The late 80s and early 90s were packed with a large amount of rather young Thrash bands before getting hit by the Grunge institution. Some soured, some were lost in the mid 90s music and lost their way, and some just broke down and disbanded. Unfortunately, BITTER END, one of the many US bands, were one of those who packed up their gear and went home. After a debut on Metal Blade Records, "Harsh Realities", which served as a promising Technical Thrash burst, it all went numb. Now they are back with a purpose to continue from where they left off back in 1993.

In order to celebrate their original lineup's reunion, BITTER END, through their new label of Metal On Metal Records, released a compilation by the name of "Have A Nice Death". I don't know if this title had a comic aim, but it drew a smile out of me. Besides the chance to have a second on their first demo and a little live experience, this compilation offers studio session tracks dated after the release of the debut that were only played live. If you were looking for brand new stuff, you will have to wait a bit but after listening to the session, you will find out that the same direction remained and possibly will remain.

I remember the first time I listened to "Harsh Realities" and it hit me that I was listening to a complex version of MEGADETH, METALLICA, SACRED REICH and a spark of ANNIHILATOR. BITTER END doesn't look like a musical experiment or showcase of abilities. The tunes actually mean something and while not just being a shadow of music. On the other hand, Metalheads that like their Metal fluent might have to adjust to the show.

I admired the lead section of these guys as it seemed to have drawn force from Hard Rock to classic Metal. The vocals were an obvious mix of Mustaine vs. Hetfield, but quite good. When it came to the rhythm section, if you won't pay attention you might lose yourself from its wide diversity due to the amazing guitar, bass and drum work. From the "newer" stuff I recommend "Sludge" that was utterly assorted but great, "No Law" that was a fierce thrasher and "Burning Bridges" that was a cool mix of great technique and classic playing. The live set was a bit hard to comprehend due to the production that is poor. As for the demo, I would suggest on tuning to it first in order to watch a young band grow.

BITTER END is back and that is and fact. Even though I think that this release is a mere promo to something unknown, it was a fine promotional movement. The only thing left is to test their skills in the present.