Testament are a legendary thrash metal band from the US. This is their 13th studio album, (14th if you count First Strike Still Deadly).
At this stage Testament should need little introduction. They’re an absolutely classic band, and a long time favourite of mine. I’ll link the reviews of their last two albums here – Brotherhood of the Snake / Titans of Creation – as a precursor to Para Bellum, but basically with Testament you know that at the very least you’re going to get a very good metal album to headbang around too.
Para Bellum features over 50 minutes of material and sounds like Testament, as you’d both expect and want, yet it’s not stale or a mere carbon copy of previous victories. It’s a professionally crafted mix of old-school and modern thrash metal, delivering a collection of songs that hit the spot nicely. Blackened influences touch the music here and there, further rounding out Testament’s charismatic sound. I especially like this blackened side of the band, because of course I do.
Armed with a potent new drummer, this latest Testament album offers an abundance of treats for fans of the band to enjoy, both old and new. The songs showcase a few different aspects of Testament’s many acquired skills from down the years. From high-octane thrash aggression, to infectious rolling groove and epic mood-focused worldbuilding, alongside a variety of moods, feelings, and ideas within this; Para Bellum does quite a lot with its running time. I love the singer’s versatility too. He has an iconic voice and uses it to good effect, whether it’s clean singing, growling, or anything else. It’s a strong performance throughout.
Whether it’s a fiery riff, a blackened melody, blistering blast beats, or a dose of thick meaty heaviness, Testament know what they’re doing. It’s not all instant appeal directness though, as the songs also benefit from good use of atmosphere, pacing, structure, and dynamics. There are hooks and there’s depth, delivering a record that’s well-rounded and very enjoyable.
This is music that makes me feel simultaneously old and young. Testament sound reinvigorated, and that’s how I feel listening to Para Bellum too. It’s fucking metal, and absolutely rules.
Do not miss.
Wonderbox Metal 