Cruel Force is back with a masterful display of speed metal bordering on thrash. They've progressed from the subject matter of Satan and evil they once wrote about back in the black thrash days, but they're still truly underground-sounding, and at the same time a matured band. You can still hear influences like Venom in their guitar work, but it's now much more of a diverse attack, with harmonies, melodies, killer solos, and awesome little fretboard runs. The production is clear and powerful but keeps an underground feel to it with a grittiness that really gives the recording a feeling all its own. I like the direction this band has taken, because they've truly separated themselves in a genre that's overrun with imitators and copycats. Having come a long way stylistically, I think this is a band that finally found its footing and voice, and I'm looking forward to this release when it finally comes out so I can buy it. Look for it on March 27.
