Climate of Fear begins topically true to its 2007 release date.

Its tense, two-minute intro spews soundbites about the Iraq War, the Virginia Tech shootings, and so on.

However, its sound comes from two decades before.

Bitter End's debut full-length is an astoundingly faithful reproduction of late-'80s New York hardcore punk, when Agnostic Front, Cro-Mags, and Sick of It All ruled Gotham City.

All the ingredients are present -- chugging, quasi-metallic riffs; boisterous gang vocals; and a tough, gritty feel.

The accuracy of this throwback is even more amazing considering that this San Antonio band was in diapers during New York hardcore's prime.

For twenty-somethings, their world-view is bleak: "Anxiety sets in, slipping into darkness/Watching a downfall where nobody wins." In "Vigilance," their apocalypse yields a vigilante hero.

Out of this pessimism rises bruising, efficient songs that are surprisingly melodic.

The mid-paced "The Higher" is almost emotional, and provides a breather from the surrounding punishment.

The only chronological giveaway is the crisp, modern recording.

The bass tone is clear as a bell, and sits in a perfectly balanced mix.

Originality (or lack thereof) isn't a concern when the clarion call is this urgent.