Originally published at http://suite101.com
Thanks to a certain documentary that came out in 2008, Anvil has been riding a wave of critical and commercial success that had long evaded them throughout their three decades of activity. But not content with just touring with AC/DC and Saxon, the band has also released their first studio album since This Is Thirteen was issued in 2007. Juggernaut of Justice brings about several new elements to the band's overall dynamics and greatly improves those that were already there. Not only is it a powerful sign of a continuing renaissance, but it was also recorded in the studio of Foo Fighters mainman Dave Grohl and handled by Alice Cooper/Tony Iommi producer Bob Marlette.
While I have only listened to a small handful of previous songs prior to getting this album, I can safely say that it isn't too far removed from the band's typical Judas Priest meets Motorhead sound. However, this album does seems to stand out thanks to a particularly polished production job that manages to give the songs a great deal of strength.
Also strengthened on this album are the performances issued by the musicians involved. Drummer Robb Reiner puts on a series of powerful poundings that put most extreme metal drummers to shame, making one wonder how he came to be so underrated. In addition, bassist Glenn Five seems to stand out more than he had previously and even performs the lead vocals on the Mercyful Fate-esque "This Ride."
But the member that seems to show the most improvement on this album is actually guitarist/vocalist Steve "Lips" Kudlow himself. While he has never showed any weakness in his guitar playing, his sometimes strained vocals have always been an acquired taste. However, he seems to show more confidence as a singer this time around and manages to sound like a completely new guy while still retaining some gruffness.
As expected by a band that was influential in the formation of the thrash and power metal genres, most of the songs on here seem to go between intense speed metal numbers and upbeat rockers. Of these tracks, the title song is an excellent opening anthem while the fast-paced "On Fire" may be the album's best track with its intense tempos and slight influence from Deep Purple's "Burn." Also worth noting is the amusingly titled "F*cken Eh," which throws in some nice gang vocals during the chorus to go along with the tongue-in-cheek Canadian pride.
The album is also noteworthy for the inclusion of "New Orleans Voodoo" and "Paranormal," two tracks that bring about slower tempos and more occult-oriented lyrics. While the lyrics on these tracks (along with the others on this album) are on the corny side, the former track is a doomy highlight with some crunchy riffs while the latter seems to show more of the band's complex end.
But the strangest and most noteworthy track is "Swing Thing," a closing instrumental that flirts with jazz structures and even brings about a nicely integrated horn section. While some may find the piece to be an odd experiment likely put on as filler, I actually hope they do more with this sound in the future. After all, Riot did prove back in the early '90s that horns can have a place in heavy metal.
Overall, one could say that this album is an incredibly pleasant surprise that proves the band's worth beyond the perseverance that was displayed in their breakthrough film. There are plenty of moments that are sure to remind listeners of more successful bands such as Judas Priest and Accept, but the songwriting definitely makes up for any derivative feelings. And with the polished touches and relative accessibility, this album may not be a bad first purchase for the uninitiated Anvil fan. Of course, you'd also do a great deal of good by looking into Metal On Metal, Forged In Fire, or any of their other awesomely alliterated titles. There's plenty out there to choose from.
Album Highlights
"Juggernaut of Justice"
"When Hell Breaks Loose"
"New Orleans Voodoo"
"On Fire"
"Swing Thing"