I really enjoyed this Thrash album.  "The Diseased Heart of Society" is SOLITARY'S third full length although since being formed in the 90's they have released various demos, an ep, and a live album.  The band definitely still retains a lot of that 80's thrash sound: amazing leads, out of tune vocals, and kick ass riffs.  However, they also sound very modern because they use just a hint of melody behind their thrash assault. The crisp, crystal clear production stands out as well-normally, especially with thrash, that can kill a band's intensity by taking a bite out of their music. With SOLITARY, it actually enhances their sound and I find it works very well mostly because it allows the bass to be heard a bit, an instrument that is all too often ignored in modern Thrash releases.

The song writing is very punchy, full of energy, because the songs are never allowed to lose their momentum, even while they are doing something melodic.  Although it begins thrashy, "Anthems of Regret," has melodic riffs during the stanzas but it still thrashes because of the throbbing bass and quick drums.  During the chorus the lead guitar shines, playing a melodic harmony that is fast enough to keep the flow but melodic enough for it to stand out.  For anyone looking for comparison, I would say they remind me somewhat of KREATOR because they know how to be heavy and melodic at the same time, without crossing the line too far on either side.

Richard, who also shares guitar duties with Andy, has a decent enough for voice for thrash.  I couldn't seem him fronting a Power or Prog metal band but for SOLITARY's sound, he is great.  I find him be comparable to Steve from EXODUS but he isn't as nasal in his approach. The band's energy is compelling when they squeeze in a ton of different parts in a short about of time.  On "Architects of Shame," melodic leads mix with crushing drums from Roy before it turns into fast as hell thrash, the guitars and drums hitting at the same time like the biggest hammer in the world.  When the vocals kick in, the song just plays along so smoothly, the band very confident in their abilities.  "Edge of Violence" is an album highlight-this song is thrashtastic.  The lighting fast beginning, with the entire band playing their instruments like it's the last time they ever will, the rapid fire vocals, the guitar solo....for a song under three minutes, they really cover all the thrash basic and they do it so damn well.

For my money, this album is a great example of thrash that mixes old and new flavors; it fits nicely besides bigger name thrash releases of the last couple years such as KREATOR, TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL, MEGADETH, ANTHRAX, EXODUS, and SODOM.  Honestly, if you are a find of any of those bands, or thrash in general, you NEED to hear this release; this is one of the best thrash albums I've heard in some time.