Inner Trauma

Andralls' classic take on thrash is at the same time commendable that they actually manage to replicate the whole being of a killer 80s thrash opus, but limiting in their reticence to bring any new ideas into the mould. Very simply, this sounds very much like any classic Sepultura album, and vocalist/guitarist Alex Coehlo really is a dead ringer for Max Cavalera's old bark. They chuck a bit of an Exodus streetwise vibe and a sharper Slayer crunch along for the ride too.

It packages in reasonably predictable songs, but rioutously entertaining all the same. I can't help but get wound up in the pounding and feirce intro that is obviously paving the way for a monster opener screaming out its genesis with a hearty and searing solo. There's enough energy to keep me on my toes for the whole time, and the band make up for their lack of originality with their keen fasciantion with all things thrash. They are really into this stuff and it comes out loud and clear. 13 marauding cuts and not a slow or monotonous moment is allowed.

They manage to keep me on the edge of my seat, but the whole thing is still a few steps away from greatness. Every second of this album has already been done by various thrash acts over the years, and a far sight more creatively. But it's still nice to hear this kind of music coming out in such quality now, proving that the old thrash spirit is far from dead. If you were ever screaming for a follow up to the Seps "Arise" at any point over the years, then this might just be your lucky day. The album is to be released soon in Europe via Mausoleum Records.