MELIAH RAGE are a (very well done) combined Thrash / Heavy Metal band from Boston, MA – sounding like a Thrashy version of
JUDAS PRIEST. With similarities noticeable to
IRON MAIDEN (
Paul Di'Anno I would imagine, with a hint of
Bruce Dickenson)
Mark Mastroianni and
Mike Munro perform some highly intense screams and yells which - really suits these kind of genres, but of course. On top of rich riffs from
Anthony Nichols and
Jim Koury - this makes it a fine combination. Speaking of combination… “
Before The Kill” is a release comprised of a wealth of previously unreleased tracks, including early Demos and Live songs. I prefer extras in a compilation, not just another “best of” album – makes it a worthy purchase for the hardcore veterans who own every album… If it was me, I would sell this as an album for newcomers looking for a new band; and if you are already a fan - for the added bonuses.
The sound quality is raw and dirty, being that the tracks are either rehearsals, demos or live recordings, but it still kicks a lot of arse and that's the main thing. “
Before The Kill” has some great songs for newcomers (like me), “
Enter The Darkness” (also a demo included) was particularly enjoyable; killing it with those epic riffs and vocals; powerful bass and drums! “
Fight” also showcases some of the finer – inner Thrash capabilities and “
The Pack” performs some fine headbanging moments and riffs.
“
Before The Kill” lasts just over an hour and 10 minutes, so if you're looking for something new to expand your Metal horizons; or are just a big fan of
MELIAH RAGE and are craving those extra Demos and Live songs as “new material” (even though the album
“Warrior” came out in 2014, but I understand cravings)
, this would definitely be worth the purchase in my opinion. Just the sound production is a bit off so, might put off newcomers a little bit.
The Demos sounded a bit scratchy and blocked one of my ears at one point; but recovered it self now and then… They are just Demos though, I should keep in mind; the Live tracks had a similar effect too - it's still a nice bit of history for the hardcore fans to own, though. Nonetheless…
MELIAH RAGE are in their prime, releasing this compilation at the right time – it has something for every metalhead.
Check it out.