Sodom starts the “1982 EP” with a thunderbolt guitar, drums and bass, and then they continue with an obscure riff. At this point, you are inevitably headbanging to “1982”.
It is hard to believe “Witching Metal” is one of the first songs three teenage musicians based in Essen, Germany, had ever recorded. They plugged their instruments at max volume to just be more of an evil version of Venom and Motörhead.
So far, we are enjoying this new complete line-up. The first thing to highlight is the double guitar performed by Frank Blackfire and Yorck Segatz. They create a heavier layer, and they have a blast in their solos.
It is the time for drummer Toni Merkel to shine and “Victims of Death” has a ferocious drum intro that should always prepare the metalheads to a violent and fun mosh pit. Also, the guitar stops and let’s hear Angelripper’s voice and bass at his best.
After hearing “Let’s Fight In The Darkness Of Hell”, we realize that this was recorded early in the 80s, the time when Black, Speed and Trash Metal were getting extreme. On top of that, we feel that Angelripper has no rules when it comes to his songs or trying to not apply the musical theories. Instead, the bassist and vocalist insist it is all about the attitude:
“We were against the establishment, were in trouble with our teachers and training supervisors because, in their opinion, we wore the wrong clothes and listened to the wrong kind of music.”
“Equinox” is the final song that this lawless band put in this EP. It couldn’t get heavier or darker, but somehow, these Germans knew what they are doing. Another epic drum intro courtesy of Mr. Merkel. This song proves no wonder why many Black Metal bands say that Sodom is one of their main influences.
It is a great honour that Angelripper remembered this EP and made it available 41 years later. In this new production, Sodom could recreate the essence of these menacing and furious songs that luckily, we have it immortalized in a clearer sound. A real shame is that these songs are not performed live in recent concerts. The return to the roots is always welcomed. Recorded with a few arrangements and the same killer determination, “1982 EP” is ready to crush your head.
Sodom: Facebook
Release Year: 2023
Label: Steamhammer / SPV
Category: EP
Country: Germany
Reviewed by Taiki
