🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Wrath of Prophecies
Track 2: Under the Gaslight
Track 3: Forever and Beyond Despair
Track 4: The Tale of Unsound Minds
Track 5: Divide and Conquer
Track 6: Year of the Goat
Track 7: Taken by Flames
Track 8: Defectum Omnium / Stolen Hope
Track 9: Three Stages of Truth / Lacing the Well
Track 10: Sedition
🎸 Album Review:
Exhorder, the legendary thrash/groove metal band hailing from New Orleans, has made a triumphant return with their long-awaited album ‘Defectum Omnium’. A follow-up to their last studio album released in 1992, this record marks the band’s reemergence into the metal scene with a powerful statement of raw aggression and musical prowess.
From the moment ‘Wrath of Prophecies’ kicks in, it’s clear that Exhorder has not lost an ounce of their intensity over the years. The album’s sound is a perfect blend of thrash metal’s relentless speed and groove metal’s infectious rhythms. Each track is a sonic assault on the senses, filled with thunderous riffs, blistering solos, and frontman Kyle Thomas’s signature guttural vocals that cut through the mix like a knife.
Thematically, ‘Defectum Omnium’ delves into dark and introspective territories, exploring concepts of despair, betrayal, and rebellion. The lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking, adding depth to the already heavy musical landscape crafted by the band. The album’s title track, ‘Defectum Omnium’, stands out as a highlight, with its haunting melodies and powerful message of resilience in the face of adversity.
Standout tracks like ‘Under the Gaslight’ and ‘Year of the Goat’ showcase Exhorder’s ability to seamlessly blend aggressive riffing with melodic hooks, creating songs that are both headbang-inducing and memorable. ‘Taken by Flames’ is another standout track, with its dynamic shifts in tempo and Thomas’s emotive vocal delivery adding an extra layer of intensity to the track.
Compared to their previous albums, ‘Defectum Omnium’ sees Exhorder refining and evolving their sound while staying true to their roots. The band’s trademark groove metal elements are still present, but there is a newfound sense of maturity and complexity in their songwriting that sets this album apart from their earlier works. The production is top-notch, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive and powerful sound throughout.
The album’s closing track, ‘Sedition’, is a fitting end to the journey that ‘Defectum Omnium’ takes listeners on. With its anthemic chorus and blistering guitar work, the song leaves a lasting impression and serves as a reminder of Exhorder’s undeniable influence on the metal scene.
In conclusion, ‘Defectum Omnium’ is a triumphant return for Exhorder, showcasing the band at the top of their game and proving that their brand of metal is as relevant and powerful as ever. With its blistering riffs, thought-provoking lyrics, and undeniable energy, this album is a must-listen for fans of thrash and groove metal alike. Exhorder has once again solidified their place as metal legends, and ‘Defectum Omnium’ is a testament to their enduring talent and passion for their craft.