Thrash Metal – Page 3 – Metal Eclipse Reviews

Destruction – Birth of Malice

It’s time for a classic—after all, we don’t dive into those often enough around here. Does Destruction even need an introduction? For the younger crowd, here’s a quick history lesson: after the U.S. had its wave of Thrash, Germany followed suit with its own. The Teutonic version was more aggressive, though over time, it also embraced a more melodic edge. Destruction has seen it all—the highs, the lows, the classic albums (Release from Agony), and the not-so-classic ones (Born to Perish). So, where does Birth of Malice fit into this legacy? Is it going to beat us up at the bar, or will it need a hip replacement? Let’s find out!

Sacrifice – Volume Six

You know what we haven’t done this year? Review some fresh Tmehrash! I don’t know when the genre died again, but not so long ago, it was booming with ideas. At least last year, we got this beast. However, Sacrifice – Volume Six seems to aim for the more traditional side of the genre, where relentless pummeling and intense energy are the name of the game. You could even say they don’t make them like this anymore, so how about we dive into this modern relic?

Top Metal Albums That Perfectly Blend Subgenres in 2024

Metalcatto

This is my weirdest top to date. Some albums can’t be easily pinned to a single label—not because they’re musically bizarre (though that happens, too), but because they combine subgenres so effortlessly that they feel like their own category. This list celebrates that creativity, highlighting some of the most inventive albums of the year. Let’s dive in!

Auriferous Flame – The Insurrectionists and The Caretakers

Let’s travel to the cradle of democracy (assuming your definition of democracy includes only rich dudes voting) and meet Auriferous Flame, a band that doesn’t sound like your typical Greek outfit. Yes, it’s still Black Metal, but not the kind we’re accustomed to. The Insurrectionists and The Caretakers hit us with a sound that flirts with Black/Thrash, laced with Progressive influences. Intriguing, right? Let’s not delay any further and dive into this violent and dark revolution.

True kvlt: Torrefy, Neocracy & Shadows Decay

Sunday is here! Which means it’s time for another 400-500 words to make the Metal world a bit fairer. We’re shining a light on releases that you’ve personally sent us or that deserve some love in this cold, heartless world. This week won’t be as rancid and tvre as usual, since we’re focusing on bands building their hype, but who don’t necessarily sound like they’re gargling hot sauce in a tunnel. For once, we’re expecting a certain level of production quality, but don’t get too used to it—it won’t become a trend.

True kvlt: Roraima, A Xoloth, Natal Cleft, Niftar & Venus

What started as a cheap PR tactic has become a beloved part of this forgotten corner of the internet (MER). Here, you—the people—send us your work, and we give you a platform so you can brag to your friends and family that you’re now a musician someone writes about. As usual, we’ll give you a bit of praise and a bit of critique. Things we liked and things that… could improve (I sound like your boss now, right?). Time to start!

Retro-Review: Overkill – Feel the Fire

Welcome to Retro-Reviews, a space where I indulge in my own nostalgic reveries, reminiscing about a time that never truly existed, but one that I’ve crafted through various random albums that hold significance for me. Whether good or bad, one thing is certain: remembering can be a bittersweet journey.

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Retro-Review: Megadeth – Rust in Peace

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Cosmic Jaguar – El Era del Jaguar

An album like this usually goes straight to the True Kvlt section. It came late, with no promo and little clout (plus the title is missing an accent mark in Él, that’s how pedantic we can be at MER). However, I was also puzzled by how strange all its elements were. We’re talking about a Tech Death mixed with Aztec Folk Metal band, from Ukraine, with lyrics in English and Spanish. It can’t get weirder than this. I had to listen to it to believe it. Could Cosmic Jaguar‘s El Era del Jaguar join our small group of year-end deep underground revelations?

Oxygen Destroyer – Guardian of The Universe

Those of you who voted in our Instagram poll get what you wanted. It wasn’t a full majority, but no election gets that these days. So, to surprise you, I dug deep into my inner child to bring you Oxygen Destroyer‘s newest album, Guardian of the Universe. It has freaking Gamera, Mothra, and Megalon-like monsters on the cover! How could it get any weirder and cooler at the same time? (Can we finally get Gamera and Gozilla to fight each other? Japan, make it happen!) I know, the real question is: can you take this album seriously? Join us on this trip through the ruins left by unknown creatures!

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