In a scene cluttered with bands jumping on the metalcore bandwagon or trying to sound like Killswitch Engage 2.0 with death/clean vocals, you have Black Thorn Halo – a metal band that reminds us what metal is supposed to sound like. Their latest release, “Deadline”, is packed with 8 pummeling tracks of unapologetic thrash that harkens back to the classic thrash era of the mid-‘80s, a sound many bands claim to achieve but so few do. From the cavernous roar of opener Moving Forward to bassist Jack Krupinski’s intricate intro on Ready to Fight, the listener’s head remains in constant headbanging mode. Vocalist Rafael Lopez doesn’t just have a stupendous growl – which, fortunately, he uses on most of the tracks on the CD – he is also easy to understand. When was the last time you heard a metal CD and could make out all the words? There’s no lyric sheet, but for once, none is needed.Only One has it all – a great intro, Rafa’s perfect growl, rhythm changes, thunderous drums and a slightly doomy feel to boot. Staples and Roadrash is a fun ditty about, well, not hard to guess.
“Deadline” is chock-full of original intros, licks and solos, with guitarist Craig Leach expertly tackling both lead and rhythm duties. The BTH sound wouldn’t be complete without the relentless pounding of drummer Eric Mulero, who never lets up the intensity. This is a must-own CD for your collection.
Song standouts are Moving Forward, Ready to Fight, Only One (featuring guest vocals by Jason McMaster) and Staples and Roadrash."