Massacra
Final Holocaust

Let's make it clear right away, this record is a masterpiece of old school thrash\death from the old guard.

The year is 1990 and the French band Massacra releases their first album "Final Holocaust" for the German label Shark Records. A seminal work characterized by sharp and inspired riffing, based on neoclassical guitar melodies that make the result even more unique and violent. The two guitarists, Fred Duval and Jean Marc Tristani, show great creativity delivering furious hooks and blistering solos.
Outstanding is the performance of bassist/vocalist Pascal Jorgensen, always present in the backbone of the songs with his overwhelming style. Drummer Chris Palengat hits like a maniac behind the drums, delivering bewildering and surprising speed-ups.

The songs that make up this album are all very engaging and original, starting with the blazing opener "Apocalyptic Warriors". The second track "Researchers Of Tortures" is also stunning, followed by the powerful "Sentenced For Life" and "War Of Attrition". "Trained To Kill" is pleasantly listenable in all its fury, as is the extraordinary "Nearer To Death", a classic that every metalhead should listen to at least once. The title track "Final Holocaust" is another song of great quality, characterized by superb riffing. The album closes with "Eternal Hate", the violent "The Day Of Massacra" and the surprising "Beyond The Prophecy".

A record that absolutely must be listened to in all its fury, fun and engaging, guaranteed headbanging. With subsequent listens, giving it more attention, several unexpected touches of class can also be grasped. Another underground gem never emerged due to poor publicity, do not make the mistake of dismissing it based on hearsay, this is truly a jewel set in the dark world of metal.