I was aware of the existence of this band but I didn't have the chance to listen to any of their material. This seemed logical after I found out some stuff about them like that this album is their first one. I was much curious to listen to this album since I had a strong feeling that these guys would be pretty interesting. After listening to The Killing Has Begun that's what I have to say...
British Neo-Thrashers Chokehold were formed in 2005 (if I am not mistaken); right after the release of a five track demo CD entitled Legion. This demo CD secured them a contract with Casket Music. Chokehold have shared the stage with bands such as Caliban and Headless Cross. Now, their debut CD The Killing Has Begun is released and I am the one to review it...
As I said above, Chokehold's music can be described as Neo-Thrash Metal. You know, catchy tunes, sharp riffing, relentless drumming and a singer that screams his ass off. This album has its fast and brutal outbreaks, but it also has its more melodic and catchy breaks. There are some songs that may be stuck in your mind for some time, but these guys seem to be afraid to add some technique to their music. I mean, the songs are too simple. I know it is just their first full-length work and that's why I am hoping that their next album will kick serious ass! They just seem a bit afraid to dare to do things from their first official release. Anyway, The Killing Has Begun is a nice album that will be a good friend to your CD player for some time. You will pleasantly listen to it for some time, until it gets a bit monotonous. I don't want to sound yeah dude, I am the metal god but if someone has searched a bit more stuff about Thrash Metal and relevant kinds of Metal will see that this band doesn't have many things to offer to him except one more CD to his collection.
Have in mind my words, people who have listened to a lot of music and know some things more may not find many things in this release. I think that there are a lot better releases than this one out there. I know how hard it is to make money; I also know how people feel when spending them in mediocre releases. If you have some spare money, buy this CD. If not, prefer to buy something else.