Chemistry of Consciousness
Relapse Records
2013
Portland Oregon’s, Toxic Holocaust have been a jewel in the “thrash revival crown”. Maintaining an rebelliously effective DIY attitude, vocalist Joel Grind and co. have been churning out potent albums of speed, thrash and black metal elements into a cohesive blend of audible fury! Enter this year’s, Chemistry of Consciousness, and the group find themselves in the same pole position.
Immediately, the album strikes an effective blow with Awaken the Serpent, which displays all the rapture and virulence fans will no doubt salivate over. Silence continues the momentum and recalls Motörhead’s classic, Overkill both in pounding aggression and blistering guitar solo. Acid Fuzz also calls to mind vintage Motörhead, even long after the song is done, the main riff will be tough to forget! Point of reference, Slayer, makes an appearance too on Salvation is Waiting and Deny the Truth. Both imbue a heady dose of vicious thrash streamlined with refined purpose.
Slower, mid-paced selections, Rat Eater and Out of the Fire (released on youtube by Relapse Records), show Toxic Holocaust’s steady rhythm section, maintained by catchy verses and unfortunately, one-dimensional drumming. If there is one fatal flaw on Chemistry of Consciousness, it’s the drumming. On most songs, the drums play a very dull, predictable and tedious pattern. Nikki Bellmore doesn’t add any twists or turns to his performance, but languishes incessantly with standard meter. However, what allows this album to work are the riffs and rhythms that stand out, particularly on Acid Fuzz.
Featuring a back to their “roots” styling, Chemistry of Consciousness shows a resurgence of the band’s old logo and colourful album cover art, which may be a sigh of relief to some purists. The album is not entirely lost on its disappointments, as many of the numbers can attest. Continuing the palpable energy Toxic Holocaust have been known for, their brand of “punky, black metal/thrash” will only deepen the love fans have for this U.S. band and draw attention from the uninitiated, if they can get past the drumming.
Standout Tracks: Awaken the Serpent, Rat Eater, Salvation is Waiting, Acid Fuzz
7.5/10
Chris
