Tools Of The Trade — Proclamation LP

Released on October 3, 2014, Proclamation is the debut full-length LP by Malaysian grindcore band Tools of the Trade. Issued by Strain Eyes Productions, Cactus Records and Kusottare Records in a limited edition of 300 vinyl copies, the album encapsulates the band's raw energy and socio-political commentary.

Proclamation delivers a relentless barrage of grindcore intensity across 18 tracks in approximately 18 minutes. The album features rapid-fire drumming, abrasive guitar riffs, and guttural vocals. With tracks like "Conviction" (1:47) and "Isolation" (0:55), the band maintains a high-octane pace.

While specific lyrics are not detailed in available sources, the track titles suggest themes of societal critique and personal struggle. Titles such as "Mass Indoctrination," "Stagnant Culture," and "Dominion of Evil" imply a focus on challenging oppressive systems and advocating for individual autonomy. 

The album's production was handled by Tom Bollocks, who managed mixing and engineering, while mastering was completed by Dan Randall (Mammoth Sound Mastering). The collaboration resulted in a sound that balances clarity with the rawness essential to grindcore. 

Proclamation stands as a significant ingress in the Malaysian grindcore scene, showcasing Tools of the Trade's dedication to the genre's core principles. The album's aggressive sound and thematic focus offer an unfiltered glimpse into the band's artistic vision.

Tools of the Trade 
A prominent grindcore band hailing from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; formed in 2004. Their music is characterized by a fusion of grindcore, crust punk and hardcore punk. Their sound is marked by rapid-fire drumming, abrasive guitar riffs, and guttural vocals. The band often addresses themes such as political unrest, social injustice, and daily oppression; reflecting their commitment to addressing real-world concerns through their music. The band's name is inspired by the 1992 EP Tools of the Trade by British grindcore pioneers Carcass, signaling their roots in the genre's foundational influences.

For all these years, they have been actively releasing albums and EPs. They have also participated in numerous split releases with bands like Extreme Decay, Demisor, and Endless Swarm, showcasing their collaborative spirit within the grindcore community.

Tools of the Trade has an impressive touring history, having performed across Southeast Asia and Europe. Notable appearances include the Obscene Extreme Festival in the Czech Republic and tours in countries like Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand.