Thrashing their way out of Trento, Italy, National Suicide is set to release studio album number three, “Massacre Elite”, through Scarlet Records.
Wearing their influences unashamedly on their sleeve, National Suicide plays pure, unadulterated thrash. Far from being a tribute or a parody, they take everything that was great about 80’s metal and turn it into appealing songs that remind you of why you fell in love with metal in the first place.
All of the elements of ‘traditional’ thrash (think Exodus, Overkill, Nuclear Assault) are present, as well as the unmistakable energy and youthful exuberance of teenage rebellion. National Suicide isn’t exactly breaking new ground here, but they aren’t trying to. What they do, however, they do very well. The technical proficiency of “Massacre Elite” is absorbing, with drummer Ema Revello combining with Ivan Andreolli (bass) to provide a platform of relentless rhythmic propulsion. This monumental pulse is complimented with ultra-fast rhythm guitar, scorching solos, and Stefano Mini’s high-pitched, abrasive vocals.
Standouts are the title track Massacre Elite, Pisshead, and the sleazy party anthem, Take Me to the Dive Bar.
“Massacre Elite” hits the listener right between the ears with all the subtlety of a steel-capped boot. It’s a fast-paced adrenalin rush of old school metal that would appeal to any fan of the thrash genre. There’s also enough subtle nuances within the nine tracks to engage metal fans from any part of the world.
