Nuclear Assault – Radiation Sickness (Dissonance Productions)

 

Radiation Sickness is a live record from Nuclear Assault that goes back all the way to 1986.  At that time, the band released their Game Over album, and were instantly hailed as the new purveyors of thrash.  There was a very strong factor of coolness Nuclear Assault possessed, and it certainly worked in their favor.  Their album was strong, the fans quickly accepted the fans, and needless to say things were happening for the band.

This show was originally released on a video tape, and it really captures the moment in time.  The songs played here come from the first album, and show the band still learning the ropes of touring, and making their mark.  The show captured here, in England, catches the band on their first overseas trip.  Nuclear Assault is very precise here, and delivers a very scripted show.  The sound definitely improved since that import video tape became available back in the 80s.  At times, it sounds kind of echoed, but this is a strong show, and those songs simply can’t be touched. 

Radiation Sickness can be a lot of things to a lot of people.  Yes, it’s just another archival live record to many.  If you were there, and saw Nuclear Assault on those first tours, it takes you back to that magical time, and reminds you what a great time you and your friends used to have at those shows.  Those early Nuclear Assault shows were special, and whether it was Chicago, or London, the band always gave their best, and everyone left feeling satisfied.

This is a great tribute to those amazing times of mid 80s thrash scene.  Everything was new and fresh at the time.  The bands were making up history as they went along.  It was a great scene to be part of, and Nuclear Assault certainly made it special.  It is also a great live tribute to Game Over, one of the best thrash metal debuts of all times.  Please remember this material was not recorded with the idea of being a live record, but over the decades it became a reality.  The recording has an incredible spirit, and shows the band in a very unique setting.

Mark Kadzielawa