Bolt thrower
Those once loyal (8cd)
Wydane przez Metal Blade RecordsRok wydania 2005Kraj UKNapisał Wouter7
There are still certainties in this genre. UK death metal pioneers Bolt Thrower have been perfecting their groovy death metal sound since 1989's "Realm Of Chaos". After a brief intro 'At First Light' kicks in and displays a band in rare form. Chugging riffs, rolling drums, some quick solo'ing and Karl Willets at the vocal slot, roaring his recognizable growl. As expected, Birmingham's Bolt Thrower are still loyal to the sound they helped invent. Mid-paced death metal with groovy riffs, memorable leads and pounding drumwork. 'Entrenched' quickens the pace and in that sense reminds me a lot of '92's "The IVth Crusade". Jo Bench's bass-lines can clearly be heard on this album and the sound only benefits from this. 'The Killchain' is classic Bolt Thrower, in '94's "For Victory" sense. This track is a continuation of concepts and themes started in 'World Eater', of 1989's seminal "Realm Of Chaos" album. 'Granite Wall' is a full-out groove track, suggesting some serious headbanging action on gigs and a possible live classic in the making. 'Those Once Loyal' and 'Anti-Tank (Dead Armour)' are both vintage Bolt Thrower, with the latter including a quick lead and no less than two bass leads. 'Last Stand Of Humanity' and 'Salvo' are two interesting tracks for a number of reasons. The first includes some interesting drum work, while the second does the same in the guitar area. Overall, "Those Once Loyal" is a solid, competent return for Bolt Thrower. While the album tends to plays a bit like a greatest hits of sorts, it's good having them back. Limited digi-pack comes with an exclusive bonus track. Pick this album up now.
www.boltthrower.com
