Anacrusis

ANACRUSIS formed during 1986 in St. Louis, MO.  After their Annihilation Complete demo (1987) garnered instant critical acclaim, the band signed a two album deal with UK label Active Records. The combo then released their debut and follow-up album, Suffering Hour and Reason in 1988 and 1990 respectively.  With their Active Records contract obligations fulfilled and momentum building, the band knew they needed a bigger marketing push behind them.  It was no surprise when Anacrusis signed on with U.S. powerhouse Metal Blade Records. This was exactly the kind of label the band needed in their corner.  Metal Blade eventually released Prog/Thrash/Power-Metal masterstrokes Manic Impressions (1991) and Screams & Whispers (1993) — both releases are considered forward-thinking metal landmarks.  Despite all the accolades the band received in 1993 they quietly disbanded following a European tour with Death.

After remaining dormant for more than 15 years, the band finally saw the release of its original Annihilation Complete demo in a limited edition CD/DVD set which included early video footage along with various demos and rehearsal clips.  With public interest re-engaged and a new crop of younger fans discovering the band, Anacrusis accepted an invitation to perform at Germany’s KEEP IT TRUE XIII festival the following year.  With all of the original members in place — Kenn Nardi, Kevin Heidbreder, John Emery and Mike Owen — ANACRUSIS decided to re-record their Suffering Hour and Reason albums, and they have now been presented as the new Hindsight collection.

“This is just a dazzling display of technicality fused with aggression that has to be heard to be believed.” – Hardrock Haven

“In short, they did it right – they didn’t go in and rewrite solos, make the lyrics ‘more mature,’ or try to tack on any 2010 insights onto 1988’s material. They went at it like they’d stepped outside in ’88 for a smoke break, got caught in a two-decade time warp, and then walked back into the studio for another take.” – Blabbermouth

“All in all, this re-recording unearths two excellent proggy Thrash albums once buried in poor production and youthful lack of restraint…This is one re-recording that is definitely worth having.” – Metal Crypt

“Anacrusis was one of the most unique progressive thrash bands of their time…Hindsight improves on all of the areas that needed work and otherwise stays faithful to the original songs.” – Sputnik Music

“If you are open to a barrage of influences, pretty surprising breaks and an extraordinary voice, then you are in the right place.” – Lords Of Metal