Morbid Realization
Tormentor
•
June 25, 2017
Metal maniacs, rejoice! The Thrasher returns to present to you: TORMENTOR; signed via Iron Shield Records, hailing from the glory of Germany - performing Thrash Metal, on their 2nd album entitled "Morbid Realization" (released March 17th, 2017).
Since formation in 2006; the quintet in question have 1 album behind them, I'm introduced to their 2nd deliverance - "Morbid Realization". Consisting of 10 extensive tracks; ranging at around 42:27, TORMENTOR incorporate a very progressive start with the opening song "Hope". Until the thrashing assault begins with "Kill With No Excuse"; I immediately discover an influential type of formula to that of the leading Big Teutonic 4 members - KREATOR. This should not come as a surprise with one of the said quartet's songs being "Tormentor" (from the album "Endless Pain"), even the titular track has a lyric from the TYRANT era. Having been listening to this band in preparation for Bloodstock 2017, this discovery is very much welcome. Max on vocals/lead guitars impersonates Mille Petrozza ingeniously well, and the lyricism is notably indistinguishable too. The musicianship is chaotic, full of galloping grooves and gritty barking - the lyrics from titular track "GET MORBID NOW" is a clear indication of perfect imitation and mimicry.
"Comprehension Failed" is the shortest song at 2:17; yet is sharp and showcases consistently driven songwriting that's not exactly original but delightfully memorable, the sound production measures up and has a unique adroitness that demonstrates an intricate formulaic in design. Kevin on rhythm guitars formulates captivating adaptation with finely-crafted fretwork, constructively embellishing in divinity.
"Burning Empire" starts with an mid-tempo groove, full of succulent low-tempo solos and hard-hitting elegance. The powerhouse from Heiko on bass & Thomas on drums compile exquisite sound production adroitness, where the next track "Endless Emptiness" has a very resembled opening riff that MANOWAR embellish with - comparable to that of say "Blood Of My Enemies". It sounds solid and powerful until more thrashing madness ensues. "Forgotten" compiles more mid-tempo proficiency that has a substantial amount of oomph, galloping pummelling and prominence that will guarantee your thrashing needs. There is a diligently executed sense of enlightenment in "Lurks In The Dark" full of stimulating exertion and fulfilling enjoyment, the vehemence in this production is undoubtedly impeccable - all instruments sound fine and the craftsmanship is satisfying.
If anything "Morbid Realization" is a perfect tribute to the thrash masters - KREATOR. "Walk Past Myself" manifests with an organic aesthetic in rhythm timing, and a unique substance that has a complexing yet dextrous efficiency to it that sounds sufficiently rewarding. "Path To The Dark Side" shows TORMENTOR revive the old-school Teutonic Thrash Metal days with a record for the 21st century (not that we already have DESTRUCTION, SODOM etc, but more bands are most definitely welcoming). Overall – I relished listening to this record, having distinct comparisons to the aforementioned, this was most certainly a record that had the eye-catching and surprising factor in full effect. It's not "Gods Of Violence" material; more a revival in the "Pleasure To Kill", "Terrible Certainty" era, so if you are a fan of those records - I urge you to check out this gem, and witness beneficial results...while going nuts!
8 / 10
Excellent
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"Morbid Realization" Track-listing:
1. Hope
2. Kill With No Excuse
3. Morbid Realization
4. Comprehension Failed
5. Burning Empire
6. Endless Emptiness
7. Forgotten
8. Lurks In The Dark
9. Walk Past Myself
10. Path To The Dark Side
Tormentor Lineup:
Max - Vocals/Lead Guitars
Thomas - Drums
Heiko - Bass
Kevin - Rhythm Guitars
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