Metalium follows the formula set by the greats, and perhaps in time will become great themselves. They have the chops, they just don’t write memorable songs.
David Wayne (singer on the first two releases) reeks of ex-Exodus’ Steve “Zetro” Souza circa ’86. But Zetro didn’t have Vanderhoof as guitarist and songwriter.
A concept album documenting lead shoutster Todd Chaisson (ex-Tuff!) and his battles with drug addiction. In the vein of Chemlab and labelmates Pissing Razors.
Stuck Mojo manage to make their live document feel like a sun-dappled festival gig in the ’70s. Perfectly crystalline production by long-time bud Andy Sneap.
King and the Knights of the Pentagram-Shaped Table return with 9, the best Mercyful Fate in years. Warmly produced, 9 has an immediacy past records have lacked.
They’ve cooked up the “Stone Temple Pilots’ sound,” which, despite not being terribly original, is better than imitating whatever’s popular at the moment.