This is definitely one of the best and certainly most powerful albums I've heard so far this year. Firstly, I adored the intro, I actually put down my drink to appreciate the build up. As it blasts into the first main track "Born For War", I was hooked. The first track is actually reminiscent of Machine Head, but with this serious heaviness that gives the same incomparable raw energy that you usually only get from live band. I was genuinely impressed by this album; it seems to explode out of your speakers from the first listen. When you consider that "Onslaught" have been around since 1982/3, the change in their sound is just so vast, it's actually worth looking up their old demos to compare how this band have advanced from a typical Discharge sound-a-like punk band, to creating some of the most insanely technical thrash. What I particularly liked about this album, is the fact it they are able to play incredibly complicated songs, without it sounding like they're trying too hard to show off. "Sounds of violence" is a perfect name for the album, the sheer force of flawless drums and fretwork doesn't falter at any point, from beginning to end it's a massive sound.

For an album of its genre, I was particularly impressed, as I find that thrash metal is often too conservative, never allowing bands to truly stand out with originality. "Sounds of Violence", however, is a seriously well crafted piece of work. The subtle drop-outs and variations in sound keep this from being a "run of the mill" thrash album. I'm a big fan of the vocals, there's something nicely different about Sy Keeler's voice and his impressive range. There are also slight elements of their original punk roots, evident in tracks "Godhead", whilst the fabulous opening to "Antithesist" embraces a slick guitar driven groove. Seriously, this album makes me want to go out and punch people in the face. Love it.


Album rating: 9/10
Best tracks: Born For War, Godhead, The Sound Of Violence
For fans of: Suffocation, Napalm Death, Machine Head