14th album from the 80s black/thrash/extreme metal pioneers (4th since 2000’s “Resurrection”), the three piece still lead by founding member Cronos (bass/vocals) now joined by again a new drummer (2007 -) and guitarist since 2009. Following a short minute intro, the title track bursts from the speakers with classic Venom urgency, chunky buzzsaw guitars, a dirty bass, and a pounding drum. Style wise, Venom have not changed, just become more focused and polished within their formula, something begun on “Resurrection”. I mean it is the 2000s, the 80s are over, and studio standards (and preferences) have improved. So it’s to be expected. Gone is the poor production and thin sound from the early 80s, replaced by a much needed (and welcomed) full sonic mix. Still, the straight forward riff and low-fi end Motorheadish bass begun ‘The Death of Rock n Roll” (as with ‘Long Haired Punks’) recalls Venoms brashy beginnings from “Welcome to Hell”. Some effects on the guitar adds a different texture to the riff chunky romper ‘Smoke’, and those identifiable riff accents ‘Temptation’. ‘Crucified’ flows with a nice mid tempo pulsating riff/bass and at its start the slowed down beat and darker vocal for ‘Evil Law’ feels like fellow old school legends Celtic Frost a bit, with a nice change picking up the pace for the solo. Good stuff. The little bit of lead work opening ‘Grinding Teeth’ is different, also includes more of those noticeable Venom guitar notations. ‘Overture’ though is out of place, would have been utilized better before a more epic track. And speaking of…how bout something like another ‘At War With Satan’ next time?

Solid album from to back. Venom hasn’t lost their potency.