Review CYCLONE “Known Unto God” – EP

Cyclone is a thrash metal band from Europe that returns with new material. “Known Unto God” is the title of an EP due to hit the shelves in early February.

Hailing from Belgium, Cyclone formed in 1981. Their debut album, released via Roadrunner Records, was their first statement as a band. This was in 1986, when thrash metal first reached a pinnacle. Cyclone released one more album before disbanding in 1993.

In 2019, founding member Guido Gevels revived the band with a new line-up. The aggressive thrash metal that defined the band’s debut album remains at the core of their sound. Cyclone’s approach in 2026 is straightforward. The band doesn’t lose direction by overloading their music with twists and gimmicks. Instead, “Known Unto God” features blistering thrash metal songs. “Eliminate”, the opener, is one such song that hits the bullseye. It’s a sonic slap in the face.

The title track, inspired by inscriptions at the Flanders Fields military cemetery, is a grooving thrash metal song with a massive riff and rough vocals. The vocalist’s style was already a strong factor on the “Brutal Destruction” debut, and this new release builds on that strength.

“Nothing Is Real” is a highlight of this release. It is a dark and sinister song that draws its intensity from a mesmerising riff. It is a vigorous, gloomy song that hits you with steamroller intensity. Cyclone demonstrate that heaviness is not a question of pace. This mid-tempo headbanger showcases the essence of thrash metal, maintaining a recurring motif throughout.

“The Truth Lies” is a fast and furious album closer that marks the return of one of Europe’s most influential thrash metal bands. A vintage vibe, massive density and powerful production define “Known Unto God”, and welcome back Cyclone.