IFREANN is an old school thrash metal band, from the UK. After forming in 2015, IFREANN would go on to release their first EP, "Unearthly", in 2019, which was very well received. They return to the fold with their brand-new EP, "Desecration". IFREANN has a lot of old school thrash style in their music, with some more melodic chops to go along with their raucous thrash sound. Think, KREATOR, but with some very surprising melodies and musicianship. The EP starts things off with a bang, as "Of Blade & Blackened Wing" brings in a prototypical thrash attack. The unrelenting drumming, fast guitar riffing, and backing chanting vocals showcase a familiar and fun thrash metal sound.

There is a big difference in the style of IFREANN, though. There is a more melodious undertone that doesn't usually exist in the world of thrash. It helps to elevate their sound in a new way, that is, not common among most thrash bands. There is a nice addition of some brutal vocals that help to bring the sound to a definite heavier level as well. The ending drum solo is a nice touch to cap off a triumphant opening song. The second track comes as a bit of a surprise, as the tempo is slowed down a good amount, to bring in a very melodic heavy metal style. "Raised In Hate" is definitely not a very thrash sounding track, but it is great nonetheless. It allows you to hear the more modern style that IFREANN is going for in their quest for thrash dominance. The sound turns into this real proggy-like melody, complete with a nasty bass line that carries the track well. You can tell that there is not a typical sound going on with this EP. Pushing boundaries is always welcome, and IFREANN is accomplishing that with their style.

"Messiah" brings back the thrash elements in a big way, but with that same IFREANN melodious pummeling. The guitar work in this track, as well as the whole EP, is top notch. There is a bigger emphasis on the guitar soloing in this track but brings in more of that strong melodic undertone. "Crushed By Tyranny" sends the EP riding off into the sunset, with a melodic and thrash coupled style, complete with some more expert guitar soloing. "Desecration" is a definite entertaining EP throughout.

"Desecration" is a strong thrash outing for IFREANN. They blend their style of thrash with a great melodic modern sound. Things are going to be looking up for a band that can capture a more well-rounded sound, like IFREANN has. I await their first full-length album.