In League with Satan

Rarely do I give any form of compilation any kind of notice as most are simply marketing gimmicks by record companies to gain an extra buck out of the passing fan. This double CD set from Venom though, contains many rare songs, alternate versions of fun variations to justify it's existence. The artwork contains many great photos, an article, and good attention to details that many Venom compilations lack showing that someone actually CARED about this project. (Thankfully they avoided including terrible tracks like "Shit Snot" and "Bitch Witch" as well.) This is a perfect cross-section for anyone who wants to try Venom...or wants a few rare songs to drag into the collection.

The key inclusions on this record are a wonderful live recording of "Countess Bathory", the usual 'hits' like "Die Hard" and "Ride Ride" along with odds and ends that many may have overlooked over the bands career like the pounding "Dead of Night" and the hilarious "Woman". The production varies per track of course, but the band deliver their caustic poison again and again with little attention to musical concentration - only over the top violence and attitude. Bonus points for the ultra-heavy rendition of "Buried Alive" as well!

Venom were a band that makes little sense, but rock beyond words all the same. Probably the worst metal musicians on earth, they crafted perfect hooks and made more "fun" music (in the most aggressive and violent sense) than any band before them.

Venom are just that...some of us simply like the poison.

http://www.venomslegions.com