DESASTER - 666 - Satan's Soldiers Syndicate LP (Black Vinyl)

There’s an aura of sheer authenticity and a workmanlike approach about this band that simply commands respect and makes you want to like them, whether black metal or blackened thrash is precisely your cup of tea or not. Perfectly competent – not virtuosic, but that’s hardly needed – musical delivery, convincing and surprisingly varied songs, which are carried by hellish riff infernos and laden with memorable moments, coupled with a very fitting and, again, authentic production neither too modern nor too “vintage”, combine to make for an excellent record that’s highly recommendable and surprisingly addictive. Basically the only minor gripe I have with this album is that at just over 37 minutes, it’s somewhat on the short side, but I guess that’s easily forgivable considering you’ll likely find yourself listening to this gem multiple times a day anyway …