Spitting Venom

Savage Messiah's 2007 debut release, Spitting Venom, is as indie as indie gets; yet, ironically, their intensely melodic brand of thrash is arguably more imaginative and dynamically versatile than that of many, more experienced, and better funded thrashing contemporaries. More original, too (if such a term can be used in reference to such a retro-inspired style), since there are more than enough Slayer and Exodus disciples doing the rounds (Evile, Bonded by Blood, Fueled by Fire, etc., etc.), but not nearly enough new acts basing their style on Testament, Megadeth and, heck, why not say it, Metallica. Like most of their neo-thrash peers, Savage Messiah are still quite a ways away from achieving such lofty heights, of course, but that's no reason to overlook the fine thrashing qualities displayed by a memorable, refreshingly immediate opening triplet comprised of the title track, "Frontline," and "Servant to Your Death." Just a little while later the band proves that they also think beyond thrash with a classy classic metal number called "Conspiracy in Silence" (think Priest, Maiden, etc.), but the album's production standards sometimes let the side down -- primarily during softer passages (like the dramatic mid-section of an otherwise excellent "Heavens Gate") and spats of weak-sounding drums (which hamper would-be pile-drivers "W.D.U." and "In for the Kill"). In all cases, the likely culprits were probably a shortage of funds and studio time -- not to mention bandleader Dave Silver having to handle all vocals, guitars and bass -- but bonus cut "In Cold Blood" shows what improved sonics could do for the band next time around, and it shouldn't be long before Savage Messiah are signed to a more supportive label infrastructure. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia|