Sharp Magik Steel

Colombia has always been a country with some of the best underground speed metal, now Reckless spawn their first album. Will this add to the countries legendary obscure records? Read on to find out!

Melodic guitars soar into life with that classic feeling that then launches into some killer riffs and tom fills with merciless speed ensuing. The blend of tight and busy drumming with malicious riffs is met viciously snarled vocals, speeding together into armageddon. With such formidable musicianship and gripping songwriting, it is easy to instantly fall in love with the razor sharp axe that Reckless swing down upon you from the onset. Their brand of battery harkens back to the greats while keeping the blend relatively unique (though fans of Vulture, Cruel Force and the like will certainly be predisposed to love this record). Naturally the 80s aesthetic and vibe shine through, while offering more than mere nostalgia, this thing is violent and feisty yet full of classic and anthemic moments. We are off to a very strong start.

Masterful sonic artillery seems ceaseless as riff after riff of pure molten iron is delivered atop waves of impeccable drumming. The leads are equally scolding, with some sublime melodies and cutting shreds shining through. Everything on display is tied together with killer songwriting and a massive production that allows every booming, roaring hit of speed metal fury to be heard with precision. Surging with energy, this thing just feels so damn furious, like it is always running on all cylinders while never tiring. The blade is never dulled, only the most maliciously wicked incisions delivered at any given moment. The seamless concoction of heavy, speed and thrash metal blends venomous rage and high-speed chaos with those more classic, glory-bound motifs of the early days. However you approach this thing, it will chew you up and spit you out, and you will love it.

Stomping and thrashing up until the end, there shall be none spared by the swing of the axe. The full running time is an engaging and easy to be gripped by feast of pure metallic wrath. It would be a struggle to find anything a real headbanger would not love, and while nothing is exactly new, can that be a bad thing when the songs are so magnificent and vibrantly passionate with a strong penchant for the old school? I don’t think so… On the contrary, this kind of material just rips and does everything it promises without an iota of compromise. You can look at the cover and know exactly what you are in for, and if that isn’t your thing, I’m surprised you are even reading this review. If, however, you felt compelled by the image of a gauntlet-clad axeman cutting through chains, you will likely be in the legion who hear this and involuntarily bang your head to its pummelling furore. These maniacs definitely kneel before the gods of old, so prepare to wake up screaming after being neutralised by a glittering death. Reckless are coming for you…

A tasteful and merciless cut of excellent speed metal. This Colombian horde make their first step a mighty and bold one, bringing down the boot on the skulls of any posers in sight. If you like your music ripping, aggressive, catchy and yet with plenty of melody and skill; blast “Sharp Magik Steel” because that is exactly what it sounds like. True metallic vengeance that shows no mercy.

Written for www.nattskog.wordpress.com