The Curse Of Martha Splatterhead

First things first: this incarnation of the Accused features exactly one original member -- guitarist Tommy Niemeyer, a co-founder of the band who left to join Gruntruck after this outfit's last album, 1992's Splatter Rock. That being said, it's easy to draw a straight line, sonically speaking, between The Curse of Martha Splatterhead and the late-'80s discs that made the Accused's name in the thrash/hardcore underground. They're still blazing through songs in 90 seconds, maybe stretching it to three minutes if they're feeling particularly epic (as on album closer "Splatter Rock II"). The music will definitely appeal to those who like their thrash primitive and old-school; current vocalist Brad Mowen sounds like he's trying to spit out a mouthful of insects with every line, as bassist Dorando and drummer Mike Peterson crank out punky rhythms behind him and Niemeyer's riffs recall D.R.I. (and their modern-day clones, Municipal Waste, for youngsters) as much as the Accused's own back catalog. The bits of sampled horror-movie dialogue that introduce various songs are another vintage touch. Though the songs are pretty damn good, this is far from an essential album even for old-school Accused fans, but it'll probably make them bang their heads happily as they drive the kids to school. ~ Phil Freeman|