While most thrash metalists of the '80s were quick to boast about their admiration of hardcore, few actually let the musical style seep into their sound. New York City's
Nuclear Assault was one of the few bands to do so. Having split during the early '90s, the group -- led by founding members John Connelly (vocals, guitar) and Danny Lilker (bass) -- reunited shortly after the dawn of the millennium. After issuing a live album in 2003 (
Alive Again), the group got around to issuing their first all-new studio album in well over a decade -- 2005's
Third World Genocide With their last few releases before their split not living up to their earlier work, the reunited
Nuclear Assault has wisely gotten back to basics -- thrash metal riffs, brutal drumming, and almost hardcore-esque hollering. And while their lyrics prove to still be quite "socially aware" on such tracks as "Price of Freedom," "Eroded Freedom," and the album-opening title track, things aren't always so serious, as evidenced by a re-recording of the John Connelly solo track, "Long Haired Asshole." Musical trends may come and go, but it's good to know you can still count on
Nuclear Assault to thrash the night away. ~ Greg Prato