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SADUS Out For Blood Mascot Records (2006)
It was ten years ago, when the American Thrash/Death metal war machine Sadus released their fourth opus "Elements of Anger", and nothing has been heard from then ever since. I have often wondered what forced the band that has recorded classic Thrash metal opuses such as "Certain Death", "Sadus Attack", "In Your Face" and "Slaves to Misery" to remain in such a long state of silence...would Steve DiGiorgio's involvement in numerous band's such as Iced Earth, Testament and Dragonlord be the reason, or a general lack of interest on the part of the remaining two musicians? Well, I really don't know the answer to that question, but little does this matter anymore, because Sadus are finally back!
One thing that I have learned very well over these years is that this amazing trio has little in common with any other average extreme metal outfit, and keeping that in mind, I prepared my self for every possible scenario...well, that's what I thought I did, because what "Out For Blood" managed to do was to sound both familiar and surprising at the same time - the true sign of a unique and quite inspirational release!
The opening track "In The Name Of..." will definitely impress every old school Sadus fan, seeing as it does not only consist of super fast thrashy riffs, but also displays the amazing skills of the four-string wizard Steve DiGiorgio, and presents some of the most paranoid vocals ever to come out from Darren Travis' well-trained lungs. A constant manipulation of rhythm will bring very different emotions to the surface, before the same explosive guitar riff will close the first chapter of this great album. After this great start, it is time for all of us to get introduced to some fresh and new ideas. Steve's contribution in the new album is varied, and the futuristic keyboard theme in "No More" is the proof to that argument. Sadus have brought to life a slow and rhythmical composition that is no less heavy than any of the songs that they have recorded in the past, and together with the oriental guitar and bass scales of "Smackdown" make up some of the most unusual songs that this band has ever recorded.
If the opening track of the album left you thirsty for fast Thrashy riffs, you should definitely check out the same-title composition "Out For Blood", or "Sick" - both of which are typical examples of Sadus' renowned musical aggression. By now, you must be feeling quite worn out, but save some strength for two of the best songs that this band has ever recorded, starting with the amazing "Freedom". It is no coincidence that the main guitar theme and the structure of this composition makes it sound like a leftover track from the recording sessions of "Human", seeing as this song is dedicated in the memory of Chuck Schuldiner (Death - R.I.P). There is plenty of emotion added to this composition, and only those who have lost their soul can claim not to be touched by this brilliant song. The built up rhythm of "Cursed", along with it's beautiful oriental scale and frequent super fast riffs, will also impress those who love all things fast, and finally you may want to check the dark and quite atmospheric "Crazy", seeing as it features Chuck Billy (Testament) on backing vocals.
Looking at all the above, you may think that I am crazy for believing that not enough things have been said about "Out For Blood". What I suggest you do is get your hands on this brilliant album and then you will realise how right I was, and also why it took this trio so long to record a new album. Sadus are out there looking for fresh blood, so you'd better beware!
*****
Review by John Stefanis
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