Category 7 are a metal band form the US and this is their debut album.
Brought to us by current/ex-members of Anthrax, Armored Saint, Exodus, Machine Head, Overkill, and Shadows Fall, Category 7 has a lot of experience wrapped up in its 52 minutes. Unleashing a storming collection of 90s-inspired thrash metal songs with a touch of classic heavy metal, this is a charismatic record that’s easy to like.
The songs on Category 7 are constructed from tried-and-tested materials by skilled artisans. Focused on memorable songs, with an emphasis on hooks and choruses, the band pour their experience into bringing their thrashy metallic creations to life. Well-written and professionally executed, the album is effortless to digest, tastes good, and hits the spot nicely.
The songs are melodic, catchy, and built around the always wonderful vocals of John Bush, (Armored Saint/ex-Anthrax). Around these are arranged a collection of compelling riffs, fiery guitar solos, and impressive drumming. The riffs are fast and furious, (although in general the rhythm guitars are a bit too buried in the mix), and there are a wealth of guitar solos that are extremely damn good. If you love a good solo, there’s plenty here to get your teeth into. The drumming is particularly notable on this album; unusually it has a personality all of its own, elevating the material even further. Of course, the vocals reign supreme for something like this.
Yep, this is a It’s a strong package, and Category 7 are easy to like if you’ve been raised on 90s metal, (with 80s influences thrown in there too). Category 7 have created an enjoyable album that’s full of solid songs.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 