Sunday, April 10, 2022

Destruction – Diabolical (Napalm Records)


 

Diabolical rules!  Yes, it’s an ass kicking record all the way through.  Yes, there is life after/without Mike.  The band sounds super tight, brutal, and pretty much ready to skin you alive.  The album is very catchy, performed at the break neck speed, and all around very intense.

When the news broke about guitar player, Mike, stepping down from his post, many, including this writer, were not sure as to what the future may hold.  After all, Mike, was one of the greatest guitar players in the thrash metal movement.  His riffing and tone certainly gave the band its identity.  The first listen of Diabolical made it obvious that everything is in its right place, and this is still Destruction.

Destruction now consists of two guitar players, Damir and newly added Furia.  They both created a great team, and their riffing and lead work is impeccable.  Vocalist/bassist, Schmier, made sure he has the right people around him to take the next step.  It makes Diabolical work on every possible level.  It’s a heavy record with a very melodic twist, nothing is compromised here.

There are so many great tracks on this album, it’s hard to predict what the fans will pick as their favorites.  After only few listens, Diabolical, and Hope Dies Last, or State of Apathy tend to stand out a tiny bit more than the rest, but that could change shortly.  The album sounds very fresh and exciting.  Destruction had a lot to prove here, and they got their point across with clarity and bluntness.

Diabolical is full of great performances.  The band is on fire, and you feel it in every track.  Schmier sings like a man possessed; applies every voice at his disposal, and finds a winning combination time after time.  Drummer, Randy, powers up the band with his very intense style and speed.  This is a focused effort to create the best thrash record possible.

Diabolical is definitely one of the essential metal albums released in 2022.  Considering the challenge, the band was faced with, they outdid themselves in the most positive manner imaginable.  Each listen presents more excitement and makes your speakers bleed.  Make no mistake, Destruction is here to stay!

Mark Kadzielawa


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