Warbeast: Enter the Arena

This album marks Warbeast's 10 year anniversary. It also marks a dramatic end for the band. Just after the release, singer Bruce Corbitt announced that he was not only diagnosed with esophageal cancer but that his doctors recommend that he no longer perform. In a Facebook post, Corbitt wrote, "So it breaks my heart at this time that I'm forced to announce my retirement from singing. I'm sorry to all of my bandmates for letting them down. I'm devastated with all of this hitting me so fast. I'm still in shock. Thanks for all of the great support all these years. You're the best fans and I love all of you!" His statement goes on to discuss his fears, his hopes, and his gratitude. He played his last show on Saturday, May 27. Warbeast disbanded shortly thereafter. We wish Corbitt all the best.

As for Enter the Arena, the cover art captures the overall mood perfectly. This is an album that is heavy, hard, fully equipped, and ready for battle. Once in the arena, the band hits hard and fights until the end. The band, formed in the Texas metal underground, blended thrash, punk, and attitude in ways that kept the spirit of old-school thrash alive without ever sounding derivative. With this album, the band brings two new musicians into the fold: Drew Shoup (guitar) and Lyric Ferchaud (bass). Joining them are Joey Gonzalez (drums), Bruce Corbitt (vocals) and Scott Shelby (guitar). Together, the band sounds great. I was especially impressed with the guitar playing. The harmonies are awesome and the solos impressive. I could hardly keep up with Gonzalez's drumming. He hits and hits and hits, infusing life into everything. Corbitt's vocals are also very strong—a fitting reminder of his overall talent. In my view, this is a fitting closing statement from a talented band. Check out "Orchestration of Violence," "Maze of the Minotaur," and "The Scalping."

Track Listing:
1. Centuries of Poisoned Soul
2. Punishment for Gluttony
3. Orchestration of Violence
4. Maze of the Minotaur
5. Hitchhiker
6. Chemicals Consuming
7. Enter the Arena
8. The Scalping
9. Conjuration with the Devil
10. Ancient Hate

Added: September 28th 2017
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 1370
Language: english

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