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Written by ee
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Tuesday, 22 July 2008 |
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Los Angeles, California outfit, Warbringer is part of the new wave of thrash metal that is sweeping across the globe. This young act first skateboarded onto the scene in 2004, around the same time genre-leaders Municipal Waste formed. The group self-released two demos and the "One by One, the Wicked Fall" EP, which eventually caught the eye of Century Media, therefore leading to their first full-length release, "War Without End."
These thrasher's first label release is an exceptional thrash/crossover release. Like their name suggests, each song tackles a particular aspect of war, which is a topic that never seems stale considering America's ongoing endeavors into one of the most controversial wars in the country's history. Although there is a remnant of reality in the lyrics, many of the songs feature Science Fiction and Horror movie concepts. The very-real scenario of "Born of the Ruins" illustrates ruinous settings brought on after the hand stuck midnight, while "Hell on Earth" paints an apocalyptic picture of more fantastic means - Zombie Holocaust. The lyrics to "Instruments of Torture" seem straight out of the satanic verses of Slayer's "Hell Awaits.
The group's music works closely in mimicking the destructive details of each combat-driven lyric. Adam Carroll and John Laux seemingly tuned their guitars to the quick, flashing imagery presented in their stories. In "Total War," drummer Ryan Bates takes command of the drums with a pounding, multi-rhythm solo that is akin to two charging armies. Chaotic, ripping guitar solos may signify the onset of violence when these two battle-hungry forces collide. Solo instrumentation is a major facet of this album. Each musician shows his capability in drum and guitar shredding.
John Kevil displays hardcore vocal traits that may bring to mind Tony of Municipal Waste, as does some of the crossover-patterned music they play. However, Warbringer exhibits more thrash in the vein of popular pioneering acts such as Megadeth and Metallica. Kevil also attains grating, throaty screams that would make Millie of Kreator proud. Kevil even summons the sick spirit of Obituary growler, John Tardy with his verse-line-ending growls.
Although bands from the new thrash fold may all seek inspiration from the same, glorious period, each group has its own distinct sound. Warbringer is no different. Some despise this new trend, while others have fully embraced it. Warbringer seems to be doing ok. 2008 is proving to be their year. They have a video on the Headbanger's Ball ("Combat Shock"), a high-profile tour with thrash legends Exodus in the U.S., an upcoming tour with Nile planned, and a featured track on "Thrashing like a Maniac" compilation ("Total War."). Expect this group to break out in a major way in the ensuing years.
Darren Cowan |
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