Suicidal Angels-Sanctify the darkness

Nuclear Blast
2010

Greek band Suicidal Angels sophomore album took me a few plays to figure out what I really thought of. Retro thrash bands seem to be emerging from everywhere these days. Like any other movement their are bands who are on the top of the scene and bottom of the barrel acts. Suicidal Angels may not be totally in either group, but after five plays I came to the conclusion that they fall closer to the top group. This is real, gritty thrash that draws deeply upon the likes of Slayer, Sodom, Destruction and Death. They rely on chugging guitars, barking vocals and a pounding rhythm section. The music isn't particularly innovative, but it is fairly memorable. Despite making their influences very obvious this band still manages to begin carving their own sound adding some rapid fire grooves into the mix. They seem to have a greater focus to mixing in tempo changes and melodies as opposed to just sticking to pure speed. I think that decision greatly helps their cause and they are well on their way to forming their own sound while complimenting their influences. All in all a strong effort.