CoC : Mandatory - Mandatory : Review

Mandatory - _Mandatory_
(Psychic Scream, 2000)
by: Adrian Bromley (5 out of 10)

All the way from across the Pacific rim comes the work of Mandatory, a vibrant black/death metal-tinged music machine that relies heavily on rabid drumming, raw production and sinister growls. While Mandatory does have the speed and rawness to appeal to many fans, the band loses ground in the variety department. There just isn't much going on. A lot of the songs sound the same and I'm left wondering if the band really had any set goals while assembling this. With heavy nods to speed, thrash and black metal, Mandatory makes it quite apparent their influences are from all over the map. Too bad the record is too. Stay focused guys, and people may take note next time. I'll admit there are some nice guitar solos on this disc. Choice cut (nice piano work): "Be Guide Me".

Contact: 55, Mukim 6, Kg. Pertama 13500, Permatang Pauh, Penang

(article published 20/11/2000)