Evildead – United States of Anarchy

Back in the late 80s when California and New York were spawning the thrash bands that went on to dominate the genre – Metallica, Exodus, Anthrax etc, one California band, Evildead was formed. Their first gig was alongside Dark Angel, Cryptic slaughter and Possessed in 1987 and they released an EP the next year. They released three albums before disbanding in 1992, and have been largely forgotten by thrash fans despite a briief reunion from 2009-2012. That’s about to change though as they’ve reformed and have a new album – United states of anarchy, and it’s sounding pretty damn good.

There’s a strong old-school thrash feel to it, and it’s got a real angry feel to it which is understandable when part of the album is about US politics (and there’s plenty about the state of politics to get people angry).

Check out the first single (and also the first track on the album), “The Descending”…

“No difference” throws a real curve-ball at the listener, as the relentless powerful thrash of the first 5 tracks is replaced by a…JAZZ intro. It’s definitely something that makes you sit up and take notice and think “What the fuck is going on” just as the intro ends and the guitars kick in and bring us back to familiar ground, Thrash metal.

Is there anything new and groundbreaking here? No. Is it a strong thrash album that’s well worth a listen? Definitely. If you’re an old school thrash fan then this album is one you’re almost certainly going to enjoy.

“United States of Anarchy” is out now.

Track listing:

1. The descending
2. Word of god
3. Napoleon complex
4. Greenhouse
5. Without a cause
6. No difference
7. Blasphemy divine
8. A.O.P / War Dance
9. Seed of doubt