Review Summary: The greatest 'MELODIC' thrash band i've ever heard. And Yes, i know all the big names like Annihilator, Testament, Metallica & Megadeth. Flawless Songwriting, Crystal Clear Production & 2 Guitarists i'd kill to meet.
INTRO
Stone were a totally brilliant melodic speed/thrash metal band from Finland. I have to say, these guys are the best of the melodic thrash bands i've ever heard & not only in Finland, not only in Scandinavia, but the entire world! Stone's 'No Anaesthesia!' is comparable to albums like Testament (The Legacy), Paradox (Heresy) & Metallica (Ride The Lightning). I can't imagine anyone who has heard and loved any of those albums that won't love this one.
Also, the guitars are the biggest factor to the music of this band (nice bass too). People who cream themselves listening to players like 'Jeff Waters' of Annihilator or 'Dave Mustaine' of Megadeth must hear this disc. It's out of print but don't let that stop you. sites like gemm or ebay are grat sources to find this stuff. I got all my stone albums off gemm. Goodluck!
GUITARS
The most important element of Stone are the two guitarists. Both are great musicians. The songwriting is truly perfect, sort of like how Annihilator's 'Jeff Waters' can write many songs and solo's flawlessly from start to finnish. Songs so flawless that to cover them could only make you look silly. Every riff, every guitar solo, is pure perfection.
DRUMS
the drummer makes no mistakes i can think to name. Not being a drummer myself, it is hard to truly critic here. Though what i do know, is that every fill/beat fits the music well. He doesn't appear to express any major talent but that suits me fine, whats most important to me is that he knows how to go with the music without error and can only compliment the great music.
PRODUCTION
Clear beyond your wildest dreams. Much like some of Annihilators album productions.
VOCALS
The vocals are a kind that grow on you more and more everytime. I found at first i thought they were just okay. Nowadays they rank in my top 10 thrash vocalists ever.
SUMMARY
Megadeth are perhaps the closest example of this bands sound. (The clarity of the new with the intensity of the old) I never thought i'd find another melodic thrash band that i could love more than Annihilator but i think i've finally found them. Stone are brilliant. This is their greatest album. GO HEAR IT!
