Savage Messiah - Insurrection Rising

January 8, 2010

Reviewer: Chris

Eighties-style thrash metal is usually done in one of two ways.  First, there are the mediocre bands that figure that using similar production devices for that “kult” sound actually makes the music more relevant somehow - it doesn’t work. The second way is when a band comes along and captures the sound and brilliance of said era and applies a variety of current influences and devices to polish the sound to a fine point, hence making it a pleasure to listen to. For oldsters like me it’s great to hear great production on some of the best sounding metal from my era.

Savage Messiah from the U.K. has issued its first full-length assault, Insurrection Rising, a lesson in modern thrash that is an enjoyable listen all around. The band released a damn good EP, Spitting Venom, in 2007 and this CD is a nice addition to the band’s discography. As I say, it’s a good experience, but I’m not so sure the straight thrash label applies to the band per se. I’m so sick of all of the subgenres muddying already-dark waters that I hate to label the sound with anything other than “metal,” but if forced to explain my impressions in a word or two I’d have to say it’s more of an 80’s power metal (not Helloween or Gamma Ray - think maybe a slightly more technical Megadeth or Exodus) with certain thrash elements. The obligatory gallops are there, the heavy wall of sound and feel of the music hits just where it should and the vocals are a very complementary fix to the style. There are also a few properly-placed slower passages that are a nice stray from the norm, but brief enough to make the switch complimentary as opposed to unwarranted.

Vocally, Dave Silver hits the mark with a vocal presence that’s not usual or typical for such a band. He reminds me of a NWOBHM vocalist finding a good home in, say, Armored Saint. I hear a bit of Dave Mustaine in his delivery, but with a much stronger and even ability. So with Silver singing and playing an additional guitar, the band rounds out with Sy Taplin (guitar), Sasha Cron (bass), and Ernesto Nogara (drums). A very capable band created a very capable CD that has the “power-thrash” thing going for it. Fans of Master of Puppets will especially like “Vigil of the Navigator” as it screams “Leper Messiah” through the mid-section. Again, not at all a detriment; when you think good power-thrash from the 80’s, Metallica had the playbook under lock and key.

Lyrically, some mature writing that’s both relevant and interesting. It’s so easy to fall into pedestrian lyrical comfort zones, but Savage Messiah avoids that. The aforementioned “Vigil” and “Silent Empire” are my favorite tracks, and I hope you give these guys a chance. “Silent Empire” rings of a power thrash-like Scorpions, and before you rush to roll your eyes give it a listen!

Overall a solid piece of metal mayhem that is enjoyable and as solid as they come. 

Release Date: September, 2009
Label: Candlelight Records 

TRACK LISTING

1.  Insurrection Rising
2.  Corruption X
3.  In Absence of Liberty
4.  The Serpent Tongue of Divinity
5.  Vigil of the Navigator
6.  Enemy Image (Dehumanization)
7.  Silent Empire
8.  The Nihilist Machine
9.  He Who Laughs Last

Total playing time: 43:20

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