Austrian crossover thrashers Insanity Alert take a break from their original material on their latest release, “Moshemian Trashody,” a four-track EP dedicated to covering iconic songs and injecting them with a healthy dose of thrash energy and playful humor. Does it work? Let’s dive into this mosh pit of nostalgia.
A Track-by-Track Thrashing Through Covers:
- Opening Maw (Originally by Iron Maiden): The EP explodes with a familiar intro riff, instantly recognizable to any Maiden fan. Insanity Alert wastes no time in accelerating the tempo, transforming the galloping anthem into a full-blown thrash assault. Lead vocalist Flo makes the song his own with a throaty snarl, while the band stays true to the spirit of the original.
- Beer in the Park (Originally by Iron Maiden): Another Maiden classic gets the thrash treatment here. The band maintains the iconic intro but quickly launches into a breakneck speed, transforming the pub singalong into a headbanging frenzy. Flo’s playful delivery adds to the fun, and the guitar solos are scorching hot.
- Raining Blood (Originally by Slayer): Insanity Alert ventures outside the Maiden camp for this Slayer classic. Here, they slow down the tempo slightly compared to their previous covers, but the aggression remains. Flo delivers a convincing Hetfield-esque snarl, and the rhythm section lays down a punishing groove. A shredding guitar solo adds a touch of technicality.
- Symphony of Destruction (Originally by Megadeth): The EP closes with a high-octane thrash rendition of Megadeth’s masterpiece. Insanity Alert stays true to the original structure while injecting their signature frenetic energy. Flo absolutely nails Mustaine’s vocals, and the guitar work is tight and impressive. This cover is a fitting closer, leaving the listener wanting more.
Overall Impression:
“Moshemian Trashody” is a lot of fun. Insanity Alert doesn’t take themselves too seriously, and their playful approach to these classic songs is infectious. The thrash arrangements are tight and energetic, and the band clearly enjoys the process of paying homage to their influences. While some listeners might prefer the band’s original material, this EP is a solid collection of well-executed covers that will bring a smile to the face of any thrash enthusiast.
Final Verdict:
With their energetic thrash renditions, playful humor, and clear respect for the source material, Insanity Alert’s “Moshemian Trashody” is a delightful tribute to classic metal anthems. While it might not break new ground, it delivers exactly what it promises: a thrashing good time. For fans of both Insanity Alert and the covered artists, this EP is a must-listen. (4 out of 5)
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