EXODIA
Hellbringer
(self-financed)
47:17min

It’s no big secret that the scene in Spain is more vital than ever before. Countless hordes in all genres and all corners from the entire country emerge from the underground in order to indulge in the music they enjoy most. Many of these acts have great potential and EXODIA being one of them. Sure it is quite difficult these days to come up with new ideas or trying to re-invent the wheel (which is impossible) but that’s also neither the point here nor is it neccessary. As long as you have the basic ingredients (and spice it with some own identity) with the right attitude and passion – then it’s fine with me. The Valencia based outfit carries the flag of Thrash Metal with proud and has recently released their second album on their own (the debut "Slow Death" saw the light of day in 2012). They are full blooded Thrashers who scream out and release their anger in form of ten hellish tracks. And what shall I tell you? They totally kick ass on this ten tracker called "Hellbringer". The title can’t be chosen any better as the band indeed has gathered some infernal violent and quite intense tunes on their disc. Technically the Spaniards are above average and so it is no big surprise that the execution of the songs turned out more than just convincing. Despite having a lot of aggression EXODIA comes up not only once with some excellent melodic leads and harmonies (e.g. ‘Anesthetics’ or ‘Train Of Death’) and the use of some superb gangshouts adds further catchiness to their compositions. Another fact that I really enjoy is that the five piece has a lot of speed and power to offer and for sure they kick some similiar acts into the gutter. Just have a listen to the insane ‘Infected Hate’ or ‘150% Attitude’. Both are great examples for high speed Thrashers par excellence, played with great skills, a lot of aggression, razor blade sharp riffing and incredible drumming. For the sake of variety the band incorporates always some heavy, crushing mid paced parts as well to raise the intensity. As far as the production is concerned, the album is very well produced. It’s raw, it’s heavy, it’s crispy, it’s dynamic – simply said it’s excellent! And the cool cover art work tops this killer off. "Hellbringer" should appeal to every headbanger out there being into relentless Thrash Metal with class. Just check out the aforementioned tracks or the totally EXODUS infected ‘The Town Of No Return’ (a kind of homage to these Bay Area gods by using a ‘A Lesson In Violence’ riff). Interested Metalheads should get in touch with them at www.facebook.com/metalexodia for further details.

Michael Oelschlegel

Michael Oelschlegel

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