San Francisco thrash metal veterans Death Angel are back with their ninth studio album titled “Humanicide”, yet another uncompromising album that also pushes the envelope in terms of their own rules and boundaries of which thrash metal can sometimes be binded by.
With “Humanicide“, Death Angel set the pace early on with the title track kicking things off and it’s signature DA stuff. On the last few albums, the Bay Area thrashers have been on absolute fire, not only breathing new life in the old genre but into themselves as well. The title track of course proves they can still kick it with the best of them, especially with that huge breakdown two thirds of the way in but the album itself becomes more intricate in terms of sheer prowess and the ability to still surprise the listener after so many years.
“Divine Defector” is a fine example of that, where the old thrash stuff comes into play, furiously and on point while incorporating more aggressive elements that can sometimes be aligned with modern bands. But Death Angel are still old school all the way as seen on “Aggressor“, it’s heavy but with dynamics and some added different sounds which again is all encapsulated well inside that classic metal overtone the band are known for.
“The Pack” has got to be one of the favorites on here for sure, catchy heavy groove that will make you headbang emphatically. But one of the stand outs here which is sure to get a few fans talking is “Immortal Behated“. Aside from it’s heavy and dark ambience, it’s the notes led by a piano at the end to close it out is what stands out the most. Again it’s another territory for which Death Angel like to tread in but it’s done well and seamlessly.
Of course there’s plenty of vintage thrashers for people wanting it more in your face. Tracks like “I Came For Blood“, “Ghost of Me” and the more classic sounding “Of Rats and Men” more than provides that to fans who prefer their music fast and energetic. That core element will always be a part of Death Angel’s DNA but it is still great to see the band incorporate some other elements too just to keep things fresh and interesting. Over three decades in and the California 5 piece have still got it.
8/10
TRACKLIST
Humanicide
Divine Defector
Aggressor
I Came For Blood
Immortal Behated
Alive and Screaming
The Pack
Ghost of Me
Revelation Song
Of Rats and Men
The Day I Walked Away (Bonus Track)
