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DESTRUCTION
Birth Of Malice
Napalm Records

As part of the Big German 4 of Thrash, DESTRUCTION have been an unrelenting force for over 40 years. Shaping the way we view and hear Metal while polishing their style like a butcher's blade. Full of catchy riffs that stick with you all these years, the German Legends have done it again with their newest release Birth Of Malice, released through one of the best labels right now, Napalm Records. As if they needed any introduction, opening with a new anthem simply titled "Destruction" is an ode to themselves and their legacy, describing who they are and what they've always stood for, a voice for the outcasts and those who resist and stand up for Metal.

On track 2, things really take off with pummeling double-bass action on "Cyber Warfare". Here is where you start to catch some of the lyrical content that demonstrates the power and positive influence Metal can have, striking up the conversation about the social issues plaguing mankind. Whether it be war or any form of suppression, Metal and Rock has always had a positive influence, encourages freewill, to think for oneself and question everything. Today's young society needs to listen closely to this album and many bands like DESTRUCTION, especially those who came after and were influenced by German Thrash, a vastly different style, and many would argue is a superior style than that of the American "Big 4". Nevertheless, this textbook Thrash 101 by the legends doesn't disappoint. With them, you know what you're getting.

Some of my favorite tracks on Birth Of Malice are "Cyber Warfare", "No Kings - No Masters", "Chains Of Sorrow" for the unrelenting, fast-pace emotion. The tracks "Scumbag Human Race", "God Of Gore" and "A.N.G.S.T." will suit the more groove-oriented fan. With a combination of players still fresh to the band, guitarist Martin Furia making his 2nd appearance, both Damir Eskic (also guitar) and drummer Randy Black on their 3rd go around, the revolving and evolving members, as well as the modern studio technology that has caught up - takes DESTRUCTION's sound to new heights, giving depth and warmth to every squealing guitar, thunderous bass, pounding bass-drum and Schmier's trademark yell.

While I thought Born To Perish (2019) was peak, follow-up Diabolical, which for me was a pick for the best of 2022, Birth Of Malice almost had the same intensity as these records, still ferocious and really hits all the key points that you want from a DESTRUCTION record. This album will nail you to the cross and give fans what they expect from the German legends. With artwork to match, done by Havancsak Gyula (who's done art for LEGION OF THE DAMNED, ENSIFERUM, ACCEPT - and many more), it's an important extension of the art played on by DESTRUCTION. After all, isn't it the cover art that helped grab our attention to Metal in the beginning?

You have to respect what Schmier and DESTRUCTION have brought through 4 decades, shaping Thrash Metal and having been there since the early beginnings of Metal as a whole, always appreciative of the loyals who have followed their legacy all this time, and new fans made each day - all will have this new album on blast frequently until they come around their town for tour and if you haven't see them live before, prepare for what is an amazing and fun time, as you're surrounded my some of the greatest Metalheads in the world. Hail DESTRUCTION.

4.0 Out Of 5.0