Many first heard about Trauma through Metallica, as this was the band Cliff Burton played in before Lars and James snagged the legendary bassist. Despite having one of metal’s big personalities in the band, Trauma’s one album released in the 80s remains just a footnote in metal history. The album is quite mediocre, plain and simple. The band was already over the following year after their debut album, “Scratch and Scream,” was released in 1984. Vocalist Donny Hillier and drummer Kris Gustofson reunited with the band in 2013, along with new members on bass and guitar. “Rapture and Wrath” was released in 2015 – an album with a sound that was too thin and songs that were dull. Fortunately, things loosened up in 2018, and I reviewed “As the World Dies” with a seven on Hell on Earth Metal Zine.
Since that album, vocalist and sole original member Donny Hillier passed away. Rest in peace, Donny! Brian Allen steps in – best known from Vicious Rumors. Hillier sang well, but Allen surpasses most. He bears a striking resemblance to Tim “Ripper” Owens when he sings. Allen has fantastic range and vocal register. The vocal work he does for Trauma here is so good that “Awakening” is flirting with a perfect ten and is easily the best album Trauma has made. But a ten is set high, and not all the songs are quite up there. Nevertheless, “Awakening” is a delightful album that ranks high when the year is summed up. Like a cheeky blend of Judas Priest, Metallica, and Sanctuary. If you like any of those bands, “Awakening” is an album you must check out.
Released September 9th, 2022 on Massacre Records.
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