Blindeath – Into the Slaughter

Blindeath is another Italian thrash band. Like many of their peers, this band is relatively new, having only been around for a few years. They previously released one demo and an EP, and in 2014, put forth their first full-length effort: “Into The Slaughter”. The general sound on this release is what you would expect from an Italian thrash band: lots of good riffs, somewhat distinctive vocals, and plenty of speed. The singing is the primary differentiating factor here from the legions of Italian thrash bands. The vocalist for Blindeath is somewhere in between a singer like Paul Baloff and a more blackened thrash vocalist. In that sense, his vocals are aggressive, but feel a little sloppy. This isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it really shows a nice homage to vocalists who take more influence from the rougher side of metal.

Aside from the riffs, the guitar work is pretty impressive. Opening track “Blood and Guts” has some extensive soloing, and, as you might imagine, it is virtuosic without feeling technical. This is something not contained to this track, as solid guitar work is apparent all throughout the album. The riffs tend to be largely in the Exodus vein (though as “Blood In Blood Out” just proved, nobody can even come close to matching Exodus’ ferocity). Occasionally there is something a bit different, such as the pinch harmonic abuse in “Murdered By The Beast”. Nevertheless, if you are seeking innovative riffing on “Into The Slaughter”, you won’t really find it. That statement applies equally to the songwriting as well. In fact, as much as it will pain some people to hear it, the best songs on this release are the two mosh anthems: “Moshing Maniax” and “Welcome To The Thrash Party”. These songs provide a feast of riffs and headbanging material that is sure to please thrashers (though to be fair, that applies to every song here; these two tracks just do it best).

As you may have guessed, this album does not reinvent the wheel. While not sounding identical to any other specific Italian thrash band, one can’t help but feel tired out by this point. This scene is so deep, and, with few exceptions, it feels like they all set out to make standard thrash. There’s nothing wrong with that of course, but it’s hard to recommend listening to this many thrash records from Italy, even if you’re as keen on the subgenre as I am. All the elements are here (even the enthusiasm), but unfortunately this album still feels a bit redundant.

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Highlights

"Moshing Maniax"

"Welcome To The Thrash Party"

Final Rating

3.5/5 or 70%. 

Written by Scott