Rating: 8.5 / 10 Stars
SEAX is: Carmine Blades – Vocals, Hel – Guitar, Razzle – Guitar, Derek Jay – Drums, Nick – Bass(Album), Christiano Lobo – Bass
REVIEW – “Fallout Rituals” by SEAX stands as a formidable testament to the enduring appeal of speed metal, bristling with an energy that is both nostalgic and refreshingly novel. From the opening notes, the album launches into a high-octane journey, marked by relentless speed, raw power, and an unyielding grip on the genre’s roots.
The band, fronted by the dynamic vocal force of Carmine Blades, backed by guitarists Hel and Razzle, and driven by the rhythmic prowess of drummer Derek Jay and bassists Nick and Christiano Lobo, delivers a sound that is unapologetically fast and furious. The opening tracks, “Rituals” and “Killed By Speed,” set a breakneck pace, showcasing SEAX‘s ability to craft songs that are as exhilarating as they are compelling. Blades’ vocal range, alternating between midrange growls and piercing high notes, adds a distinctive edge to the album’s sound.
Tracks like “Bring Down The Beast” and “Feed The Reaper” are emblematic of the album’s approach, blending chainsaw riffs and thundering beats with screaming vocals that demand attention. The album’s production, while staying true to the raw energy of the genre, manages to clearly showcase each instrument, creating a well-rounded auditory experience.
The influences of speed metal pioneers like Exciter and Agent Steel are palpable throughout the album. However, SEAX infuses these inspirations with their unique flair. Songs like “Interceptor” and “Legions Arise” not only pay homage to the genre’s past but also assert the band’s place within its evolving narrative. The album’s consistent post-apocalyptic theme, introduced in “Rituals” and echoed throughout, adds a conceptual depth that enhances its replay value.
The guitar work on the album deserves special mention. Hel and Razzle deliver relentless energy and chaotic solos that keep the listener on the edge. The unison gang vocals, especially in tracks like “Killed by Speed” and “Born To Live Fast,” offer an infectious quality that makes these songs likely future setlist favorites.
“Fallout Rituals” culminates with “Born To Live Fast,” a track that encapsulates the essence of the album – a call to arms for speed metal enthusiasts. This track, along with others like “Winds of Atomic Death,” showcases SEAX‘s ability to blend speed and melody in a way that is both aggressive and catchy.
In sum, “Fallout Rituals” is a high-octane thrill ride through the realms of speed metal. It is an album that, while deeply rooted in the genre’s traditions, demonstrates SEAX‘s ability to bring something fresh and exciting to the table. This album is a must-listen for fans of the genre and serves as a powerful reminder of why speed metal continues to captivate audiences. Rating this exhilarating escapade at 8.5 out of 10 stars seems fitting, as it aptly reflects the album’s ferocious energy and its adept homage to the speed metal legacy.
