Review Summary: Tantara's debut is a startlingly powerful behemoth of thrashing goodness.
There's always some groups out there that want to redefine what any given genre means to the general public. Be it through a new twist or what have you, they seem to place value on being unique rather than being a solid act. Tantara takes the exact opposite approach, seeking to refine, rather than redefine, thrash metal. The result is an overwhelming assault on the ears, unrelenting in its power, that will thrill and thoroughly satisfy almost anybody.
It isn't through strange gimmicks, or an effort to be revolutionary, that Tantara obtains this goal. Rather, the group knows exactly what they are capable of, and remains within that limit, all while pounding out riff upon bone-crunching riff. The end result is an album which stands heads and shoulders ahead of its contemporaries. The tracks featured are simply superior to most alternatives. Technical ability is incredibly blatant, without going overboard as to detract from the overall experience. The harsh vocal performance contributes very well to the album on the whole, meshing very well with the rest of the band. Overall, there is an impressive cohesion not commonly seen in modern thrash metal that boosts the album's power greatly.
There are also many little things that add up to a greater whole. For example, the production does not fall victim to the concept that louder is better, and is therefore very crisp and clean, while still retaining the biting edge that the genre is renowned for. An additional draw is the fact that the tone of the guitar is just right. During the fast, technical riffing, it has a crunchy tone, very fitting for the section. In areas such as guitar solos, on the other hand, it is more melodic, and almost evocative of mystique in a way difficult to describe. The overall sum of these small touches help in putting an already above average album over the edge.
This album is monolithic. The songwriting talent of Tantara shines in the fact that, though the shortest song on the album is just short of 6 minutes long, they still retain the listener's interest extremely effectively. It's hard to keep track of time throughout the entire 8 track record. It's simply that strong.
Overall, there is a very bright future in store for Tantara. The Norwegian teens have talent to dispose of, and have shown that they are astoundingly competent in creating a very strong album brimming with passion and power.
Recommended Tracks:
Mass Murder
Trapped In Bodies
Prejudice Of Violence
