Bristol thrashers, Detritus have been around far longer than their recorded output suggests. Formed in 1989, “Myths” represents only the bands third long play release. Leaning on the usual thrash suspects as influences, fans will no doubt be eager after such lengthy breaks between albums.
After the contemplative instrumental intro of “Myth Of Redemptive Violence” the militaristic, choppy riff of “Bright Black” harks back to the golden age of thrash. There’s a clarity to the bellowing vocals of Mark Broomhead which are very up front in the mix. A melancholy moodiness hangs over much of the albums first half. “Call Me Human” has a chunky riff that pulls back into a brooding stride before the the “Nothing Else Matters” feel of “Exoria” shows off the Metallica influences.
For these ears, side two is where the band feel like they’re flexing their muscles a little bit more. Shades of Clawfinger appear on “Bloodstained Class” with an almost nu metal aura before the heft of the mid tempo “Pharisee” with its distinctive “Load” era Metallica groove. This is a standout track for me. Closing piece “Forever Soldier” has a distinctive latter day Slayer crunch while still managing to inject melodious moments that take it in a different direction.
“Myths” is a reasonably solid album although the stronger tracks are in the latter half. There’s no doubt that there’s been a lot of craft and thought go into this collection of songs and fans of the band are likely to be pleased that they’re back.
(7/10 Johnny Zed)
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