The Lithuanian Night Slasher is a a new kid on the block, having formed (as Night Slasher) in 2023. Previously, the foursome was known as Alcotopia and released one album, ‘It Hits the Spot’ in 2019.
Night Slasher is a speed/thrash metal band with some (proto) black metal influences in their sound. From the first track, ‘Ice’ there’s a barrage of thrash riffs coming your way, accompanied by the occasional solo as is traditional in this genre. The riffs range from melodic and memorable to straight of viscious. Night Slasher isn’t the most innovative band out there (which is rare in itself in this subgenre) but delivers a more than competent record.
Considering there’s no physical release of this album, save for ordering it from the band itself on CD-R, the production quality is excellent. All instruments can clearly be heard and have adequate separation. The guitars are gritty yet clear, the bass punchy and the drums and cymbals offer a nice backdrop to the sound.
The albums offers nine songs, totaling to about 40 minutes. Even though most songs are high paced, there are some resting points within. Liver Ripper is one of those, drawing you in with a slow, moody,dark and creepy guitar progression and some agonizing vocals. After about 90 seconds, the band decides you’ve had enough and pushes back on the gas pedal to deliver a speedy, frantic song.
After getting about halfway, I must say that ‘Pit of Hate’ lost my attention somewhat. At this point you get the feeling the songs melt together a bit too much, causing some fatigue and distraction.
Night Slasher offers a more than adequate album, especially for fans of some blackened thrash metal, which seems to have a major resurgeance the past couple of years.
Score: 79/100
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