed!!! That’s the reason why I really believe this is a group of great potential and they will reach high levels. They have true bussinesslike attitude. They really like and believe in what they do and judging by the way they are trying to spread their music, I make out their will to achieve great things. They offer to the public something more than an ordinary cd case and taking into account that they are not on a contract with a big label, this is a great and attractable thing to do.

I will close this review with the best description I’ve read about KAOS’ music and it is taken from their biography: "The music they deliver has a heavy attack, an extremely aggressive vocal style with a punishing guitar sound, grooving bass and well rounded drumming". Do you need me to say more?

7,5/10
Metal Perspective www.metalperspective.com
Greece-Review by Alekos Tagmatarhis



KAOS -"Kaos Among Us"
Independant Recording

Let me start of by saying Kaos is not your "run of the mill" bay area thrash. I see these guys going places and doing big things!! Their sound is a mix of intense hard-core with an old school feel. It's like Slayer meets Hatebreed. With frontman Jason Darnell pounding out aggression in every track. This guy makes you feel just how pissed off he really is. Stacey Murray and Joe Leoscher compliment each other throughout the entire album and you can tell these guys can read each other like a book. Chugging out riff after riff of "punch you in the gut metal". Burton P. Ortega on drums reminds us just how important a good drummer has to be in an extreme metal band, and he does not disappoint. Rounding out the rhthym section is Jay Figeuroa on bass, keeping a steady groove all the way through the CD. You can definitely hear how much hard work and dedication this band puts into their song structure and recording. It sounds great! The production couldn't be better. It was Produced by Mark Keaton and Kaos and recorded and mixed by Mark Keaton at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California. Mastered at Stephen Marcussen Mastering in Hollywood, California. Altogether "Kaos Among Us" is a very impassioned and fervid album. Songs like "F.O.(Die Young, Die Old)" "The Rage of War" and "Descent Into Madness" show you how heavy of an album this is, while "God As My Witness" shows their multifarious song writing skills. Look for these guys to be on National tours in the future.

I would definitely recommend you go out and buy this CD. I would also recommend you go out and support Nor-Cal Metal and go to every Kaos show and every other local extreme metal show and I just might see you in the pit!!

Norther California Headbanger's Allience www.metalalliance.org
USA-Reviewed by NCHA's Own Josh Lyons





KAOS-"Kaos Among Us" by Falber Teles www.sourcewebzine.com.br
Coming of the more important cradle of the Thrash Metal World, the KAOS already is in the road there is enough time, but only in 2003 the group obtained record its first work.  The quintet from the Bay Scours sample in "Kaos Among Us" a work very well produced, based in the vocal insane one of Jason Darnell and in the good pair of guitarist formed by Stacey Murray and Joe Loescher.  "Burning Scars", "Live Forever" and "F.O." certain they highlight the quality of the album that shows perfect the potential of that talented group.  Recommendable hearing.  Mass of Fury and Session Demented!  To strong new effort from this Thrash Metal band who possess incredible musicianship and technicality.  Should appeal to all Thrash Bay Area fans!
(this review was translated with (www.freetranslation.com)


 

KAOS: 2003 PROMO-CD 3 TRX Review
by Thomas Trakas at Midwest Metal Magazine, USA.
I can’t help but think of Vio-Lence each and every time I play this three song disc by Bay Area bashers Kaos. From the menacing up-tempo thrash breakouts to the strange vocal phrasings to the solid lead work it’s cool to be honest. Vocally this guy is no Sean Killian and I either made a lot of people happy or sad but it’s true, this guy has a style all his own and suits the band to a T. So to wrap this up, Kaos, Bay Area thrash with gang backing vocals, killer singer cool shit indeed!





KAOS - KAOS Among Us (After The End Publishing)
Review by Pete - www.Heavycore.org U.S.A
 
One word I can come up with is WOW.  Kaos really outdid themselves with one hell of a release entitled "Kaos Among Us" and if I had my way, these guys would be out on tour with some heavy national - strutting their chops for legions of metal freaks.  This 12-song epic has some of the best packaging I've ever seen from any band, let alone one that's not signed and put it together themselves.  The artwork and photography is top notch and really looks great.  A very impressive effort!

The guitar work on this cd is simply incredible - with some of the most intricately woven solos I've heard on a cd in a very long time.  In a world where guitar players have been forgotten, Kaos shows that metal bands live and die by the skill of their axemen.  The duo of Stacey Murray and Joe Loescher on guitar really blew me the fuck away.  The vocals of Jason Darnell are very strong and compliment the band very well.  He's got a good mid range growl, along the lines of Phil Anselmo - but unique in his own right.  The bass playing of Jay Figueroa was exceptional and driving at all times.  I also was very impressed with the drumming of Burton Ortega - who threw the fuck down from the word go and never let up.
In short, this is a band that needs to be signed in a huge way.  They've got it all in one package and I demand that you go out and pick up this release if you dig heavy ass tunes that will blow your mind.  Here's a band who knows what metal is about and says fuck off to those who don't like it.

Check them out online at www.kaosamongus.com if you have the sack.





Kaos – Kaos (After the end publishing, Thrash, U.S.A, 2003)
Review by Carlaont Catalin www.spellofnight.8m.net Romania
 
K-A-O-S! God damn it I love this release. The sick vocals (one of the vocals I’ve ever heard) the catching riffs and the numerous breaks that are to be found on this MCD. Listening to “Paralyzed by the fear” I’ve had a new image of how a thrash metal song should sound. The most extreme song here is the third “Descent into madness” which has a very good refrain. This kind of music is not made to be listened at home, you got to see this live I think that they kick ass! Buy, buy, and buy!

Contact: kaos@kaosamongus.com
Playing Time: 12:02
100/100



 
 
KAOS - KAOS Among Us (Independent)
Review by Scott Alisaglu www.live4metal.com  England & U.S.A.

A review of KAOS’s 3-song demo appeared in Metal USA 9, my comments being that it was a solid thrash metal affair with bits of hardcore that was worth checking out but that didn’t necessarily blow me away. The band’s 12-song debut, KAOS Among Us, includes these same three songs and my impression of the album as a whole is even better than it was on the demo review. No, I’m still not blown away, but I am fairly impressed with the band’s metallic attack and heard no songs that I didn’t at least enjoy to some extent. The highlights are a sound focusing on ripping guitars, screaming axe leads, and cool, quasi-maniacal, vocals, especially on some of the shout choruses. It’s thrash at heart, 
punctuated with more traditional metal influences, all of which is rough and tumble. The rhythm section is tight; the drumming has a tough, hard-hitting, feel to it and Burton P. Ortega’s snaps, crackles, and pops are more than appealing. All these elements give the songs a coarse texture and generally fun metallic atmosphere. The tunes that really make their mark on the listener are ones like “Descent into Madness,” featuring a thrashing buzz saw guitar riff, furious pace, and riotous shout-chorus. The title track is another fine thrasher with an S.O.D. style hardcore- meets- metal approach. “God as my Witness” succeeds with a clean-picking intro, lumbering riffs and a building pace that actually reminded me of vintage Metal Church, Jason Darnell’s vocals being the only departure from the style. A healthy dose of Testament finds its way into several tracks as well. In the way of summary, KAOS Among Us is a solid album with plenty of variety and a spirited approach that should find a warm welcome in the stereos of most metalheads.





Kaos
Kaos Among Us

Without even playing this disc it already impresses, the packaging features a complete fold out heavy cardboard layout with cool art work and full lyrics inside the cover. Of course, after the spin, Kaos does nothing but just straight pump it heavy, taking what they did on their last effort (2000’s “Vision Beyond”) and times that effort by about twenty in terms of overall production, aggression and pure metal destruction.

Featuring guitarist Stacey Murrary, bassist Jay Figueroa, guitarist Joe Loescher, drummer Burton Ortega and the biggest holdover change from “Vision”, vocalist Jason Darnell, Kaos literally rips through each track here, pushing their sound to the maximum, then reaching in and pushing a little bit further.

The specific comparison between this and “Vision…” is automatically Darnell, as in the past year or so, has stepped his vocals to this hard edged growling style that has leant so much pent up aggro feel to this sound. On this disc, it becomes so much more apparent especially backed by Sharkbite Studios and its talented lead guy Mark Keaton.

Kaos has continually redefined what they do in their sound over the past three years, and “Kaos Among Us” is another definition of thrash meets pure aggro metal.
Hard to say anything bad about this recording, as it pumps pure metal from the first to the last and leaves little to no room for error.

Of the tracks the band has included here (which features some back catalog material), “Burning Scars”, “Paralyzed By Fear”, and especially “Awakened By Death”, really pump well.
Kaos landed smack dab in the middle of a total winner recording here. No question.


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