DESTRUCTION - Day Of Reckoning
March 3, 2011, 13 years ago
Nuclear Blast
OK, I’m friends with Schmier and he gave me an early listen to the demo, back in the summer, but that in no way diminishes my objectivity. This album slays, namely giving guitarist Mike Sifringer a long overdue moment in the spotlight, but with a memorable groove (melodies you can remember/hum). No symphonies or other new fangled tricks, just old school thrash. Can the drummer really reproduce this insanity live? If so, a noticeable upgrade in the intensity. Pre-release online teaser, ‘The Price’ is a quick hitting opener and at 3:41, it’s the second shortest track of the eleven. The title 'Hate Is My Fuel' is almost autobiographical, when it comes to Schmier and the longstanding targets of his ire: politics and organized religion. Both take it on the chin again, the disc ending 'Sheep Of The Regime' deals with the former, while 'Armageddonizer' (warfare espousing religious ideology) and the Lord's Prayer begun 'Church Of Disgust' skewer the latter. Listen carefully for hints of Cracked Brain level of musicality and the odd swirling noises of the title cut. Mike shine on solos during 'Sorcerer Of Black Magic' and 'The Demon Is God', but he’s obvious throughout Day Of Reckoning. In fact, the last sound heard is the fading out of wah wah screeching guitar!
