Suicidal Angels
Sanctify The Darkness
7.7
When I think of Greek metal, black metal is the first thing that comes to mind, but Greece is not without its contribution to the thrash epidemic. Suicidal Angels have been plying their trade since 2001, releasing a handful of demos and EPs, and two full length albums, of which Sanctify the Darkness is the latest. The band takes quite a few stylistic cues from German thrash, with gravelly vocals reminiscent of Sodom, and a tight polished performance reminiscent of latter day Kreator, but the band’s dark sound, frantic solos, and strong anti-christian sentiment point to a strong Slayer influence.
Suicidal Angels definitely know how to thrash; the band has a pure, classic sound that will make any thrash fan feel right at home. The album’s songs all feature a truckload of cutting riffs, manic tempo changes, and enough groove to get your head banging. Standout tracks include “Lies,” a savage track reminiscent of prime Slayer, the infectiously galloping “Atheist,” and “The Pestilence of Saints,” a full-bore thrasher that brings to mind Sodom’s “Nuclear Winter.”
Sanctify the Darkness is a finely crafted and expertly executed platter of thrash. The only criticism I can offer is that Suicidal Angels might be victims of their own proficiency. What made the early thrash bands sound so vital was that they played at the edge of their abilities, with a reckless abandon that gave one the feeling that the wheels could come off at any time. Suicidal Angels, by contrast, sound a bit too in control. That is not to say that the band is half-assing it; the playing is viscous, but just not quite the rip-your-fucking-face-off THRRRRRASH! that I think this band is capable of. Suicidal Angels are very good, but if they dig a little deeper, I think they could be excellent.
