The Info
This album is a re-visit to some of Testament's finer moments. Not necessarily a greatest hits package, but rather reintroducing these earlier tracks that have been re-recorded with updated technology and sound, Testament have firmly established their importance to the Thrash movement as we know it. The album is all studio based and was released through the Burnt Offerings label via Spitfire Records.
The Music
One might immediately wonder if the music was altered and now in different form. First of all, this band doesn't do those stupid remix albums that are so important to the greedy pop culture. This stuff will rock the house with the updated sound. It's designed to piss of the neighbors and destroy audio equipment. So what kind of stuff is on the album?? How about 'Disciples of the watch' and 'Over the wall'?? Maybe you need a fix of 'The Haunting' or 'The Preacher'?? I kind of dig the 'Trial by Fire' and 'The new order' tracks. I think this track lineup will appeal to the hardcore fans who really have an understanding of what this band really is. Another thing worth noting is the musicianship. These guys have really found a tightness through the years and have become a real force that not too many will deny. In short, they sound amazing. Ther is just that added element of precision that takes these tunes over the top.
Overall
This album is really a cool addition to the Testament catalog. I dig updated recordings as long as the originals can still be had. Really gives you an idea of where the band is at in their career. I have been a fan for a very long time and feel that this is just what the scene needs, a reaffirmation of what metal is about. Recommended, especially to fans of no holds barred Thrash metal!
The Info
Here is a gem that has been tucked away in a vault for a very long time. Fuse is a band from the late 60's featuring very young and talented band members including Rick Nielsen and Tom Peterson who would later be a big part of one of rocks most formidable forces, Cheap Trick. This album previously brought big bucks on the record collectors market. For this album reissue, Rewind brought in Cliff Maag to do the remastering.
The Music
I'm not the greatest judge of 60's music, but this album in my opinion is very good. The band had a tightness that was amazing especially with the oldest member of the band being only 21! There are the original 8 tracks that were found on the vinyl version and as an added bonus, 2 tracks were added from an earlier version of the band called the Grim Reapers. The music is based in the traditional classic rock sound of it's time. It rates well with other acts of the same time. The remaster job is wonderful. When you think of how old this album is and how long it has been in the vaults, it will blow you away to hear the end result. This is definitely another feather in Rewind's cap. A lot of labels should take lessons from these guys on how to put something out that sounds updated and fitting of our times. My hats off!
Overall
For fans of Cheap Trick, this really is a no brainer. It's a must! This album has been very unaccessable until this point. The album is done up right and will probably exceed expectations. It will also work well for fans who dig classic rock as well. It holds up well. The original liner notes are fun to read as well as the new reissue liner notes. Another amazing release from a label who knows and gives the fans what they want!
