The Birth Of Tragedy (Osmose Productions~2002)
This is my first exposure to this band, which is mostly Japanese but fronted by an American vocalist/bassist. Upon opening the door to Ritual Carnage, I was greeted with a thrash assault reminiscent of some of the great releases of the 80s. With fast-paced, straight-forward songs, sharp rhythm guitar work, blazing solos, a relentless drum assault and politically charged lyrics, this is an album that doesn´t overwhelm you with complexity or innovation yet still grows with each listen. Standout songs include the title track, "Paradox Of Democracy", "Grave New World" and "Dawn To Decadence".