One of the trends we are seeing in this new retro-thrash scene is bands naming themselves after famous songs by other thrash metal bands. This is the most obvious example, this band is of course named after the landmark debut album by Exodus. Well, if you're going to have the gall to name yourself after a huge album like this, you better back it up with something special. Bonded by Blood present the thrash metal concept album. Huh?The concept has something to do with life progressing 600 years after an atomic bomb decimated the planet and reduced the world's population. Interesting stuff, but nothing terribly original. We're basically talking about the plot of the Terminator movies crossed with the Matrix movies here. Still, at least they are taking a risk.
The music and vocals are pretty similar to the band who created their namesake. They play very fast, razor-sharp thrash metal with very precise riffs and harshly shouted vocals. There are also frequent gang vocals throughout just in case you forgot this band was influenced by Exodus. The riffs are catchy and fun and this album, despite it's more serious lyrical subject matter, is an upbeat and entertaining listen. There is anger that comes across in the music, but I would not qualify it as an angry album.
This is an entertaining album and is one of the better albums from the retro thrash movement. I actually do not have much of an issue with that scene at all, as a huge thrash metal fan. I like that bands are paying homage to the old guard, as long as they are not just mindlessly repeating what has already been done. Bonded by Blood provides enough of their own character to keep things going.
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