Metal Blade signings from Melbourne, Harlott unleash with the relentless opener, the title track Extinction. The guitar duel of Ryan Butler and front-man Andrew Hudson welcome the pounding drums of Tim Joyce and pummeling bass of Tomas Richards. The thrash to behold doesn’t let up moving forward to standout track First World Solutions. Stopping and starting with the immense buildup of chugging riffs and some inspiring guitar solos to please your everyday metal elitist.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCDTJZpBUMs]
Back to back highlights continue with The Penitent, a song featured on Australia’s only 24/7 online Metal Radio Station, AndrewHaugRadio. The guitar wizardry on display and overpowering vocals of Hudson make way for a stomping cracker of a track. Joyce takes down the pace making way for a much-welcomed guitar solo.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfD0Yf2mDP8]
The pedal to the metal continues with Whore spreading the disease like any good whore. The only difference is these talented musicians from Down Under spread brutal riffs and solos rather than their legs. If Slayer had a younger cousin from Australia Harlott would be the guilty relation.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X38ghmKOtXE]
The guitar solos continue which makes for one addictive listen on No Past. Better off dead is a personal favourite which stands its ground. It’s safe in saying there are no duds on this record. All serial killer no bullshit filler right here.
If in need for some 80’s Bay area scene inspired thrash look no more. The sound is world class as you would expect recorded at Monolith Studios (Orpheus Omega, In Malice’s Wake, Bane of Winterstorm) and mastered by Jens Bogren (Kreator, Opeth, Soilwork).
3.5/5 Stars
Out now at all good record stores and online:
