Heretic-A Time Of Crisis

Metal On Metal Records
2012

Cult speed metal/thrash act Heretic sure took their sweet time in reforming. For a band that made their debut on 1986's Metal Massacre VII ( before releasing the 1986 EP "Torture Knows No Boundary" and the 1988 LP "Breaking Point"-both released on Metal Blade Records) it sure seems as if a lot has changed since their last LP. Somehow though this LA band seems to have picked right up where they left off. Featuring original band members Brian Korban (guitar) and Julian Mendez (vocals-Julian appeared on the group's debut EP, but was replaced by Mike Howe for the "Breaking Point" LP) the band has been joined by renowned guitarist Glenn Rogers (ex-Hirax, ex-Deliverance, ex-Steel Vengeance,etc.), bassist Angelo Espino (Bitch, ex-Reverend, ex-Hirax, ex-Anger As Art, ex-Uncle Slam,etc.) and drummerIgnazio Coppola. With the following track list in tow (see right below) the band pulverizes their way through this album:
1. The Divine Inquisition
2. Tomorrow’s Plague
3. Betrayed
4. Remains
5. A Time Of Crisis
6. For Your Faith
7. Raise Your Fist
8. Heretic
9. Child Of War
10. Police State
11. The End Of The World
12. Let Me Begin Again

Now, this is not trendy modern thrash or even retro sounding thrash. Rather, "A Time Of Crisis" sounds like a band that has simply evolved with the changing landscape of thrash while still retaining their root vision. And yes, quite honestly, it does sound as if the band just picked right up where they left off. Heretic offer an album that no-frills and yet full of tasty licks and soaring leads. It's heavy, crunchy and offers just enough of punch in the gut to wake you out of your slumber while still reminding you why you love speed/thrash to start with. Welcome back guys. Here's hoping this is just the start of many great things to come!