Tormentor - Morbid Realization

Share this on Facebook | Share this on Twitter

Metal maniacs, rejoice! The Thrasher returns to present to you: TORMENTOR; signed via Iron Shield Records, hailing from the glory of Germany - performing Thrash Metal, on their 2^nd album entitled “Morbid Realization” (released March 17^th, 2017).

Since formation in 2006; the quintet in question have 1 album behind them, I'm introduced to their 2^nd deliverance - “Morbid Realization”. Consisting of 10 extensive tracks; ranging at around 42:27, TORMENTOR incorporate a very progressive start with the opening song “Hope”. Until the thrashing assault begins with “Kill With No Excuse”; I immediately discover an influential type of formula to that of the leading Big Teutonic 4 members - KREATOR. This should not come as a surprise with one of the said quartet's songs being “Tormentor” (from the album “Endless Pain”), even the titular track has a lyric from the TYRANT era. Having been listening to this band in preparation for Bloodstock 2017, this discovery is very much welcome. Max on vocals/lead guitars impersonates Mille Petrozza ingeniously well, and the lyricism is notably indistinguishable too. The musicianship is chaotic, full of galloping grooves and gritty barking - the lyrics from titular track “GET MORBID NOW” is a clear indication of perfect imitation and mimicry.

“Comprehension Failed” is the shortest song at 2:17; yet is sharp and showcases consistently driven songwriting that's not exactly original but delightfully memorable, the sound production measures up and has a unique adroitness that demonstrates an intricate formulaic in design. Kevin on rhythm guitars formulates captivating adaptation with finely-crafted fretwork, constructively embellishing in divinity.

“Burning Empire” starts with an mid-tempo groove, full of succulent low-tempo solos and hard-hitting elegance. The powerhouse from Heiko on bass & Thomas on drums compile exquisite sound production adroitness, where the next track “Endless Emptiness” has a very resembled opening riff that MANOWAR embellish with - comparable to that of say “Blood Of My Enemies”. It sounds solid and powerful until more thrashing madness ensues. “Forgotten” compiles more mid-tempo proficiency that has a substantial amount of oomph, galloping pummelling and prominence that will guarantee your thrashing needs. There is a diligently executed sense of enlightenment in “Lurks In The Dark” full of stimulating exertion and fulfilling enjoyment, the vehemence in this production is undoubtedly impeccable - all instruments sound fine and the craftsmanship is satisfying.

If anything “Morbid Realization” is a perfect tribute to the thrash masters - KREATOR. “Walk Past Myself” manifests with an organic aesthetic in rhythm timing, and a unique substance that has a complexing yet dextrous efficiency to it that sounds sufficiently rewarding. “Path To The Dark Side” shows TORMENTOR revive the old-school Teutonic Thrash Metal days with a record for the 21^st century (not that we already have DESTRUCTION, SODOM etc, but more bands are most definitely welcoming). Overall – I relished listening to this record, having distinct comparisons to the aforementioned, this was most certainly a record that had the eye-catching and surprising factor in full effect. It's not “Gods Of Violence” material; more a revival in the “Pleasure To Kill”, “Terrible Certainty” era, so if you are a fan of those records - I urge you to check out this gem, and witness beneficial results…while going nuts!

Songwriting: 8
Originality: 7
Memorability: 8
Production: 9