Feeling the sting of existence? Thrash metal titans SADUS have unleashed a music video for their track 'Pain,' a visceral anthem from their comeback album, 'The Shadow Inside.' Released in November 2023, this album marks 16 years since their last studio effort, a testament to the band's enduring power.
SADUS vocalist/guitarist Darren Travis delves deep into the core of the song, stating, "Pain is validation. It's the ultimate proof of existence." He sees pain not as a mere affliction, but as a vibrant signal of life, feeling, and the fight within. In a world that often seeks to numb or deny emotion, 'Pain' becomes a raw, honest expression. The fire in the video symbolizes both destruction and purification, a defiance against anguish.
Travis continues, "Despite the overwhelming presence of suffering, I refuse to be ruled by it." He emphasizes that pain, though sharp and dangerous, can be a potent source of creativity. Artists, thinkers, and survivors often transform their suffering into something powerful. "'Pain' isn't just about hurting — it's about what hurting reveals, what it demands, and what it can become."
But here's where it gets controversial... The album, 'The Shadow Inside,' was crafted over several years, with SADUS working at their own pace, free from the pressures of current trends. The recording was completed with Juan Urteaga (known for his work with EXODUS, TESTAMENT, and MACHINE HEAD) at Trident Studios. The album's artwork, created by Travis Smith (who has also worked with FLESHGOD APOCALPYSE and OPETH), adds another layer of depth.
'The Shadow Inside' is a contemporary thrash classic, featuring colossal riffs, break-neck rhythms, and blistering solos. The band released the first single, 'It's The Sickness,' in late 2022, followed by 'Ride The Knife' in September 2023.
Here's the track listing for 'The Shadow Inside':
- First Blood
- Scorched And Burnt
- It's The Sickness
- Ride The Knife
- Anarchy
- The Devil In Me
- Pain
- No Peace
- New Beginnings
- The Shadow Inside
And this is the part most people miss... In an interview with Chad Bowar of Heavy Music HQ, Darren explained that the album was completed primarily as a duo, with Travis and founding drummer Jon Allen. He mentioned the challenges of coordinating schedules with longtime bassist Steve DiGiorgio, who was involved in numerous projects. Travis said, "We just couldn't get it together time wise. Jon, on the other hand, moved into my house for a year or so, so we had plenty of time together to write music, which was a total blessing looking back. When it came time to record, Steve said he was not available, so we pushed on without him. We did not bring anyone into the mix out of respect for Steve. We couldn't have used the name of SADUS if we have new people, so just two Mohicans left as of now."
Regarding the reactivation of SADUS, Darren shared that a new app on his phone helped him to start writing riffs and playing guitar again, inspiring him to create new music.
What do you think? Does the concept of embracing pain as a source of strength resonate with you? Do you agree with the band's approach to creating music on their own terms? Share your thoughts in the comments!
