(Victory Records)

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When you first put on this CD you can practically hear the testosterone gush out. This undoubtedly sets the tone for the music to soon explode from your stereo. And explode it does. But unbridled testosterone, no. There is a real intelligence behind this effort. Strife seems to embody what I believe heavy metal is today. They’re angry, unforgiving and right up in your face. But at the same time, they are very sharp, calculating and deserving of respect. Strife is not just a band, but a collection of hardcore artists.

Each track gets up and goes with lightning speed, wasting no time reaching cruising altitude. But you don’t just sit in your chair and sip your cocktail on this flight. The blistering sections of rhythm, acting like epoxy holding a hurricane together, drive you to stand up and wave you fist in the air. This is an entirely first class head banging journey.

As heavy as this album is, it’s surprisingly eclectic. From the downright groovy “Staring At The Sky” to the tribal drums on “From These Graves” provided by Cypress Hill’s Eric Bobo, to the kick me in the teeth attitude of “Rise Again.” The intros, transitions and exits to each track are all well thought out, a further testament to the solid production.

Although you may have to press SKIP from time to time after you’ve listened to the album one or two dozen times, the CD is well worth the money. The time may finally be right for these hardcore vets to catch on in a more mainstream fashion. But until then, for all you purists, this album is right up your alley.

Headbangers: Your marching papers are here, and they come in the form of Angermeans.

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