Swiss Thrashers GURD haven't got anything to prove with this album. They have got a solid 17 year history and they know what they're good at. But that isn't to say that they haven't put effort into "Never Fail" - quite the opposite. This is an impressive offering, and has all the trademark GURD heavy grooves coupled with the Thrash elements they are also known for.

The title track is the first on the album and also the first single. It starts an intense, no holds barred, 40 minutes of Thrash and Groove Metal. GURD haven't changed their sound much since their inception in '94, but I don't think they really need to. The album is heavy, has some excellent riffs and brilliant solos. The band has changed their line up a few times over the years, but has always kept the spirit of GURD in all of their releases, and "Never Fail" is no exception. It is their tenth full-length studio album, and they certainly don't show any signs of slowing down. It's no surprise that GURD have described this album as their 'heaviest and fastest record so far'.

The stand out track for me is "Rising From The Ashes". I think that it is the best example of Thrash and Groove Metal coming together, combining the vocals associated with these genres as well. It starts off on the Thrash side of things, with more Metal vocals, which become less rough as the Groove Metal aspect of the song happens. The song has a spectacular solo as well, really showing that the band members can play skillfully as well as quickly, heavily and loudly. Besides this one, every song of this album is good, as they all fit together nicely to form "Never Fail".

GURDare a band of talented musicians, and they have produced a high quality album which proves why they have been around for as long as they have. People who are already fans of the band will definitely enjoy this album, because GURD haven't changed their formula all that much, the only difference of this release being the slightly heavier riffs. If you're a fan of Thrash Metal, and you haven't checked out this band before now, this album is as good as any to start with.

I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good Thrash album, and while some might be wary of the Groove label, in my opinion, it really does add to it. Let me put it this way - GURD know what they're doing, and they do it very well.