Review DESASTER “Kill All Idols”

“Kill All Idols” is the name of the new Desaster album. It is the tenth studio release from the German metal band, and what roars out of the speakers is a furious blend of thrash and black metal.

Founded in Koblenz, Germany, in 1988, Desaster premiered with “A Touch of Medieval Darkness” in 1996, which marked the beginning of their hellish career, which continues to this day. Four years after launching “Churches Without Saints,” the four-piece band unveils another demonic album that opens with “Great Repulsive Force.” Combined with old-school artwork, the opener sets the tone for “Kill All Idols.” The album’s blistering start doesn’t make any compromises, and neither do the other nine tracks.

Right off the bat, this album shows its grim side, which continues with the rather melodic “Emanation of the Profane.” The song comes in at a moderate pace and showcases the blackened vibe of Desaster’s music. Despite having been in business for so many years, the album still sounds fresh and has its own dynamics. It seems as if the band wasn’t under any pressure while working on the songs and album. Songs like the aggressive title track seem to follow the band’s creative flow, showing that they have fun delivering blistering metal songs.

Whether playing fast and furious, as in the racing parts of “Ash Cloud Ritual,” or the almost doom-driven moments embedded in the same tune, Desaster knows exactly how to create an eerie atmosphere.

Photo: Omer Barzilai

The same goes for “Fathomless Victory.” The six-minute track showcases the four-piece’s creative approach. Rather than solely pushing the pedal, Desaster also has a great feel for atmospheric songs, all while maintaining a raw, anarchic vibe.

“Fathomless Victory” contrasts with “They Are the Law,” a two-minute blast. It blends punk and thrash metal with a blackened soul, and a dirty rock ‘n’ roll undertone swings through more than once, starting with the Motörhead-like bass intro.

With “Stellar Remnant,” we slowly approach the end of the album, which finishes with an outro called “Idol’s End.”

Kill All Idols is an album that showcases a band that doesn’t play metal. Desaster lives metal, and that echoes in each tone of their latest effort. Fueled by a blackened soul, a rebellious heart, and a metallic glow, “Kill All Idols” is a ground-shaking metal album with no compromises—a delight for headbangers worldwide.