Morbid Saint – Swallowed By Hell

Anyone knowing me for long time knows that a classic thrash has always been one of my favorite metal genres, especially during the golden era of thrash metal, from 1984 to 1994. It was also time when Wisconsin-based thrash metal act Morbid Saint had its initial run. Already back in 1994, I felt as the band left with an unfinished job, as they weren’t even close to having the final word. Luckily, after 15 years, the core members reunited in 2010, and now their long awaited new album entitled Swallowed By Hell has been released by High Roller Records.

Swallowed By Hell contains 10 brand new tracks of pure old-school thrash metal with some death metal elements. Not only do I think that Swallowed By Hell a very good record, but I also think that this line-up, is the best line-up ever! It consists of Pat Lind (vocals), Jay Visser (guitar), Jim Fergades (guitar), Bob Zabel (bass) and DJ Bagemehl (drums). Swallowed By Hell is the result of a creative exchange between all five members of the band.

“Rise from the Ashes” is relentless and lengthy opener, very reminiscent of the Kreator and Destruction early vibe. The raging title track is next sonic attack with edgy riffs, pounding drums and screaming/roaring vocals. Another high-octane intense thrash monster is the following “Bloody Floors”. “Burn Pits” continues more or less in the same manner, while “Fear Incarnate” comes with brutal riffs and overwhelming sounds of drums and bass. “Fuck Them All” features some memorable chainsaw riffs and straining vocals. Next “Bleed Them Dry” is another adrenaline-pumping and lively song with a badass bass intro. “Pine Tuxedo” is a bit different track, mainly due to some melody and pretty solid soloing, adding more variety to the overall uncompromising and intense sound. Intense and galloping sounds of “Killer Instinct” provides a perfect build-up for the grand-finale of the album closer “Psychosis”, which is a five-and-a-half minute long and yet the most brutal track on the album. Numerous tempo changes and unique galloping riffs give this song more character.

In conclusion; the album’s duration is at app. 47 minutes which is packed with high-octane death/thrash metal. Overall, I’m glad to see that one band from my teens is back, still as nasty, savage and uncompromising as they (three founding members ) were 35 years back. Having said so it doesn’t feel or sound like a band stuck in the past. On the contrary, the tracks feel vibrant, fresh and modern. Official video clip for self-titled “Swallowed By Hell” is best proof of their own trademark and unique unrelenting approach to thrash/death metal. Thus, Swallowed By Hell is a very nice and mature hard-hitting comeback album from the veteran thrash quintet. Esp. recommended for fans of Kreator, Exodus, Destruction, Demolition and similar thrash giants.

For additional info on the band from Wisconsin and their latest material go to https://morbidsaint.com/