Tag: metal

ALBUM REVIEW: EVILE

The Unknown 

Review Score: 7

Reviewed by: Billy Klare

UK thrasher’s Evile drop their sixth album “The Unknown” on Friday July 14, 2023 through Napalm Records. Evile are best known for their retro inspired thrash metal approach heavily influenced by the U.S. bay area thrash scene, especially Metallica. I’m a long-time fan and loved 2021’s “Hell Unleashed” album which was a full throttle thrash attack, easily their most vicious record to date. I expected something similar this time around but Evile had something else in mind with a shocking 180 degree turn.  

I was four songs into “The Unknown” when I stopped to make sure it was the same UK thrash band I’ve listened to for the past twelve years. Long-time Evile fans should prepare for a significant shift in musical direction. The blistering thrash metal attack of “Hell Unleashed” is almost entirely gone as Evile shift to a slower, heavier, groovier and more melodic song writing approach. 

Ol Drake delivers a very different vocal performance focusing on melodic clean singing leveraging a diverse range of emotions. The drums (Ben Carter) and bass (Joel Graham) have a dominate position in the mix helping drive the new heavier sound. The ferocious guitar solos of the past are replaced with slower emotive atmospheric guitar tones. The lyrical content is more mature covering topics about depression, personal loss, self-esteem and nightmares. 

The album opens with the title track “The Unknown”, a slow dark atmospheric song with surprisingly clean melodic vocals (and the first single). The pace picks up on “The Mask We Wear” following a similar style to Metallica’s “Sad But True”. “Monolith” is a dark trance inducing track emphasizing the use of backing vocals. A power ballad “When Mortal Coils Shed” comes next in the vein of Metallica’s “The Unforgiven” & “Nothing Else Matters”. Evile finally taps into their thrash roots with “Sleepless Eyes” & “Out Of Sight” but with a less aggressive and more melodic approach relative to “Hell Unleashed”. 

The tempo slows down once again on “At Mirror’s Speech”, another chugging heavy song reminiscent of later era Metallica but ends with a cool slow doom grind. The pace accelerates on “Reap What You Sow” and “Beginning Of The End” successfully combining heavy groove metal and clean melodic vocals (and lots of backing vocals). The album closes on a strong note with “Balance of Time” integrating the best components of the new sound and the older thrash style.  

Listening to “The Unknown” was an interesting musical journey for me, the album was completely unpredictable with countless surprises. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss the faster aggressive thrash side of Evile but I fully respect their decision to make a change. The new style won’t be for everyone and I definitely prefer the faster songs on the record. Evile always wore their musical influences on their sleeves and comparisons to Metallica’s “Black” album will be inevitable and fair in my opinion. Evile’s courageous musical change reminds me of another UK thrash band Xentrix and their “Kin” album released in 1992 which I only fully appreciated a decade later, perhaps “The Unknown” will follow a similar path for me. I suspect Evile will broaden their fan base and all metal fans should give this record a chance but the new style may be too much to absorb for die hard thrash fans.      

Standout Tracks – “Beginning Of The End”, “Balance Of Time”, “Sleepless Eyes” and “Out Of Sight”

Track Listing

  1. The Unknown
  2. The Mask We Wear
  3. Monolith
  4. When Mortal Coils Shed
  5. Sleepless Eyes
  6. Out Of Sight
  7. At Mirror’s Speech 
  8. Reap What You Sow
  9. Beginning Of The End
  10. Balance Of Time

Line-Up

Ol Drake – Vocals & Lead Guitar
Adam Smith – Rhythm Guitar
Joel Graham – Bass
Ben Carter – Drums

ALBUM REVIEW: BLACKNING

Awakening Rage

Reviewed by: Jim Harrison

Rating: 8.5

Blackning, a Brazilian thrash metal band that hail from Santo Andrè, São Paulo are releasing thier third album via Black Lion Records on July 28, 2023.  My first listen to this album blew me away and I had to do a review to get the word out that this is a “must listen” for thrash enthusiasts everywhere.  A brutal assault of heavy thrash that doesn’t give in and pounds the senses to the very last note.  The band consists of Clèber Orsioli vocalist/guitarist, Renan Pigmew drums, Richard Brigas bass/backing vocals and Zozi Fernando guitarist all talented musicians who have created such an individual, honest album.

The album has two instrumental tracks “Disfigured Trust” which sounds like it could have easily been on Slayer’s Seasons In the Abyss album and “Lex Talionis” that showcases a wicked drum beat. The first track “Violate” is one on my two favourite tracks and has a cool siren sound which sets the tone of the album that this will be a massive thrashing undertaking.  The early releases of songs “Greed and Lies”, “ Never to be Free” and “ Eye For An Eye” all were smart choice’s to wet the listener’s appetite for what this album is about without giving away too much prior to the release.  I love it when bands do that. “Lamb To the Slaughter “ is my second favourite track on this album which showcases Orsioli’s strong vocals and a fast pounding drum beat by Santos.  The guitar work by Fernando absolutely speeds this song along. “Insanity of Power” starts slower with a cool guitar riff and then explodes into some darker vocals.  “Vengeance Is Mine” is another massively sounding track that showcases how heavy this album is.  “Unnamed Reality” has a killer bass sound by Brigas, coupled with the pounding drums makes this track the heaviest on the album.  The vocals on this song are amazing.  The last track “Lies That Bind” has a fantastic drum beat that makes this song very melodic.  Orsiolis vocals again rip this track to shreds and really finishes the album off as heavy as it began. 

The album art was created by Björn Goobes/Killustrations which is superb and  awakens the rage of this album.

What I like about this band is they are consistent with the thrash movement, creating a unrelenting attack that doesn’t have any compromises and is an honest creation from start to finish. It has everything you want in a thrash album, speed, heavy, dark vocals, awesome musicianship and packs a punch. I strongly recommend this album. 

Cléber Orsioli:  Vocals /guitars 
Renan Pigmew:   Drums
Richard Brigas:  Bass/backing vocals 
Zozi Fernando:  Guitars 

https://www.facebook.com/blackning

Check out other 2023 Metal Pit album reviews

ALBUM REVIEW: EXTREME

Six

Review by: Marsworth

Rating: 7.5

June 9, 2023 was a huge day for hair metal fans around the globe as it was the release of EXTREME’s newest record entitled ‘SIX’ which is, believe it or not, their sixth studio album. Even with having released two singles back in April of this year, “Banshee” and “#REBEL”, the record still nicked the top of the charts in several countries. Alongside earMUSIC records, the multi-platinum rockers have hit #2 on the rock charts in both the UK and the USA. Fans have been raving about the sound and mix of the record being just as, perhaps better than, the band’s infamous 1990 release ‘Extreme II: Pornograffitti’ making it worth the nearly 20 year wait for a new release! Each and every member of EXTREME are ready to grab us by the hand and show us the “Other Side Of the Rainbow”.

EXTREME  is:

Gary Cherone – vocals
Nuno Bettencourt – guitar
Pat Badger – bass
Kevin Figueiredo – drums

As previously mentioned, there are elements of ‘Pornograffiti’ and even ‘III Sides to Every Story’ filling the covers of every cut that the band serves up. The agelessness of Cherone’s voice echoes throughout every track overtop of every thunderous bassline given to us by Badger intertwined with Figueiredo’s solid foundation. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all unicorns and butterflies, some songs seem slightly basic for the band as it doesn’t hold the same funk as earlier records. Although, the kick of “Beautiful Girls” could win over the hearts of many that previously haven’t heard of EXTREME. The positives definitely outweigh the negatives on this record as we see nods to Van Halen, absolutely angelic harmonies, and totally stellar songwriting. The groove of “Banshee” makes something in me switch on as Bettencourt plays like a beast waiting to be unleashed. It’s about time that there be a rock record that’s actually worth the wait of the long time listeners. The least we can say as fans: Welcome back, Extreme!

TRACK LIST:

  1. RISE
  2. #REBEL
  3. BANSHEE
  4. OTHER SIDE OF THE RAINBOW
  5. SMALL TOWN BEAUTIFUL
  6. THE MASK
  7. THICKER THAN BLOOD
  8. SAVE ME
  9. HURRICANE
  10. X OUT
  11. BEAUTIFUL GIRLS
  12. HERE’S TO THE LOSERS

ALBUM REVIEW: POWER TRIP

Live in Seattle 05.28.2018  

Review Score: 10

Reviewed by: Billy Klare 

Power Trip released a new live album “Live in Seattle – 05.28.2018” on June 23, 2023 through Southern Lord Records. As the name suggests, it’s a 2018 live performance recorded in Seattle at a time when Power Trip was in absolute peak form and arguably the best modern thrash band on the scene. Earlier versions of this show are out there in different forms but this is the perfect opportunity to get your copy on CD, vinyl and streaming platforms if you previously missed out as I did. According to the band website, the new 2023 streaming version was remastered.      

I’m sure most are familiar with Power Trip but I wanted to start with a brief history of the band for any newbies. Power Trip are from the U.S. state of Texas and specialize in old school crossover thrash metal (with their own unique twist). The band delivered two incredibly successful albums, Manifest Decimation (2013) & Nightmare Logic (2017) and built a strong reputation for their lethal live performances. Sadly, it all ended August 24, 2020 with the untimely death of their charismatic lead singer Riley Gale. It’s still unclear if the remaining band members will continue on with the Power Trip name but it will never be the same without Riley.  

I vividly remember the first time I discovered Power Trip and Riley Gale. It was November 30, 2017 at the Theater of Living Arts in Philadelphia opening for Cannibal Corpse and I had no idea who they were. They commanded my attention immediately and I instantly loved their 80’s inspired blend of thrash, punk and hardcore (i.e. crossover thrash). However, there was something extra special about Riley that caught my eye. He was the perfect energetic frontman leaping off speaker cabinets & the drum riser and performing high jump-kicks in the air from his standing position at the mike. I immediately ordered both albums that evening after the show.    

Now on to the album. It’s relatively brief at approximately 40 minutes in length but largely includes the best of the Power Trip discography (roughly 50% of the setlist from each album). The recording perfectly captures the raw intensity and fury of the legendary Power Trip concerts as I remembered them. The insanely catchy hook laden guitar riffs work so well live, I can only imagine the massive Seattle mosh pit that night. Riley’s in excellent form as well, his aggressive raspy vocal delivery commanding the stage and audience. Ferocious guitar solos and punching drums further fuel the intensity level. Tracks like “Executioner’s Tax”, “Crucifixation” and “Soul Sacrifice” made me want to start my own personal mosh pit right in the middle of my living room. The band is so tight, their live chops perfected over years of touring.     

I love the inclusion of Riley’s vocal interaction with the audience, a true blessing given his early passing. Riley uniquely sets the stage for an imminent guitar solo at one point by yelling “1,2,3 – GO” before the shredding begins. Another time he shouts “Take that Seattle” with an evil tone after a particularly brutal component of the song. As Power Trip enter the final songs of the show, Riley thanks the audience for a great night, tells them to take care of each other and then insists everyone “fall in line” and bang their ****ing heads. His on stage banter is genuine, appreciative and perfectly timed. Ironically, prior to playing the track “Firing Squad”, Riley dedicates the song to all friends that passed away.    

The sound quality is fantastic, probably the best live thrash metal recording in my collection. Everything is crystal clear and fully mimics the true live show experience. A full-on metal assault to the ears. The vinyl release is extra special including a beautiful 12 page black-and-white photography booklet filled with awesome band live action shots. The Riley pics are worth the price of admission alone. I should also mention the vinyl is incredibly well priced at about $20 US & $28 CAD.    

As you could probably tell, I love this “Live in Seattle” masterpiece. It’s outstanding from a song selection perspective and it’s ability to perfectly capture the Power Trip live performance. A rare perfect 10/10 rating. I feel like I’m standing in that Seattle audience every time I play it (and I can’t stop playing it). It’s everything I love about a thrash metal concert – controlled aggression and neck snapping good fun. But more importantly, this recording stands as the perfect tribute to the life and music of Riley Gale. RIP Riley Gale.   

I wanted to end this review by sharing a relevant memory from a recent Frozen Soul concert I attended (Death metal band also from Texas and friends of Power Trip). Frozen Soul lead singer Chad Green stopped performing mid-show that night and suddenly discussed the pain he’s experienced with the passing of his long-time friends Riley Gale (Power Trip) and Trevor Strnad (The Black Dahlia Murder). He pleaded with the audience to watch over friends & family and be alert for any potential signs of mental health and / or addiction symptoms. He encouraged the audience to step in and help before it’s too late. It was a powerful moment that made the hairs on the back of neck stand on end. A message we can all apply to our own life and within the broader metal community.   

Track Listing

  1. Drown (Intro)
  2. Divine Apprehension 
  3. Suffer No Fool
  4. Soul Sacrifice
  5. Executioner’s Tax 
  6. Crucifixation 
  7. Heretic’s Fork
  8. Conditioned to Death
  9. Firing Squad
  10. Manifest Decimation 
  11. Crossbreaker

Line-Up

Riley Gale – Lead Vocals
Blake Ibanez – Lead Guitar
Nick Stewart – Rhythm Guitar 
Chris Whetzel – Bass
Chris Ulsh – Drums  

ALBUM REVIEW: DEITUS

Irreversible 

Album Rating: 9

Reviewed by: Jim Harrison

Metal fans everywhere will have to mark their calendars for July 14, 2023 for the highly anticipated release of London, UK based band, Deitus who is set to release their new album Irreversible via Spinefarm/Candlelight Records.  This is their third album following their 2018 release Via Deloroso and 2016 Acta Non Verba. This band is known for their rabid live performances pushing the boundaries of their dark artistry.  Their sound can be described as a mix of doom, death and melodic metal but it really is a metal soundscape matching strong, dark vocals with superior musicianship. This  album is more of an “experience”, leading, not following musical expectations and trends.

The album is just over thirty nine minutes with six songs and starts with the instrumental track “Incursion” that leads off eerily slow and than picks up preparing you for the onslaught that is about to begin.  This heads into “Straight For Your Throat” which grabs a hold of it and doesn’t let go. Being the longest track on the album just over sixteen minutes, normally you would be  thinking that’s long but when you hear this it feels like a typical song length of three to five minutes.  The low vocals really bring a sense of the horror awaiting, showcasing  the strong guitar work and pounding drum beat. There is a great melodic sound throughout it pushing a tribal feel.  The next track “A Scar of Serenity” is one of my two favourite songs on this album. This is a heavy pounding song and is super fast. I love the repeated lyric “Let Me In”.  This song is catchy and I find myself humming it afterwards. This will be a great track live with huge audience participation, it also has a thrash feel to it in parts. The title track “Irreversible ” is next which pushes great vocals and a massive drum beat that sends this song into flight.  My other favourite track “Voyeur “ and this track is fantastic. This actually could be one of my favourite songs of 2023, I like it that much.  Guest vocalist Toni Coe-Brooker has an amazing voice that just makes this so dramatic and dreamy.  This song is about the terror of sleep paralysis and the video is a work of art. Coe-Brooker did all the underwater scenes herself which is impressive. This is the first time Deitus has done a collaboration and it’s a home run. The last track on the album “As Long as They Fear” has a blackened trash vibe to it and positively book ends this album on a high. This is a great song and the catchy guitar riffs make this another song that would be awesome live.

The albums artwork by Santiago Caruso is totally captivating, adding to the extreme expectations. 

This whole album is superb, really showcasing a sound experience or even being genre defining.  I love the rawness of this album and like the longer songs versus many songs, it makes it special.  The track “Voyeur“ will bring more attention to this album propelling exposure to metal fans not only in Europe but all over the world.  The video runs parallel to the song and is perfect giving that visualization to tell the story.

I recommend this album to fans looking for a deeper metal experience. 

Track Listing

01. Incursion 
02. Straight For Your Throat
03. A Scar For Serenity 
04. Irreversible 
05. Voyeur (feat. Toni Coe-Brooker)
06. As Long as They Fear