Artillery - Penalty By Perception
34 years after forming, Artillery show they still have a passion for thrash
With the sort of crashing guitars that would make even Thor headbang, Artillery's thrash riffs, brought by brothers Michael and Morten Stützer, are the source of the band's thunderous sound.
The guitars are loud and heavy, but vocalist Michael Bastholm Dahl applies a more radio-friendly aspect in his soaring vocals. This juxtaposition of thick riffs and Dahl's wailing technique makes for some of Artillery's best work to date, with the speed of songs like title-track 'Penalty By Perception' bringing chaotic moments to please diehard metalheads, while tracks like 'Live By The Scythe' bring undeniably infectious choruses that beg for loud sing-alongs.
'When The Magic Is Gone' shows a slower side to the band, and although its emotional semi-ballad sentiment is nothing you haven't heard before, the guitar solo is mesmerizing. Elsewhere, 'Cosmic Brain' is unapologetically predictable, and follows a handful of tracks that are simply more interesting than it.
Thankfully, we see some of the band's most impressive work in following tracks 'Deity Machine' and 'Path Of The Atheist'. The less speedy tempo of the latter makes for an impressive display of musicianship, differing from the chaotic assault found elsewhere on the album.
A couple of predictable moments aside, Penalty By Perception is an impressive album that benefits from a clever balance of heavy and commercial aspects.
7/10
Penalty By Perception is out March 25 via Metal Blade Records
