Another retro thrash act, and yet another positive review. Italy’s Hyades have been doing it longer than most (if not all) of the recent wave of retro acts, their beginnings traceable as far back as 1996, though their lineup didn’t stabilize until 2003. Another two years went by until the release of their debut LP, Abuse Your Illusions, and here we are in 2007 with their sophomore effort, And the Worst is Yet to Come, and what a nice slab of Bay Area inspired thrash battery it is.

Hyades vocalist Marco is an interesting figure, as he has a pretty unique tone – best described I think as a less nasally, yet slightly harsher and dirtier version of Steve “Zetro” Sousa, and is the perfect fit for the band. Guitarists Mark and Txt throw down some excellent thrash riffs and typical but effective solos while Rob (bass) and RawDeath (drums) hold down the rhythm section respectably.

Instead of relying on complete breakneck speed, Hyades go for more of a mid-pace to fast mid-pace the majority of the time, best exampled by the ever so easily stuck in your head “Megamosh”, “Unconform #756”, “Disposable Planet” (check out the awesome groove riffing around the 2:00 minute mark), “New World War”, and “Valley of Tears” (not a ballad, by the way). They take things to speedier levels with “Buried In Blood”, “Pharmageddon”, “Ezin” (where Marco sounds just a little like Tom Araya on a couple occasions), and the excellent album closer and hilariously titled “Wops Still Thrash” (hey, it’s OK when your poking fun at your own race).

One more thing I must mention is the cover art, done by none other than the legendary Ed Repka (Megadeth, Toxik, Death). It depicts a guy surfing a tidal wave crashing down a metropolitan street leaving cars, people and other debris floating in its wake, with a very ominous looking green haze hovering over the city’s skyline – awesome.

The bottom line here is that Hyades know how to thrash your fucking head off proper, and if you consider yourself a fan of thrash, whether it be of the original movement or this new one, Hyades is worthy of your hard earned cash and attention. As far as I’m concerned, this is the band leading the charge of the throwback thrash bands of late. Top notch.

[Visit the band's website]

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