Review REZET “Rezet”

Schleswig in Germany is the home base of a band that started 20 years ago. It was in 2004 when a few kids decided to found Rezet and it took them four demos before their first EP “Toxic Anger” was released. Since then, Rezet has been one of the strongest contributors to German thrash metal, with the self-titled album being the latest effort.

The band’s musical imprint can be found in the sound of the 80s and early 90s. Speed metal and thrash metal are the first choice of the quartet, which doesn’t keep them away from songs like “Unholy Grail” with its rather melodic chorus. The blistering solo is a furious moment though that competes with the pounding foundation of the song.

The beginning, however, is a piano-based intro called “Opus 1984.2” that leads directly to “Time to Die”. The real opener is a furious thrash metal song with a strong Bay Area vibe, especially when it comes to the groove. Even at this early stage of the album it is obvious that Rezet put a lot of power into their interpretation of metal. Refreshing, dynamic and with a very solid punch, each of the songs is a mosh pit initiator.

The four-piece doesn’t only rely on a high tempo. The mid-tempo stomper “Duck and Cover” is a neck muscle challenger, while it is the sound of an acoustic guitar that introduces “Together Apart”.

Equipped with some soulful vocals that start this power ballad, a term I actually don’t like, the songshows some variety. Still, it describes “Together Apart” best, and while the verse is kept in a calm frame, the energy rises in the chorus. The song may not be the shining highlight, but it still fits into the album and shows the range of Rezet’s musical approach.

Most of the songs still follow the trash metal formula, with “Killing Spree” being a bursting highpoint. Blazing speed, a grooving verse and a change of gears in the chorus show the band at its best.

“Atomsfear” is a dark and even dystopian song that has ties to thrash metal and yet has a slightly different vibe. After listening to such a gloomy song, things need to get more upbeat again. “True As Lies” is the perfect option to give the album another twist. The latter is a no-frills headbanger that features a guest appearance by none other than Anvil’s Lips. And not to forget the closer “Into The Abyss” with its flamenco guitar-like middle section.

Rezet continue to raise the bar with their latest album. The tracklist offers excellently crafted thrash metal with enough twists and turns to give the listener a thrilling time. “Rezet” bursts with energy and will allow Rezet to expand their popularity.