SPEED KILLS – Marasma

Speed Kills returns from Florence. Active since 2011, the band evolves with each release. Their first demo, Badass Death (2012), was the most playful and melodic. The EP Devastation Unleashed (2014) raised the bar stylistically and conceptually, delivering a more abrasive, intense sound. The self-titled debut album (2018) marked full maturation, featuring crisp production and a style balanced seamlessly between speed/thrash and hardcore punk energy.

 

Seven years later, the second album, Marasma, arrives with the same spirit—aggressive, direct, and with new twists. The intro, Announcement, sets the stage for Platform 9, a relentless track with rapid riffs and shifting tempos. It mixes groove with thrash- and punk-style attacks. Velociraptor, originally from their first EP, returns with added power and fits into the album’s flow before the title track. The title track fuses rough thrash riffs and fragmented, spoken-shouted vocals in a striking crescendo. Though the songwriting feels most complete here, a few extra seconds could have expanded the atmosphere. 341 takes a longer route with more intricate riffing, never slowing. H.P.V. drives forward with pounding rhythm and heavier vocals, but lacks a memorable moment due to abrupt transitions. The band compensates with Speedcore, which leaves a lasting impression through fast riffs, militant drumming, and powerful vocals, enhanced by classic thrash/punk gang vocals. Graffiti, another standout, keeps tension high with tight riffs, edgy vocals, and relentless pacing; its only downside is its brevity. Finally, Quello che siamo closes the album with impact, slowing down slightly but maintaining energy after just over 24 minutes.

 

With Marasma, Speed Kills exhibits steady progress. The album is a no-frills sprint, delivering maximum energy in minimum time. Four of nine tracks use Italian lyrics, injecting both punch and freshness. A few more memorable hooks or more dynamic changes could have elevated some tracks, but these are minor points. Overall, the album is solid and purposeful, marking a clear improvement. Speed Kills is now a band to watch.