FLOTSAM AND JETSAM Flotsam And Jetsam (released 20 May 2016 via AFM)

Thrash pioneers Flotsam And Jetsam release their 12th album, and it follows on nicely from the Pledge Music funded Ugly Noise, released in 2012.

The Phoenix, Arizona band, who formed in the early 80s, are perhaps best known for originally featuring future Metallica bassist Jason Newsted.

A number of line-up changes, and early gigs (locally and in California) with Megadeth, Armoured Saint, Mercyful Fate, Riot, Alcatrazz and Exciter, the band’s 1986 debut Doomsday For The Deceiver featured vocalist Eric AK, guitarists Michael Gilbert and Edward Carlson, bassist Jason Newsted and drummer Kelly David-Smith.

Blistering, intense, the band were always below the “main 4”, but have always been held in esteem, and rightfully so.

This new eponymous album features, alongside constant member Eric AK, guitarists Gilbert (returning) and Steve Conley, bassist Michael Gilbert and drummer Jason Bittner.-

The album’s recording started early in 2015 and there are some solid tracks here; opener Seventh ‘Seal’ is as blistering as ever, drum rolls amongst the guitar harmonies, changes of pace, and the guitar solo rocks too. ‘Life Is A Mess’ is relentless and energetic, while ‘Taser’ has a darker and chunkier feel, while the vocals are even more intense.

One of the fastest and most intense F&J tracks you’ll ever hear is ‘Iron Maiden’ (no connection to the band) but really worth checking out. The vocals clean crisp and fast, and some of the guitar work is influenced by the aforementioned band, albeit rather faster.

The pace continues, but Creeper (good bass / drums lead in) tempers it slightly, and The Incantation has a good spooky atmosphere.

A blistering set and classic intense thrash at its extreme, and as relevant as ever. The dual guitar work, whether riffing or duelling, is mindblowing in pace and power.  7.5/10

Joe Geesin

New lyric video of the track ‘Iron Maiden’