Rough Edge: Destruction CD Reviews

DESTRUCTION

"Thrash Anthems" (Candlelight; 2007)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Rather than re-master their previous efforts, Destruction made the call to re-record all of its most infamous metal cuts. "Thrash Anthems" is the end result, a 15-track meat-and-potatoes thrash album that displays this German trio's attention to precision and undeniable technical skill.

Often revered as one of the pioneering acts in the thrash metal movement, Destruction's legacy is sonically upgraded in fine form thanks to the spirited effort put forth on "Thrash Anthems."

For more information visit http://www.destruction.de.

"Inventor of Evil" (Candlelight; 2005)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Destruction's sound hasn't changed very much over the years, yet no one really gives a damn, especially the German band's most ardent supporters. This indestructible beast continues to churn out some of the finest molten slabs of metallic thrash glory this side of Kreator and Exodus.

"Inventor of Evil" finds the thrash pioneers returning in fine form, and while some parts may be deemed dated or feel like the trio is trying too hard, there aren't many other bands whose riffs still illicit the same power as "No Man's Land" or get the pit moving like "The Chosen Ones."

Even going so far as to bridge the gap between schools of metal with "Alliance of Hellhoundz" by enlisting some of today's metal greats from bands such as Soilwork and Dimmu Borgir to scream their asses off, some may argue that Destruction is desperately grasping for straws to rekindle audience's affection. Cynics be damned, because this band still has a lot of gas left in the tank and can still present a thrashing groove like "Seeds of Hate" with the conviction of any other band on the planet.

Put them in the pile with AC/DC, Motorhead, and a select few bands that are known more for their immortal durability than their elements of surprise.

For more information visit http://www.destruction.de.

"All Hell Breaks Loose" (Nuclear Blast; 2000)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Destruction, thrash legends hailing from Germany, have plied their trade for a couple of decades now and have provided the metal starved with twelve tracks of crippling thrash - thrash of the old-school order.

With bassist/vocalist Mark Schirmer back in the band, Destruction have recaptured the intensity of their early days. The very powerful trio detonates everything in sight and leaves no corner unturned in the hope of re-arranging your perceptions of what thrash might mean in the new millennium.

Wretched, mischievous, relentless, and very tight - there are only a few of the words that I can think of that describe the power and ferocity of the breakneck riffing and machine gun rhythms. Destruction's songs lack the epic feel that most thrash bands are known for - all but one of the songs are under the four and half minute barrier. Personally, I found the music to be too consistent within their own style, but then again these metal legends have honed their craft over many years so who am I to judge?

The lyrics deal with standard thrash subject matter (pain, death, and um, well ... destruction). The lyrics are given a modern update as songs like "Visual Prostitution" and "Machinery Of Lies" deal with the invasive reach of technology and it's obliteration of the human spirit.

What's interesting is that Destruction were always considered Germany's answer to Metallica. It's surprising then that the hidden track of Metallica's "Whiplash" is included here; the Destruction-ized version of "Whiplash" finishes the CD in classic thrash fashion.

Fans of Sodom and Kreator will like Destruction.

"All Hell Breaks Loose" was produced by Peter Tagtgren (Hypocrisy, Lock Up) and Destruction.

Destruction is Schimer on bass and vocals, Sven Vorman on drums, and Mike Sifringer on guitar.

For more information visit http://www.destruction.de.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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