I've never had an interest in this "classic" Canadian metal band, and if this record is any gauge of their career, now I know why. This is a "best of" type of collection (some tracks dating back to 1983), but all of the songs have been re-recorded, which seems pointless to me. Because not only am I not a fan of records like this, but bands shouldn't do 'em after they're already washed up. Plus, what's the point of re-recording a few tracks that were only released four or five years ago!? I mean, I have no idea what most of this stuff originally sounded like, but this is weak, and for a "modern" recording, it sounds like shit! The guitar tone is all fuzzed out and obnoxious, the drums are fuckin' flimsy and weak, the vocals aren't that hot, and I'm not hearing much bass. I don't know, it doesn't sound dated, but it certainly doesn't sound that good either, so I don't see what the point of re-recording anything was at all - I would've preferred a selection of the original recordings. As far as the style, it's sort of classic heavy metal with a thrashier edge. "Violence and Force" reminds me of something that could've been on Anthrax's "Fistful of Metal", a few other tracks have more of a less melodic Iron Maiden/Judas Priest thing going on (mainly vocally - and of course not as good), etc. Most of the songs aren't even that well written, either! I like the fast paced tempos and the sense of rhythm, but "Violence and Force" is pretty much the only truly memorable song herein. The layout is pretty damn goofy, too. The cover art is goofy, the band photos are goofy (sorry, but it looks like the guys are wearing wigs and trying to make fun of the typical metal look, but they're not - and that's even goofier), etc. Inside the booklet there's nothing but a collage of old photos of the band and thanks lists/credits, no lyrics or anything of real interest regarding the band's history or whatnot. I mean, fuck this... the band lineup has changed so many times over the years that this makes no damn sense. The only original member playing on this fucker is the guitarist, and even he had left the band from 1986 - 1992... their original drummer/vocalist hasn't been with 'em for over 10 years! I don't know, maybe if I had followed them for a long time I'd care, but I doubt it. I can't imagine I would give a shit if Anthrax released something like this these days, so why would I care that Exciter did it? I'll pass. Why the hell did Osmose even bother putting this out?
[Osmose]
Running time - 65:58, Tracks: 15
[Notable tracks: Violence and Force, The Dark Command]
Osmose Productions - http://www.osmoseproductions.com
