Dead Head is a Dutch
thrash metal band formed in 1989, shaped by the late eighties extreme metal
surge and driven by long term dedication. With more than three decades behind
them and most of the original lineup still active, the band continue to release
material through Hammerheart Records,
keeping a steady presence in the European underground and beyond.
“Repression Tank” is
the renewed version of Dead Head’s 2009
album “Depression Tank”, now reissued under a new title by Hammerheart Records. This edition reflects the
period when vocalist and bassist Ralph de Boer first
joined the band, adding a different push to their sound. The album has been
reworked with updated production and a stronger sonic balance, aligning it with
the band’s later releases while staying rooted in aggressive thrash metal
traditions.
The overall character
of the album is intense and confrontational, reflecting the darker themes
suggested by the title. There are moments where the band slow the pace
slightly, adding a darker edge and expanding the atmosphere, then quickly
returning to full throttle. These shifts help maintain interest across the
running time and give the album a solid sense of progression without drifting
away from its core identity.
Disc two adds
historical value with live recordings from the early years of Ralph de Boer’s tenure. These tracks capture the
band in a more raw state, highlighting the energy of that era and serving as an
effective companion to the revamped studio material. Taken as a whole,
“Repression Tank” presents Dead Head as a
veteran thrash band still driven by intensity and consistency, offering a
strong release for longtime followers and newer listeners exploring their
catalog.
Score: 8.0

No comments:
Post a Comment