Here's a band from Kentucky who really have the 80's thrash scene down pat. Commander's debut album Altar of Bones brings to mind such heavyweights as Slayer, Testament, Exodus, and of course Pantera, right down to Chris Hightower's Anselmo-like delivery. For a young band, these guys certainly have plenty of presence and talent, and are tight as hell. Listening to tunes like "Decree of Pain", "Empty the Catacombs", and the pummeling title track, show Commander capable of laying down plenty of intricate guitar riffs and pounding rhythms, although the drums are a little lost in the mix here, overshadowed by the crunchy & crisp guitar work and Hightower's "commanding" vocal style. Everything here is a great homage to 80's thrash, right down to the song titles, which include such gems as "Coils of Medusa", "666 Steps", and "Demonic Tutor". One look at the band photos and you would instantly judge Commander of being some sort of metalcore band, but look past the look, and groove to some serious old school styled thrash that shows lots of promise. I expect some metal labels will be knocking on their door very soon.
Track Listing
1. Mountain
2. Decree of Pain
3. Coils of Medusa
4. Blood Funnel
5. Fatal Blow
6. Royal Assassin
7. 666 Steps
8. Demonic Tutor
9. Temporary Insanity
10. Empty the Catacombs
11. Altar of Bones
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