Exodus
Tempo Of The Damned

THE REVIEW

In the Bay Area, many groups that once made thrash history have taken up arms again to resume their deadly mission. Among them are the legendary "Exodus" who, in the past, wrote memorable chapters of metal such as "Bonded By Blood" and "Pleasur To Flesh". Their last album, which dates back seven years ago, "Face Of Habit," was disappointing, leaving a bitter taste in many fans' mouths. Now, however, they are back and rather pissed off. The album is dedicated to the old vocalist Paul Baloff, with whom they recorded the first two masterpieces, who sadly passed away due to a car accident. The singer suffered severe brain damage following a heart attack; after a discussion between his only relative and the doctors, it was decided to disconnect the life support machine. You will always remain in our hearts, Paul... The album was released on the anniversary of the singer's death. Exodus began composing after overcoming the endless drug-related issues that had completely destroyed them. The line-up consists of the devastating duo Holt/Hunolt on guitars, performing their duties divinely, always making the listening pleasant. Behind the drums, we find Tom Haunting, an excellent drummer, and on the bass is Jack Jibson. On vocals, there is Steve Souza, who appears very inspired with a powerful and gritty voice, in great shape.

The album kicks off with "Scar Spangled Banner," which criticizes America by calling it violent and indifferent. The second track "War Is My Shepherd" can simply be defined as a masterpiece from a band that has always been consistent and still manages to reserve us such a work today. The album continues with excellent songs such as "Blacklist," "Forward March," and "Culling The Herd." We then reach "Sealed With A Fist" and the magnificent "Throwing Down," which were written by Holt and Miller when they were part of "War Dance." "Impaler," a true gem of the album, was written at the dawn of Exodus' career when Kirk Hammett was also a member. The masterpiece concludes with the perfectly fitting and fierce title track.

Trivia:

- The album's recording was thanks to Andy Sneap, who had so much faith in the composed material that he financed the recording without the band having a contract with a record label. To the band, Andy has always been like a brother.

- On the CD cover, an organist was placed, and Gary states:

Ahahah... it’s just a way to represent our show, a sort of evil identity that through its instrument manipulates the crowd, a bit like what happened in the tale of the Pied Piper... in this case, we are the ones enchanting the audience with irresistible music ahahah!!!