Hailing from Leeds, UK, Pest Control unleashes a debut album, “Don’t Test the Pest,” that’s a potent cocktail of crossover thrash fury. This offering is a love letter to the genre’s golden age, brimming with breakneck tempos, mosh-worthy riffs, and a healthy dose of youthful aggression. Does “Don’t Test the Pest” simply retread familiar territory, or does it inject new life into the crossover thrash formula? Let’s crank up the volume, unleash the pit, and find out.
A Nostalgic Thrash Party with Modern Bite:
Don’t be fooled by the retro album cover – Pest Control isn’t simply a nostalgia act. Their sound is steeped in the influence of thrash titans like Slayer and D.R.I., but with a modern production value that ensures the music resonates with contemporary listeners. The Mastodon-approved mastering by Arthur Rizk (Power Trip, Cavalera Conspiracy) adds a layer of sonic heft without sacrificing the raw energy that defines crossover thrash.
Leah’s Vocals: A Venomous Outburst
Vocalist Leah is a revelation. Her voice is a perfect fit for the band’s aggressive sound. She snarls and spits lyrics with venomous precision, channeling the spirit of Debbie Gunn (D.R.I.) and Angela Gossow (Arch Enemy). Her performance adds a layer of confrontational energy that fuels the album’s mosh-worthy potential.
A Masterclass in Riff-Crafting:
The guitar work on “Don’t Test the Pest” is nothing short of phenomenal. Jack (ex-Death Metal bruisers Mortuary Spawn) unleashes a torrent of headbanging riffs, from thrashy gallops to mosh-inducing breakdowns. There’s a clear understanding of what makes a great thrash riff – a perfect blend of technicality and pure headbanging appeal.
Short, Sharp Shocks to the System:
Most tracks on “Don’t Test the Pest” clock in under the two-minute mark, a testament to the band’s commitment to delivering pure, unadulterated thrash bliss. This brevity keeps the energy levels high throughout the album, ensuring there’s not a single dull moment.
A Party with Punk Rock Spirit:
The album’s crossover influences shine through on tracks like “Masquerade Party,” which injects a dose of punk rock irreverence into the thrash foundation. This genre-bending approach keeps the music fresh and avoids falling into the trap of being a mere pastiche of past glories.
A Debut that Demands a Mosh Pit:
“Don’t Test the Pest” isn’t an album for passive listening. It’s a call to arms, an invitation to unleash your inner rage in the pit. This is music that’s meant to be experienced live, sweat dripping, and fists pumping.
A Promising Start for a Band With Teeth:
Pest Control’s debut album is a triumph. “Don’t Test the Pest” is a potent blend of classic thrash aggression, modern production values, and a healthy dose of youthful exuberance. With its killer riffs, venomous vocals, and in-your-face attitude, Pest Control is a band to watch. Get ready to circle pit, because Pest Control has arrived, and they’re here to stay.
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