The EP opens with a ferociously fast riff which is accompanied by vicious chord stabs, and when vocalist Jae venomously spits out "I am eternal war!", you can be certain that this band mean business. Opening track "Eternal War" is arguably the most impressive on the disk, with catchy vocal lines and gripping changes in pace acting as the perfect counterpart to a destructive rhythm section. The delivery of the vocals throughout the record is one of the factors that really makes it stand out, as intelligent lyrics are bellowed in an almost percussive manner, making for some very catchy chorus and verse sections. This track also plays host to the finest example of another very impressive aspect to the EP: the backing vocals which are a staple for nearly all successful thrash bands.
Track number 3, entitled "Comatose" brings a different side to Shrapnel to the forefront of the onslaught, as heavy mid-paced riffing is engulfed by haunting cleans before the final audible attack strikes. This creates an atmospheric sense of dread and showcases this band's more "evil" side. The thundering chorus screams of "catatonic comatose" certainly stick in the mind well after the record has finished and this is testament to the great song writing that is offered up by Shrapnel on this release.
The musicianship on display throughout this EP is very impressive, as the band tightly pound through song after song with razor sharp precision. The duelling guitars give more than a nod to the likes of Forbidden, as Nathan and Adam whip up a cataclysmic whirlwind of great lead work, something which complements the riffing and song structures very well. The drums and bass allow the riffs to breathe and headbang throughout, which means that the songs remain catchy at all times.
Produced by the legendary Russ Russell, this record sounds fantastic, with a production that is suitably heavy, tight and raw in appropriate measures. Modern day Exodus and Onslaught take note - this is how thrash is supposed to sound!
I have also had the pleasure of watching this band live, and they certainly don't disappoint, with their infectious grooves and pounding break-neck rhythms translating very well to the stage setting. If they come to a town near you - go and see them, you won't regret it!
To conclude, Shrapnel are a band that deserve to be firmly planted on your radar if you consider yourself a fan of thrash metal, particularly if you take an interest in the current British scene. This band are right up there with Mutant, SSS, Deceptor and Evile for me, and I for one cannot wait to hear some more material.
4.5/5
For fans of - Warbringer, Exodus, Slayer, Destruction, Kreator and Violator
/L
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