Exodus is a thrash band that much like Slayer you know what you’re getting with every release. Blood in Blood Out is pretty much a typical Exodus album in that it sticks to what the band does best and that has kept them in the upper realms; chasing the pack of the big four.
Personally I think they are worthy of a place in the big four, but hey that might be asking for too much. Exodus’s new release sees them reunited with Zetro, the singer whom I really associate with Exodus (taking nothing away from Rob Dukes). Exodus thrive on big riffs and tight musicianship and this album see’s them in their usual territory. When Exodus have the big riff going on they drag it out to maximum effect and whilst the riffs are great, sometimes I feel that they could cut them a bit shorter.
In saying that though, Blood in Blood Out is a welcome return to form. It certainly won’t disappoint the Exodus faithful and will attract new followers. Opener “Black13” is a nice pacy opener albeit with a minute of build up. The title track is full of riffs groove and great soloing. Talking of reuniting “Salt the Wound” sees a certain Mr Hammett in a lead duel with Mr Holt and the main riff has a Scar spangled feel to it (no bad thing). “The Last Nerve” really grabbed my ear with a latter half that had riffs that really did grab my attention. “Numb” and “Honour Killings” continued to provide some great riff moments whilst closer “Food For The Worms” does indeed bare testimony to the declarations that this is probably the fastest album Exodus have put out (in places at least).
So overall a very good album that will not disappoint existing Exodus fans out there with its quality songs and a fantastic production that allows the whole band to shine through. Welcome back Exodus.
Meathook Mike, HMS
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