Britain’s thrashers Shrapnel are on a mission to carry the torch for classic thrash metal unleashing a massive dosage of unrestrained guitar driven grooves on the new full length “Palace For The Insane”.
The atmospheric intro of “Might Of Cygnus” evokes a darkened tranquility with compelling melodic progressions yet the mood changes significantly when an inflamed rhythmic rampage generates super groovy thrash dynamics often spiced up by the charismatic guitar phrases and the skillful shredding.
“Vultures Circle” offers a straightforward rhythmic assault characterized by a familiar ‘80s thrash formula that demands extra sharp guitar riffs and colossal drum blasts accompanied by fierce screams and killer guitar progressions.
“Cannibal” showcases a no frills aggressive approach so the relentless rhythmic section and the hostile vocal delivery are always fueled by an ominous energy leading to raging guitar riffs and excellent solos.
On the elaborate track “Begin Again” the gloomy atmospheric waves evoke deeply nostalgic feelings that favor slower contemplative moments as well as fiery guitar progressions and wild soloing that allow the band to truly show a remarkable musicianship.
“Violent Now, Forever” is all about timeless old school thrash metal providing a generous dosage of untamed rhythmic patterns that once again highlight the crucial role of the fast ravenous riffage and the intriguing guitar leads.
“Future Sight” gradually builds a rhythmic tension as the guitar work spontaneously shifts from venomous riffs to calm melancholic phrases and the resulting contrasting tonalities add variety to the main sonic pathway.
The title track returns to merciless rhythmic patterns constantly channeling the heaviest aspects of thrash metal as the guitar riffs diligently follow a faster menacing tempo amplified by the malevolent screams and enriched by the striking acrobatics of the solo.
The headbanging galore is mandatory listening to the savage grooves of “Palace For The Insane” and Shrapnel certainly prove that thrash metal still holds an essential status within the modern metal scene.