Let us start by introducing the band (as if that is necessary). CATEGORY 7 is a so-called supergroupo, with members that have made their names in many places before now. John Bush has always been the frontman of ARMORED SAINT, but also has done that for a few years in ANTHRAX. Whatr al,ot of people don't know, is that he (twice) turned down a certain band in 1984, as they were looking for a singer themselves. We are talking about METALLICA. Phil Demmel is a guitarist and songwriter that has proven himself in bands like MACHINE HEAD. Mike Orlando is better known for his work in ADRENALINE MOB, while Jack Gibson plays the bass in EXODUS. Last, but certainly not least, we have the beast behind the drums Jason Bittner. He is one of the original members of SHADOWS FALL, but also played in OVERKILL until recently. The fact that he gave up that last job to concentrate on the SF and CATEGORY 7 is telling when it comes to how serious this band is in making a future for themselves.

Just a year after forming the band they have bombarded us with their debut album “Category 7”, and to say that it is having an impact on the Metal world in general and the Thrash Metal community in general is very very clear. But then again, with so much class in one place you can only hope that it translates well into the songs that are being offered. For 51 minutes long you can hear why John Bush is considered one of the best Metal voices walking this earth, but also why Jason Bittner is in such high demand as a drummer. In between those you will find the two guitarists Phil Demmel and Mike Orlando, who have written a whole bunch of brilliant riffs, which they wrapped into very appropriate songs. And Jack Gibson, well, he is the cement that brings and holds everything together.

As you would expect and hope, the production of the album is top notch. Hard, Heavy hitting, but still with enough space for the Melodic parts that are being played. As far as I can tell CATEGORY 7 is launching themselves into the Premier League Of Thrash Metal, but I do have a reservation. And it concerns the singing. John Bush is doing all of it on full volume, sometimes even in overdrive, He doesn't get the opportunity to tone it down or take it easy, not even for a little while. If the band would have done that, it would have enhanced the diversity of the album, and catapulted “Category 7” straight into the poll position. Now CATEGORY 7 have qualified with distinction, but not with excellence.