The Decline

 The gloomy and spectral atmospheres that represent King Diamond's trademark are splendidly recreated.

 A true training in Heavy Metal, capable of refreshing the abundance of the past without making us live on lonely and pathetic nostalgic reminiscences.

King Diamond returns with Abigail II: The Revenge, a strong follow-up to his classic album Abigail. The album maintains the signature dark, horror-inspired atmosphere while delivering powerful guitar work and impressive vocals. Unlike many sequels, it honors its predecessor without feeling like a cash grab. Fans of traditional Heavy Metal will appreciate the energy and craftsmanship displayed throughout the thirteen tracks. Dive into King Diamond's Abigail II: The Revenge and experience one of Heavy Metal's finest works today.

 Disfear do not have the ambition to be imaginative or showcase their technical skills, what matters in this work is the consistency of the sound walls and the solidity of the compositions.

 With 'Misanthropic Generation' they simply wanted to send a huge and spontaneous f*** you to the world.

Disfear's 'Misanthropic Generation' channels raw hardcore energy fueled by Tomas Lindberg's fierce and nihilistic vocals. With influences from Motorhead and Discharge, the album delivers short, aggressive tracks packed with relentless riffs and a powerful rhythm section. The album emphasizes consistency over technical flair, crafting a rebellious, unapologetic statement that refuses to compromise. It’s a visceral expression of rage and misanthropy that hardcore punk fans will appreciate. Explore the fierce energy of Disfear's ‘Misanthropic Generation’ and immerse yourself in their uncompromising hardcore fury now!

 Michael Coons' shrill, high-pitched voice often clashes with the robust sound of the band, coming across as annoying and out of place.

 Laaz Rockit might have rivaled thrash legends had they chosen a more fitting singer after mid-career.

Laaz Rockit's 1991 album Nothing$ $acred is a solid thrash metal record showcasing intricate guitar solos and strong rhythm sections. While the vocals are often criticized for clashing with the music, standout tracks and production make it an engaging listen. The album reflects Bay Area thrash influences and was reissued in 2009 with bonus tracks. Recommended with some reservation. Discover the layered thrash metal power of Laaz Rockit's Nothing$ $acred—listen now and explore its dynamic riffs and bold vocals.

 Manic Impressions must be listened to, inhaled, and sublimated multiple times.

 Kenni Nardi’s voice amazes more than anything else, creating a sensation of disorientation mixed with wonder that is truly unique.

Anacrusis' 1991 album, Manic Impressions, marks a bold evolution into Technical Thrash Metal, combining sharp guitar tones, psychedelic bass, and unique vocals. The record balances primal fury with heartfelt melancholy, addressing themes of rebellion and societal disillusionment. Praised for its distinct sound and the band's refusal to conform, the album demands attentive and repeated listening. It stands as an underrated, authentic metal milestone. Dive into Anacrusis' Manic Impressions and experience a unique Technical Thrash journey unlike any other!

 Forbidden, a historic name of the second wave, hooks onto the bandwagon of resounding reunions and... launches their counterattack: 'Omega Wave'.

 Omega Wave, while not forcibly anachronistic... also doesn’t seem to want to take risks, remaining too ceremonious and in rather ordinary areas to be considered excellent.

Forbidden's 2008 album Omega Wave delivers a competent thrash metal comeback, showcasing strong individual skills and compositional clarity. While some tracks impress with energy and complexity, the album is held back by weaker choruses and conservative choices. Fans will appreciate the return of classic elements, though the album lacks unforgettable highlights. Overall, Omega Wave feels like a respectful but cautious step forward for the band. Discover Forbidden's Omega Wave and experience a classic thrash metal comeback with a modern twist—listen now and judge for yourself!

 Dawn’s voice is the band’s most significant peculiarity, dragging everyone else along with her murderous screams.

 "Recognize No Authority" remains a record that I recommend to all thrashers who do not disdain certain Punk/Hardcore-leaning sounds.

Detente's 1986 album Recognize No Authority is a raw, direct thrash metal record featuring the distinctive vocals of Dawn Crosby. The band combines thrash riffs with punk and hardcore elements, addressing social issues of the time. While some consider it a pivotal but overlooked album, others see it as derivative. Recommended for fans of thrash who enjoy a blend of aggressive styles. Listen to Detente's fierce Recognize No Authority and rediscover a raw thrash metal gem.

 Absolute Power represents one of the most astute testimonials of how class and virtuosity could be fused with raw, unadorned execution speed.

 If I were asked to recommend 10 'second-tier' American Thrash Metal albums, I wouldn’t hesitate to include this now dusty Absolute Power in the blacklist.

Powermad's sole full-length album Absolute Power is a cult classic in thrash metal, showcasing a unique blend of raw speed, technical prowess, and melody. Released in 1989 by Combat Records, it remains a testament to their style despite the band's brief career. The album offers standout tracks such as 'Slaughterhouse,' 'Test The Steel,' and 'B.N.R.' with captivating production and vocals. Recommended for fans of vintage American thrash seeking powerful and innovative metal. Dive into Powermad's Absolute Power and experience a thrilling journey through classic American thrash metal!

 John Cyriis: a singer endowed with an immeasurable voice, capable of reaching extremely high notes (practically ultrasounds).

 The album's brazen compactness and consistency make it, along with Unstoppable Force, a timeless classic.

Agent Steel's 1985 album Skeptics Apocalypse is hailed as a landmark speed/thrash metal record. John Cyriis' unique high-pitched vocals and relentless speed define the band's sound. The album delivers intense riffs and powerful rhythms across eight tracks, despite its raw production. Considered a timeless classic, it remains a must-listen for fans of the genre. Dive into the relentless speed and soaring vocals of Skeptics Apocalypse—listen now and experience a speed metal legend!

 A new breeze seems to be blowing in the Strato house, as indicated by the renewed desire to amaze the public and themselves and experiment with unusual solutions.

 The magnificent, daring, and endless (18 minutes) closing title-track... compulsorily requires numerous listens to be fully understood and appreciated.

Stratovarius' Elysium marks a noticeable improvement from their previous works, blending fresh ideas with their classic power metal roots. Despite some filler tracks, the album offers memorable compositions and promising contributions from new members. The 18-minute title track stands out as a progressive suite demanding multiple listens. Overall, Elysium shows hope for the band's future, balancing legacy and experimentation. Explore Stratovarius' Elysium now and experience a fresh take on power metal's legacy.

 "Brain Damage emerges from the anonymous Thrash as an undisputed winner."

 "If you’re a fan of the vintage Bay-Area sound, this is certainly an indispensable (and underrated) tool of devastation."

Vendetta's album Brain Damage is a standout in the 80s German thrash scene, blending technical skill with intellectual lyrics. The album pushes thrash boundaries with melodic and progressive influences. It addresses themes of violence and communication with a mature perspective. With strong bass work and complex compositions, it remains an underrated classic. Listen to Vendetta's Brain Damage and experience a powerful blend of technical thrash and intellectual metal storytelling.