Maybe it is a shame on me that I never got to know this Spanish band before taking a listen to their new release. However, I am not feeling any sort of embarrassment as with the rapid speed of albums coming out nowadays, it is possible to miss and quite a lot. In any case, I had these Spaniards called AGRESIVA landing on my ears with "Decibel Ritual", certainly an exception for ear shattering volume way above the standard. Well, not quite, but still strong. Newly signed to the underground label Minotauro Records, it smelled like an attempt for a break, another level up. Gearing themselves properly to the challenge, investing in the album's production, AGRESIVA spreads their determination across the album, and its story begins.

Bipolar in its personality, maintaining both a Thrash and traditional Metal imageries, AGRESIVA wrote an impressive form of music for "Decibel Ritual". At times I was amazed by the dexterity and talent of the riff machine, Miguel Coello, which brought up some fine 80s memories while embracing several modern elements to create an interesting mix that would captivate for another listen. In general, along with the rhythm section's keeping the peace, I perceived AGRESIVA as nice harmony of MEGADETH / ANNIHILATOR / GAMA BOMB and a few shared qualities with early EXODUS. It appears that they refined Thrash Metal in a way that it wouldn't sound overly brutal, assembling melodic Metal aspects and of course a set of clean vocals. As for the vocals, it seemed to be the weakest link. With all due respect to Samuel, I was a bit perplexed. It was either that production's approach towards the vocals which resulted in a less commanding front in the mix, in comparison to the perfect guitar production, or it is a mere ability thing, as the vocals are simply one dimensional.

Songwriting wise, it sounded pretty straightforward most of the way, neatly done and to the point, melodic choruses and set blaze soloing sections that were expected, yet there were a few selective tunes that breached the barrier, trying to diversify their scenery. "Heading for Midnight" and "Grateful" took on a revamped 80s Heavy Metal turn with a fine Thrash Metal momentum to accelerate the intensity and enthusiasm, quite a selection of amazing riffs hitting hard. "Under Silver Selene" and what appeared to be as an anti-religious "Cleansing / The Aftermath" exemplified AGRESIVA's attempt to complex things up a bit, still keeping it melodic but going through a fine phase of neat progression in their spectrum. I would also recommend on: "Rodents in a Wheel" and "Void".

Trying to put tabs on every band is an impossible task. It is amazing that there is so much material out there to reach out to, yet time, oh father time. I got to know a good band with a good talent of making the 80s relevant, hard drive and alive. Keep up the good work.