As one might expect from the band's name, lyrically these youths are all about war, war, and more war. Quite apropos for Thrash, no? Of course! Sonically they are aided and abetted by none other than veteran producer Bill Metoyer who has manned the boards for Slayer, Dark Angel, and Sacred Reich, among others. Perhaps the best part of the production is the bass, which sounds very much like Greg Christian of Testament on their first 3-4 records. Very old school and very cool. The drumming can seem to run away at times, but this is likely due to palpable enthusiasm rather than reckless abandon. Twin axes are clear enough both in riff and solo, also offering the occasional harmonized passage. The vocals are of the screamed/shouted variety and quite suitable for the music and style. There are no complaints to speak of, really.

To perhaps summarize, Warbringer play essentially the same brand of modern throwback Thrash a bit better than Fueled By Fire and perhaps on par with Evile or Merciless Death. As with much of this ongoing Thrash "revival" of the past few years, War Without End is not and cannot be the most original thing to come down the pike -- ever, really. But that's okay, too, 'cause it's a great listen. Highlights include all the already named tracks as well as the killer instrumental "bonus track" that closes out the album. A little birdie (Marco Barbieri) indicated it to be called "Epicus Metallicus" and it rules. Check out L.A.'s latest bullet-belted badasses with a quickness.

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 39:26