Venom is the legendary band, nay, establishment, and Hell is their latest opus. So what's new in 2008? How about guitarist Rage replacing Mykus, who replaced Mantas no less than twice? Other than that Cronos (bass/throat) again leads the trio from Hell, which is still rounded out by his brother, Antton, on drums. And the sound? Not quite polished but sufficiently loud and dirty in all the right places. At times a NWOBHM vibe presents itself, but overall the band's trashy Thrash and bleak Black Metal leanings dominate. Additionally, and as a definite nod to the past, a veritable British Punk attitude and sneer can be found throughout Hell (see "Hand of God").

At times the influence of Dave Mustaine (Megadeth) is palpable, as on album opener "Straight to Hell" and "Evil Perfection." "Stab U in the Back" has a Nü-Metal spelling but perhaps the record's most interesting guitar work, including a great breakdown (not the trendy Metalcore type, junior) about halfway through, to say nothing of the simplistic and perhaps trite lyrics. "Kill the Music" even invokes Motörhead lyrically and musically. Over Hell's 60+ minutes Cronos' bass is thick, easily discernible, and even isolated at times (check the album opener, among others). The drums are often sloppy sounding and maybe sloppily played, but that's undoubtedly part of the band's charm. The guitars are more than adequate and the vocals are high enough in the mix to satisfy.

Recommended cuts: "Straight to Hell," "Armageddon," "Stab U in the Back," "Blood Sky," and mostly instrumental, lucky track #13. Apparently only on the digipak version of the release are included live versions of the band's perhaps most famous tracks, thus giving the uninitiated a lesson in history from one of Metal's most important bands. Bottom line: It is good to hear the band in fine form in the current era, particularly after years of shaky lineups and questionable releases. Check out Hell if new to Venom or in the band's legions alike. Who knew Venom could be so fun after all these years? Certainly not Mantas....

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 63:48