Acrassicauda : Only The Dead See The End of the War :: Review
Acrassicauda’s “Only The Dead See The End of the War” EP offers an unrelenting view of the notion that war is Hell. Acrassicauda know this fact very well as they are the Iraqi metal band that was showcased in the documentary “Heavy Metal In Baghdad.” After spending years living on the run and dealing with the heavy toll that the Iraqi conflict inflicted, Acrassicauda found refuge and sponsorship in the United States. Under the mentorship and production skills of Alex Skolnick, lead guitarist of Testament, Acrassicauda recorded their EP that in its brevity offers some of the best new metal that I have heard.
Acrassicauda display their influences on “Only The Dead See The End of the War” accentuating their love of Metallica, Slayer and Sepultura but do not offer rote copies or rip-offs. In exchange, Acrassicauda condensed their metal influences into four of the most authentic and brutal songs about their experiences in Iraq. “Message From Baghdad” opens the EP with an angry jagged thrash metal assault that I haven’t heard the likes of since Pantera’s “Vulgar Display of Power.” The main reason that I’m digging that album up is because vocalist Faisal Talal sounds at times like Philip Anselmo crossed with a younger James Hetfield which is evident on “The Massacre.” Talal demonstrates he has range going from a typical heavy metal grizzly bear growl to a staccato bark reminiscent of Serj Tankian on “The Unknown.” Guitarist Tony Aziz’s subtle riffing and soloing on “Garden of Stones” could match up with Kirk Hammett’s circa “Master of Puppets.” The very capable rhythm section of Firas Al-Lateef (bass), and Marwan Riyak (drums) provide a confident backbone to this young band.
My only complaint regarding “Only The Dead See The End of the War” would be about its length. Then I realize it’s only an EP, but I’m ready to hear more music from Acrassicauda who just might prove that on their proper album they’re ready to inherit the Metal crown from those that inspired them.
Rating: 
