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THE REVIEW
In the fateful cauldron of speed/thrash bands that trained to play faster and faster and mostly forgot about melody, where every phrase of the "sought-after lyrics" was an act of accusation against every non-metalhead, the Suicidal Tendencies of Mike Muir, a singer with a unique timbre capable of interpretations outside the canons imposed by the aforementioned Metal scene (mind you, I hold no negative regard for metal, of which I have been and still am a huge consumer), forcefully carved out the space they desired. They were previously the authors of a celebrated self-titled debut (1983) explosive Hardcore, already flaunting astonishing technical and compositional structures, such as the Rap vocals and melodic bass lines as well as inspired guitar solos, a thing not well received in the Old School HC environment. This was followed by an infinitely splendid and seminal album for the future of crossover, be it new and funk or metal, answering to the name of "Join The Army" (1987). Our Cycos approached the gates of 1988 with absolutely fantastic tracks, a bone-crushing sound producer (Mark Dodson, who greatly contributed to the success of Anthrax releases), and an impeccable lineup with the entry of Mike Clark, a rhythmic guitarist and genuine riff-wrecking machine.
The album opens with the fast and compact "Trip at the Brain", a humorous and rather violent critique of American Intelligence that made Muir's life impossible for four years. Supported by tight rhythms, the track is a continuous stop'n'go of tempo changes and chilling melodic solos (thanks to the immense talent of Rocky George), it continues with "Hearing Voices", a mid-tempo with a monumental riff and a highly engaging chorus, not a moment's pause as we move to the complex and magnificent "Pledge Your Allegiance", an authentic sound manifesto of Muir's band, a true musical architecture where feeling and power cascade in the melody of the solos... At this point, we encounter what I consider one of Muir's most beautiful compositions, "How Will I Laugh Tomorrow", which gave the band its first mainstream success and revealed to the world the fervent compositional and interpretative talent of the great singer. "The Miracle", a harmonic and melodic intro where a bone-crushing rhythm breaks in, displaying the full attitude of the five Cycos who find the most imaginative in the rhythm section that could be found in such an exhilarating musical context (credit to the great drummer R.J. Herrera and the truly exceptional guest musician Bob Heathcote), "Surf And Slam", an instrumental where Rocky George's talent forcefully comes to the fore, "If I Don't Wake Up", a relentless grinder punctuated by powerful time signatures and tasteful melodic breaks, and finally the final triptych "Sorry?! One Too Many Times and The Feeling's Back", compositions more akin to the HC period that unite power and a great sense of melody, with exemplary performances by Muir.
Ultimately a MUST too often forgotten and too little known that undoubtedly deserves its place in the hall of every lover of great emotions.
Having said that, I bid you farewell until next time...
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Summary by Bot
This review praises Suicidal Tendencies' 1988 album for its unique blend of hardcore, thrash, and melody, highlighting standout tracks and the impressive musicianship of the band. The author emphasizes the album's innovation within the metal scene and its enduring emotional power. Mike Muir's vocal delivery and compositional skills receive special acclaim, as does the overall production quality. Ultimately, the album is deemed an essential piece for lovers of powerful and emotive music.
Suicidal Tendencies
American crossover thrash band formed in 1980 in Venice, Los Angeles, led by vocalist Mike Muir. They fused hardcore punk and thrash metal, later adding funk elements, and became a cult act across the 80s and 90s.10 Reviews
