Review ZERRE “Scorched Souls”

Zerre is an interesting band hailing from Würzburg, Germany. The guys started in 2012 with a musical focus on hardcore and punk. They released two albums, “Our Inner Wasteland” and “Different Lines,” but disbanded in 2017. Five years later, in 2022, Zerre returned and changed their focus a bit. Their current music still includes some hardcore references, but thrash metal is now the dominant genre.

Their recent release, “Scorched Souls,” is a clear indication that the band is now fully immersed in this aggressive sound, often compared to bands like Power Trip. This comparison is an accurate reflection of the band’s current direction and musical compass. Zerre are rooted in thrash metal from the late 80s, and they deliver massive riffs pointing to some Bay Area trailblazers. I can e.g. hear Exodus while listening to this longplayer.

At the same time, Nico Ziska’s hoarse vocals add an anarchic aspect to Zerre’s blistering thrash metal. The furious “Closer to Death” and the frantic “Inferno of Ignorance” are brutal thrash metal songs made for the mosh pit. The title track is the perfect way to finish off the album. Galloping riff power, a high density and husky vocals create a metal storm at the end of a long player that showcases a young and hungry band.

“Scorched Souls” is a musical punch in the face, and I’m certain that live shows are even more intense.