Dead Boy Productions

No Turning Back - Holding On
(Reflections Records)
Review by Pavel

Reflections Records is one of the most respected hardcore labels and not without reason. The Netherlands based label, has on its roster big names in the genre such as Terror, Converge, Kill Your Idols and Good Clean Fun to name just a few. It also has a reputation for releasing some of the most inspiring European hardcore bands, and No Turning Back from The Netherlands isn’t an exception. Their third album to date, “Holding On”, is solidifying their position as flag bearers of European hardcore all over the world. The 14 tracks of “Holding On”, in the old-school NYHC vein, are real examples of how today’s hardcore should sound. You have heavy riffs, really fast and pounding rhythm section, and massive sing-a-longs. What else could you possibly want? Yeah, I almost forgot! No Turning Back is expressing through their music their disgust and despise of the world they’re part of, and they are leaving no one indifferent. Songs about betrayal, friendship, hope and faith are backed up with merciless music. Song titles speak for themselves: « This World Is Mine », « Sick and Tired », « Thief »…Aram Arslanian of Champion came to support his peers as a guest vocalist. To truly appreciate No Turning Back, you have to see them performing live. Because the best way to see what hardcore is about, is in front of a scene, in the middle of a mosh-pit, filled with jumping, dancing people, going nuts and singing along to every song. Right there you can feel the raw energy of a live hardcore band. Touring alongside with bands like Madball, Champion, 100 Demons, and Sick of it All; No Turning Back learned how to deliver a kick ass live show, at least that’s what I’ve heard. If you get the chance to see them, when they’re coming in your area, don’t miss it. For now you can enjoy “Holding On”, which has beautiful artwork by the way, and mosh in your living room. Just be careful not to break anything!