CoC : Requiem Mass - Shattered Destiny : Review

Requiem Mass - _Shattered Destiny_
(Independent, 1999)
by: Alex Cantwell (8 out of 10)

Well honk my hooter if this doesn't sound a lot like Sacrifice's _Soldier of Misfortune_, which, if you don't remember, was an early '90s thrash masterpiece. This debut full length from Requiem Mass brings back those same feelings I got when I first heard _SoM_, and it is really a treat to the ears. _Shattered Destiny_ is comprised of aggressive and somewhat technical thrash that is catchy and flows very well. These guys have even succeeded in making their album flow together well, as far as song sequence goes, which is something that Metallica, Anthrax and Overkill used to be good at, but has since become a forgotten art -- extra points for that alone. Intertwining mosh parts with sleek guitar lines and excellent lead work, and all held together by precise drumming, Requiem Mass have impressed me very much. What a surprise to discover a kick-butt thrash CD by a young band in 1999! They seem to be playing from the heart, and with conviction for their craft, but assuredly they will never get the credit they deserve because they are playing metal that is out of fashion.

Contact: Requiem Mass, 14400 Oakwood PL, Albuquerque, NM 87123, USA

(article published 9/12/1999)