Thrash Anthems by Destruction
|
Release date : January 2007
Reviewed by Anthony Morgan
Background information
Review
Background information
An album with such a confident, ill conceived title as Thrash Anthems would usually meet a lukewarm reception, though this effort is certainly an exception to the rule. Like Ronseal, it does what it says on the tin. Perfect, simple and modest - in short, the name says it all. With fellow countrymen Sodom and Kreator, Destruction were part of the main three of Teutonic Thrash Metal. Fast forward two decades, and what you virtually have is a best of compilation in some respects. Thirteen tracks culled from a six year period between 1984 to 1990 have undergone modern reinterpretation for the 21st century, adapted by way of re-recording. “Cracked Brain” from the 1990 album of the same name never had the benefit of vocalist Marcel “Schmier" Schirmer on vocals, a fact rewritten here. Two new, freshly written tracks are thrown into the mix for good measure, namely “Profanity” and “Destruction (Your Heads Will Roll)”. Danish producer Jacob Hansen helms the mix.
Review
The blistering solos of guitarist Mike Sifringer charge forward like a thousand lightning bolts, brilliantly shimmering during several tracks. These curt, barnstorming excursions fail to outstay their welcome, rousing licks which race along with a menacing snarl. Sometimes less is more, and that's the classic parable displayed to perfection here. A whole abundance of lightning fret work would quickly descend into self-parody, a monotonous fraught run through of recycled riffs. Ears would fall asleep as a result, whereas here they're keenly peeled wide and open. The two fresh numbers fare extremely great when pitted against their more established counterparts, verifying that there is bountiful life in the old hound yet.
If you counted all the great Thrash Metal groups via the fingers of your palms, the key to their success all relates back to that one common denominator; a seductive, captivating riff. Each respective track contains just that, and justifiably so. Destruction's vibrant engine defiantly roars immediately within the opening seconds, alluringly waving its little finger in an open invitation. This exclusive offer promises to enchant you into a captivating world arguably lost in some respects, confined to cherished LPs and fond memories.
Destruction belong to a generation of artists that simply aren't bred nowadays, a unique product of their respective environment. Scores of copycat groups may have numbed the senses towards this specific discipline, though back in its heyday this music was deemed rather innovative. A golden age that spawned a plethora of quality acts, this is magic that modern day outfits are trying so hard to capture. Veteran music lovers with an avid interest in Thrash Metal should consider this an essential purchase, and any Thrash Metal collection devoid of this record is incomplete to say the least. Students of the subgenre should get their felt tip out of the drawer and start scribbling notes.
