In the mid-1980s, the metal scene was an unforgiving battlefield, with bands vying for supremacy in an era of rampant sonic aggression and boundary-pushing creativity. ABATTOIR's "Vicious Attack", released in 1985, stands as a testament to this period's raw energy and uncompromising ethos. This 12" LP, complete with its original inner sleeve featuring the full set of lyrics, is not just a piece of music history but a visceral experience that encapsulates the spirit of thrash metal's formative years.
Historical Context
By 1985, thrash metal was carving its path through the heavy metal landscape, fueled by a desire to push the genre's speed, technicality, and intensity to new heights. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax were leading the charge, but in the underbelly of the scene, other formidable acts were emerging. ABATTOIR, hailing from Los Angeles, California, were among these fierce contenders. "Vicious Attack" was their debut LP, and it captured the zeitgeist of a scene that was as much about rebellion and raw power as it was about musical virtuosity.
Musical Exploration
"Vicious Attack" is a relentless assault from start to finish, embodying the aggressive tempos and razor-sharp riffs that define thrash metal. Tracks like "Screams from the Grave" and "Vicious Attack" showcase the band's ability to blend blistering speed with intricate guitar work and ferocious vocals. The album’s pacing is unforgiving, with each song delivering a barrage of riffs and rhythms that keep the listener on edge. The band’s dual guitar attack, led by Mark Caro and Juan Garcia, is particularly noteworthy, delivering complex solos and harmonies that add depth to the sonic onslaught.
The lyrical content, displayed in full on the original inner sleeve, reflects the angst and intensity of the time. Themes of death, destruction, and societal collapse are prevalent, mirroring the band’s unflinching view of the world. This thematic darkness is matched by the music’s relentless pace and technical proficiency, creating an immersive experience that is both exhilarating and intimidating.
Music Genre
Thrash metal, a subgenre of heavy metal, is characterized by its fast tempo, aggressive guitar riffs, and harsh vocals. "Vicious Attack" is a quintessential thrash album, exemplifying the genre’s core elements while also incorporating touches of speed metal. The album’s sound is raw and unpolished, a deliberate choice that enhances its aggressive edge. This rawness is a defining characteristic of early thrash metal, a genre that thrived on its rejection of mainstream polish in favor of visceral intensity.
Controversies
Like many bands in the thrash metal scene, ABATTOIR was no stranger to controversy. The band’s graphic lyrics and violent imagery stirred debate, particularly among parents and conservative groups who saw thrash metal as a corrupting influence on youth. This controversy only added to the band’s allure, cementing their reputation as purveyors of a dangerous and rebellious form of music. While these controversies might have hindered some bands, for ABATTOIR, it only fueled their fire, adding a layer of infamy that complemented their aggressive sound.
Production Team and Recording Studio
"Vicious Attack" was produced by the band themselves, alongside Jay Jones, and recorded at Track Record Studios in North Hollywood, California. The production is raw, capturing the band’s live energy and translating it into a studio recording that feels immediate and unrestrained. Track Record Studios, known for its work with numerous rock and metal acts, provided an ideal environment for the band to craft their debut. The studio’s atmosphere, combined with the band’s unyielding drive, resulted in an album that is both a product of its time and a timeless example of thrash metal’s early days.
