Before the canonization of Thrash Metal that happened on 1986 (due METALLICA's commercial success with "Master of Puppets"), there wasn't, as many can think, a defined formula for the genre that every musician did. No, in general things aren't in this way. In Thrash Metal, it wasn't only the mix between influences of Heavy Metal and Hardcore, but truly an evolution of many different influences gathering in music, and time made the rest. All these words only to say that even playing an old Metal genre, the North American quintet VANISHMENT shows some good surprises on "No More Torture", their first full length. Thrash Metal isn't only the combination of Heavy Metal melodies with Punk Rock/Hardcore fast tempos, so the quintet invests in a formula that is similar to the same one used by METALLICA, TESTAMENT and other pioneers in their early days: the aggressiveness of Thrash Metal fused with excellent and hooking Heavy/US Metal melodies (where some influences of North American Hard Rock of the 70's can be detected by experienced ears).

So it can be described as a modern and aggressive music with excellent choruses and many hooks that aren't usual for the genre. In other words: the old formula used with a new energy and a personal insight. Simplifying things: it's very good, indeed. The production of the album was done in a way that allows the band to express its music in an aggressive and defined way, because it's heavy and nasty as a mule's kick in the mouth, but clean in a way that allows the melodies to be heard clearly. Of course things can be better on their next album, for some instrumental tunes o9n the drums could be better (especially the snare drum). And Jeremy (the band's guitarist/keyboardist) did a very good work on the artwork and layout.

Musically, these earthquakers of Seattle (the same city that gave to the world names as QUEENSRŸCHE, SANCTUARY and others) are here to shatter the tectonic plates of Earth with songs as "Door to Deceit" (a brutal and anguishing Thrash Metal song with clear traces of influences of Second Wave of the genre, and what bonecrushing guitar riffs and arrangements), "Dismiss the Warning" (where the melodic side of their music becomes clean, and the US Metal/Heavy Metal traces entangle the senses of those who hear to this song, and with very good aggressive vocals), "Forced Compliance" (these melodies peculiar of USA Metal bands are amazing, but pay attention to the very good rhythmic conductions of bass guitar and drums), "Killing the Sun" (the keyboards intro invokes some traces of KING DIAMOND's ambiences, with oppressive and heavy slow parts), "Death Calls" (the fine combination between charming melodies and hooks of Thrash Metal are really great here), and "Lost Hope for Comfort". But these ones are just for the first time on "No More Torture", because on the second, you'll be hearing all the tracks! And it's on their Bandcamp.

The band just needs to sharp their skills a bit more, adjust the sound quality, and VANISHMENT will be ready to conquer the world. For now, be welcome, and "No More Torture" deserves to be heard as loud as possible!