Paradox - Tales of the Weird

Heyyy, aren't these guys from the same part of town as that dude that followed the droids around in Mos Eisley?Bavarian thrash band Paradox is no stranger to the metal game; its cofounders were in their own thrash metal cover bands a few years before starting their own original effort in 1986. Though they debuted to great acclaim and released two critically popular albums, multiple line-up changes and illness have kept the band from being as active as other long-lived acts from the legendary 80s metal scene. Fast forward to now and the release of their 6^th studio album, Tales of the Weird.

Band leader Charly Steinhauer handles the chores of guitar and vocals, but perhaps the real star is lead guitarist Christian Münzner who absolutely shreds all over the place, giving the songs on the album that oomph to keep it lively (and relevant) in today’s metal market. It’s a classic formula: heavy breakneck riffage, thunderous back beat, and razor sharp solos blanketed on top. And true to their old school roots, there are acoustic intros, sweet cover art, dirge-like moments of respite and enough political commentary to start a left wing radio show.

The Bottom Line: Old school thrash fans will find a lot to like in this latest album from the Bavarian metal masters. This album is chock full of high octane, headbanging fury played at breakneck speed. With music like this, there's only one place to go: INTO THE PIT!

Tracks That May Require You to Wear a Patch-Covered Denim Trucker Jacket: Tales of the Weird, Day of Judgement, Escalation, and Slashdead

- Genghis still has his old [too small] Levi's denim jacket in the closet somewhere...