Sound: The second coming of Testament – breakneck thrash rhythms, crunchy and creepy riffs, fleet-fingered fretwork and a bruising, guttural scowl with a good sense of melody. Trivium distinguish themselves, though, with more harmonies and the occasional poppy and uplifting chorus…a surprising twist for the genre.
Lyrics: Bleak, angry and unsettling descriptions of war, brutality, inhumanity and intolerance. The disturbing details of these atrocities often evolve into a crusade for justice, empowerment and survival…again, an unexpectedly positive outlook for thrash.
Heavy Rotation track: “Entrance of the Conflagration”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Contempt Breeds Contamination”; “Unrepentant”; “This World Can’t Tear Us Apart”; “Detonation”
Explicit Lyrics*: “Anthem (We Are the Fire)”; “To the Rats”
Recommended: For fans of classic thrash there’s so much to love - a great growler (as opposed to an atonal screamer) who barks out meaningful lyrics and a tight, highly proficient band. The only problem is they’re a little short on top-notch, memorable songs, and their couple obvious attempts at rally-cry anthems feel a little silly. But with The Crusade, Trivium have established themselves as a premier metal band with major potential.
Grade: B+

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* Noting of explicit lyrics is for the benefit of radio music directors or anyone else that needs/wants to keep their music FCC-friendly.