When I think "Aussie thrash", I usually think of gritty, raw, blasting thrash metal, with the excessive satanic themes and alcoholic influences. But lo' and behold, In Malice's Wake have opted for an entirely different direction all together. Within "Blackened Skies" can be heard a more mature and melodically developed band that could very well bring about the change of the standard definition of Aussie thrash.
The Blackened Skies EP is In Malice's Wake's first public release following their 2003 demo, and it shows a solid potential for this band to make their mark on the scene. The band make no attempt to cover up their influences, and many of the riffs can be pinpointed to a particular band's influence. Much of the aggressiveness of mid 80's thrash metal is retained in the strong melodies and excellent lead guitar work. Blistering solos are used to great effect and are well composed and placed, speeding up what for the most part is a fairly mid-paced
release.
The musicianship is really top notch here. The riffs have a razor sharp feel, and the clean production assists this. The leads and solos feel as if they're cutting through the mix, and give the melodies a real "in your face" feel. The vocals are more gruff than regular thrash screams, yet don't quite cross over into growls, which seems to work perfectly.
Overall a very well produced, and exceptionally well played EP that may only begin to show the possibilities of In Malice's Wake. Though these things add up to a very enjoyable listening experience, I can't help but think that maybe the listeners attention could be "demanded" more by speeding up some of the riffs which, at certain times, can feel like they're plodding along. But that aside, most definitlly worth looking into for fans of thrash, good solos and melodies or just quality metal.
Tracks:
1. To Run With Darkness...
2. Blackened Skies
3. As Dusk Covers Day
4. Weakness in Numbers
