format: Mini-LP
year: 1987
country: USA
label: Cynical
#: [tba]
info:
Insert with lyrics and merchandise info.
In 2002 Bootlegged on PicLP (lim. ed. 200 copies) from Brazil / Dust Records
style: Heavy Metal
Tracks
1) Tyrant's Reign
2) Jack The Ripper
3) Untamed
1) Deadly Eyes
2) Reign Of Terror
3) Fadeaway
Speedy and crunchy, the TYRANT'S REIGN mini-LP sits comfortably among the greatest of the early thrash progenitors. Extremely tight playing, coupled with songs easily worthy of the Azra glory days, make this record a real winner. It reminds me of nothing so much as the first EXODUS LP, although Randy Barron's vocals are more like those of Don Doty of DARK ANGEL than those of Paul Baloff. With its fast riffs and hyperactive leads, peppered with the odd mid-paced bridge section, it's easy to see how this band could have made it alongside SLAYER, had the deal Def Jam sought with them actually materialized. I wonder, however, if this is really the sort of record that will appeal to frequent Metal Treasures visitors: While "Year of the Tyrants" is heavy and powerful as all hell, it's a far cry from the epic stylings of MEDIEVAL STEEL or the more traditional metal of WIKKA. I love the thing, but buy at your own risk!