Iron Slaught's 'Metallic Torments' is a thrilling journey through the realms of heavy and speed metal, blending the raw energy of 80s Germanic thrash with the spice of black and death metal. The album's title itself is a clever play on words, hinting at the intense and tormented sounds that await the listener. This French duo, despite their quirky name, delivers an album that is both ambitious and entertaining, showcasing their unique blend of musical influences.
The album opens with an instrumental introduction, setting the stage for the fast-paced and aggressive 'Ghastly Obsession'. This track is a wild ride, with catchy melodic leads that evoke the spirit of Running Wild and Forefather. The song's energy is infectious, and it's easy to see why it would bring the privateers to the YARRRRd. 'The Executioner' follows suit, blending blackened thrash with 80s heavy metal bravado, and the guitar work, reminiscent of Mercyful Fate, adds a touch of classic metal flair.
'Soldier of Fortune' is an 80s gold anthem, filled with fist-pumping energy and wild guitar pyrotechnics. The clean vocals, though not always great, effectively sell the product, adding a layer of accessibility to the album. The album's French tracks, 'Condamné Pour L’Éternité' and 'Charme Funeste', showcase the band's versatility, despite the language barrier for non-French speakers.
The album's highlight is undoubtedly 'Fatal Retaliations', an 8-minute epic that reaches Desaster levels of blackened thrash. The song's chaotic energy and competing Grave Digger vibe create a loony and amusingly over-the-top experience. The album's overall composition is impressive, with no tracks tanking and only minor issues with bloatage, ensuring a consistent and engaging listen.
Iron Jérémy's guitar work is a standout, showcasing his impressive fretboard skills and ability to craft memorable riffs. His thrash bellows and blackened rasps are solid and effective, and he pulls off clean singing with more success than not. Partner-in-grime Nikrass provides a solid foundational rumble on bass, even if he isn't always audible amid the mayhem. The drums, though programmed, are well-executed, adding to the album's overall rhythm.
'Metallic Torments' is an unsung gem, punching above its weight and elevating the metal mood. It's easy to digest, high-octane, and ambitious enough to surprise. Despite the quirky name, Iron Slaught knows how to bring the metal to the masses, and they do so with style and energy. This album is a must-listen for fans of heavy and speed metal, offering a thrilling and memorable experience.
