MP3: Zombiekrig - Döden
Daniel Ekeroth's "Swedish Death Metal" book posits that Sweden was never a good source of thrash and I'm inclined to agree, but of course that never stopped anyone from trying. Hexenhaus is probably the most well-known example from "back in the day" and I'd also add Merciless as an also-ran though they do lean more towards the DM side of things. Anyhow, neither were all that great IMHO, and nor was/is The Haunted, Sweden's leading modern-day thrashers (stretching from the late 90s to now). Lots of strong moments to be sure, but they never totally slay. Zombiekrig however, they steal the crown -- this is exactly what I want from my thrash metal: endless catchy riffs played in lock-step precision with harsh, yet catchy vocals. And forget about The Haunted's overplayed Slayer-izations -- I'd much rather hear strong melodies over chromatic atonalism when it comes to Swedish metal. And how about that break here that hearkens back to "Damage Inc."? Totally killer, just like the mosh part and solo that follow. Also, like all of the best thrash from the glory days up through the present, it doesn't overstay its welcome. Zombiekrig FTW!
Zombiekrig - Döden