Copyright (c) 2007 THE THRASH METAL GUIDE


0-9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

PACE OF HEARSE (GERMANY)

"Thrash The Heads" offers short, direct raw thrashers, not too far from Hirax, but more aggressive, and with a worse sound quality. The singer adds to the raw and aggressive sound of the recording, with his sinister, hoarse voice. "Troops of the Hearse" is longer, but doesn't waste time, and thrashes without mercy, having also a cool lead guitar section.

The DemoN Demo, 2005
Thrash The Heads Demo, 2006
ReHEARSEal Demo, 2007

My Space

PAGAN RITES (SWEDEN)

The guys from the heavy/black metal outfit Devil Lee Rot, along with Devil Lee Rot himself, have decided to harden the course a bit, under a new name. Based on "Pagan Metal - Roars of The Anti Christ", this is black/thrash, sounding like a more vicious version of the Devil Lee Rot music, not very fast or aggressive, also recalling another Swedish act: Bewitched. An interesting moment are the doomy tracks ("Unholy Ancient War") which bring the sound close to the old veterans Bathory, Celtic Frost and Venom. The rest is a cool, simplistic, headbanging stuff, including some songs which sound as though directly taken from the Devil Lee Rot albums ("Pagan Metal").

Sodomy in Heaven EP, 1994
Bloodlust and Devastation EP, 2000
Mark of the Devil Full-length, 2003
Dancing Souls Single, 2005
Pagan Metal Single, 2006
Pagan Metal - Roars of The Anti Christ Full-length, 2006

My Space

PAGAN WAR MACHINE (USA)

A side project of the Dreams of Damnation members. Here the music is cleared of the aggrresive proto-death parts of the other band's style, which makes it more melodic and less enjoyable. The concentration is on heavy 90's aggro thrash akin to Pantera and Machine Head, and on vocals Steve Gaines does a good job to impersonate Phil Anselmo.

Demo 2002 Demo, 2002
Bayonets And Battle Scars Demo, 2003

PAGANDOM (SWEDEN)

A typical modern 90's thrash metal band- one of the many Pantera and Machine Head-clones.

Crushtime Full-length, 1994

PAGANIZER (SWEDEN)

This band started mixing thrash and death metal of the old school on their debut; crushing and mostly fast-paced music, with a ceratin use of blast beats, which could have been avoided, because they break the integrity of the compact, and quite cool thrash/death sound. Later on thrash metal stepped down, and their subsequent releases have embraced the death metal idea tighter, again doing a good job, along the lines of the early Swedish heroes from the movement: Grave, Entombed, etc.

Deadbanger Full-length, 1999
Warlust EP, 1999
Promoting Total Death Full-length, 2001
Dead Unburied Full-length, 2002
Murder Death Kill Full-length, 2003
No Divine Rapture Full-length, 2004

Official Site

PAGANOS (ARGENTINA)

At the time when the veterans on the Argentinian metal scene were modernizing their sound, here came a band to put them all to shame. The album-title is misleading as there is nothing experimental here: this is all-out classic speed/thrash metal with great guitar melodies and catchy headbanging tracks- just listen to "Mi Legado" and jump around till you drop! Well, you can have a break on the next track which is a cool balladic piece- "Creando Tu Destino", but after it the assault goes on unabated with "Ni Muerto"- the most aggressive number on the album. This work must have been one the first sparkles to kindle the retro thrash renaissance in South America.

Experimental Full-length, 1999

PAIN (USA)

Aggressive Slayer-esque thrash, not bad, but the muddy sound quality is a major obstacle at times. Nevertheless the guys try hard, and the leads are more sensible than the ones of Kerry King. The music is fast and intense all the time, topped up by gruff, semi-death metal vocals.

Into The Bloodbath Demo, 1988

PAINGOD (USA)

Finally the band Raped Ape have decided to change their obscene name. Unfortunately, as Raped Ape the band were able to pull out some nice thrash metal riffs of the classic school, whereas here we have just another modern thrash act, with touches of hardcore.

Paingod Full-length, 1997

PAINMUSEUM (USA)

Metal Mike Chlasciak's (Halford, Testament) new band, ably supported by Bobby Jarzombek and Steve Digiorgio (you know their backgrounds). With a stellar cast like that you expect nothing but a masterpiece, and this is probably close on the most inspired moments. Everyone is in top form here, especially Mike whose guitar pyrotechnics are outstanding. The style is not too far from Halford's solo efforts, or Fight's "War Of Words", but is more thrashy and there is a certain modern edge ala Pantera in the guitar approach. And I haven't said anything about the singer yet, who is an acquired taste, with his gruff singing which sometimes doesn't really fit the music. This is a solid if a somewhat flawed release.

Metal For Life Full-length, 2005
You Have The Right To Remain Violent EP, 2006

Official Site

PAINSTRUCK (PORTUGAL)

Swedish thrash/death metal made in Portugal. The soundalikes are as follow...

Aggressive Ways to Pacify Full-length, 2001
A Whole New Perception Full-length, 2002
The Scalpel EP EP, 2006

Official Site

PALE CREATION (USA)

This is a very obscure band. The style is crossover/thrash: more thrash on the first demo, more crossover on the second one.

Demo, 1992
Demo, 1994

PALE HORSE (USA)

This band were previously known as Hostility. The name change carries some style-changes, too, but not too many: the music is still a blend of death and thrash metal like on the Hostility EP, but this time the concentration is more on thrash, and even speed metal; the tempo is faster with the traditional doom-sections preserved here as well, and a slightly more aggressive vocal delivery. It was good for the 90's that there were acts like this one to carry the old school spirit.

Mournful EP, 1993
Bitter Fruits of Temptation EP, 1994
Until the Last Seal is Opened Best of/Compilation, 2005

Official Site

PANACEA (GERMANY)

Panacea is a side project for two Accuser members and their debut is pretty close in sound to early Accuser, with a touch of Bay Area thrash: an excellent album although a bit short (only 6 tracks). The guys thrash with conviction and aggression, as evident from the smashing opener "Megalomania". Later some calmer, but quite hard-hitting songs come up ("Masquerade", "Delusion"). The tracks easily go over the 5-min range, although there is nothing too technical going on, maybe just occasionally. The style changed along with Accuser's, adopting a groovy modern sound on the second album.

Is It A Human ? Full-length, 1993
Promo-CD EP, 1994
Pray Full-length, 1995

PANDEMONIC (SWEDEN)

Underground heroes from a couple of black and death metal bands have gotten together with the intention to play some classic thrash; and they have done exactly that: excellent classic thrash in a fast and energetic tempo, with great sharp riffs, recalling Razor's later (and better) period, and early Destruction. Those of you who grew up listening to "Shotgun Messiah", will spend days with this album! Apart from the non-stop riff-fest, some nice lead guitar could be heard, too. With the majority of the bands coming from Sweden nowadays, concentrated on the more modern thrash/death hybrid genre initiated by The Haunted, it's really cool to hear such well executed classic thrash metal work.

The Authors of Nightfear Full-length, 2000

Official Site

PANIC (BRA)

Based on "Rotten Church", Panic are a typical representative of the branch created by the works of early Sepultura and Sarcofago: brutal thrash bordering on death metal, obviously influenced by Possessed's "Seven Churches"; short on technicality, but long on evil atmosphere and enthusiasm. "Best Before End" is a much better effort, with its aggressive riffs and fast tempo, strongly recalling Sepultura's "Beneath the Remains". The aggression is interrupted by some good slower, stomping thrashers ("Hannibal The Cannibal"), melodic power/thrash metal numbers ("No York, No York"), and a joke song at the end ("Shoobydahbydoobah").
"Boiling Point" is strongly influenced by the 90's groovy trends, and is the band's weakest hour, despite the presence of some interesting attempts at more stylish play ala mid 90's Voivod ("Beholder", "Satanacrack").

Rotten Church Full-length, 1990
Best Before End Full-length, 1992
Boiling Point Full-length, 1996

PANIC (USA)

The band appeared late on the scene, but their style was typical 80's thrash with a playful attitude, sounding like a less aggressive Anthrax, or early Mordred. The music has this jolly, up-lifting quality, but the guitars are too sharp for this to be defined as crossover. On the other hand some tracks ("High Strung"), as well the vocal style, strangely recall Skid Row's "Slave to the Grind". But some pieces are really intense thrashers ("Morbid Curiosities"). The debut is the faster and better effort, whereas "Fact" introduces quite a few modern, groovy elements, bringing the sound close to 90's Overkill.

Epidemic Full-length, 1991
Fact Full-length, 1993

PANNYCHIDA (RUSSIA)

Based on "New World's End", this band play a dark, atmospheric blend of doom/death and some thrash. So don't expect blasting fast music- this is mid-paced stuff, with some female vocals, accompanying the gruff death metal main ones from time to time, a strong, but not annoying presence of keyboards, and meaty, heavy riffs. The probem is that very often the band adhere to the typical for the genre peaceful, melodic interludes which stifle the more aggressive nature of the rest, and near the end they try to vary things, adding some industrial and groove on the last two songs, and end up sounding like an almost different, but not better, band.

Here You Are! Full-length, 1996
Defragmentation Full-length, 1999
New World's End Full-length, 2006

Official Site

PANTERA (USA)

The masters of modern 90's thrash who actually invented the whole scene along with Exhorder. Their beginnings (not included here) were in classic heavy metal, but with "Cowboys From Hell" they made a major claim at greatness. The early 90's were phenomenally successful for the band, but with Phil Anselmo taking part in numerous projects and especially after the untimely, tragic death of Dimebag Darrell (R.I.P.), Pantera's impact on the contemporary metal scene is not as strong as before.

Cowboys from Hell Full-length, 1990
Vulgar Display of Power Full-length, 1992
Biomechanical EP, 1993
Hostile Moments EP, 1994
Far Beyond Driven Full-length, 1994
Alive and Hostile E.P. EP, 1994
The Great Southern Trendkill Full-length, 1996
Becoming EP, 1996
Unofficial Hits (CD Sampler) EP, 1998
Reinventing the Steel Full-length, 2000
Extreme Steel Plus EP, 2001
Rhino Hi-Five - Pantera - EP EP, 2006

Official Site

PANTHER (GERMANY)

Based on the "Total Chaos" demo, this band come up with quite a mixed bag: at their best the guys pull out awesome speed/thrash ala Destruction and Angel Dust (the opener "Terror Invasion", and the follow-up "Shame for America" which features riffs directly stolen from Destruction's "Life Without Sense"), but there is a considerable doze of hardcore here, as well as some more intense, but inappropriate death metal parts ("Nuclear War"), and the vocals change style on every song alternating between cleaner and harsh, death metallic ones. It's most likely a compilation of smaller demos reflecting on the band's development through the years, but put together this mish-mash doesn't seem to work all the time.

Empire of Death Demo, 1989
Total Chaos Demo, 1989

PANTOKRATOR (SWEDEN)

Based on “Blod”, this band play excellent progressive thrash/death metal, with frequent switches from one style to the other, maybe staying closer to death metal, with a dual vocal attack: low death metal growls, and vicious snarls ala Jeff Walker. The music will remind you of Carcass’ “Heartwork” quite a bit, with the addition of some doomy, slow sections where the sound smells doom-death. Seldom can one hear guitar melodies in the vein of the Swedish melo-death wave, betraying the guys’ origins, as well as some blast beats. Near the end the band take a break from thrash/death with the folk/gothic number “Tidevarv”, and with the short atmospheric instrumental “O Guds Lamm”.
“Songs of Solomon” is not far from “Blod”; it’s maybe more atmospheric and slower, doomier. “Aurum” slows down, but not much, and is quite inferior to “Blod”; the influence of the Gothenburg school is stronger, although the music preserves the progressive tendencies most of the time. A highlight or a disappointment (depending on the taste) is the massive 14-min doom epic “The Feeble Flame”, which could make even bands like Katatonia (early) and Opeth proud.

Allhärskare EP, 2000
Songs of Solomon EP, 2001
Blod Full-length, 2003
Aurum Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PANZER (BRAZIL)

The band's debut is a blend of classic heavy metal and thrash with two covers- one of Kiss' "Detroit Rock City", and the other- of Judas Priest's "Night Crawler". The sophomore release offers a much more modern sound ala Pantera.

Inside Full-length, 1999
The Strongest Full-length, 2001

PANZERHÖLLE (GERMANY)

A cool, quite fast fusion of thrash and death metal, spiced with slower, semi-groovy breaks in the tradition of Six Feet Under. The guitar work is quite good, alternating sharp with melodic riffs to a cool effect- check out the excellent "Battlefield". The singer's deep growls are maybe not the best choice, bringing him close to the more brutal voices of death metal, like Karl Willets (Bolt Thrower).

And Then There Was Violence EP, 2008

My Space

PAPSMEAR (USA)

Based on the "Lunch for the P.M.R.C." demo, this is pure "Reign in Blood" worship, and very well done at that; aggressive and hard-hitting music.

Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas Demo, 1986
Lunch for the P.M.R.C. Demo, 1987
Scraping the Walls Demo, 1991
The Inhuman Condition Demo, 1992

My Space

PARABELLUM (COLOMBIA)

Based on "Sacrilegio", this is a very brutal record which could have been considered a pioneering work if it had been known back in the 80's. So what we have here is some vicious, ultra aggressive black/thrash metal sounding as though coming from the deepest bowels of hell (enough with the Lovecraft influence!). One can even catch some proto-death passages. Good production qualities are, of course, out of the question, but the utter brutality makes it an essential listen just for one to hear where the actual roots of the most extreme metal genres lie.

Sacrilegio EP, 1987
Mutacion Por Radiacion EP, 1988

My Space

PARADOX (GERMANY)

An outstanding speed/thrash metal band. The debut is excellent speed metal similar to early Helloween and Warrant, but with the extraordinary "Heresy" the band easily left most of the competition behind. One more album like that was needed to put them on the very top, but the band split up. Their comeback release is very strong, with a more modern and complex sound going even into progressive territory at times, and a nice cover version of one of the first real speed metal classics- Scorpions' "Dynamite".
Apparently not willing to capitalize on the success of "Collision Course", the band took quite a long break, before they strike again. The style is not miles away from "Collision...", being more technical, albeit with more melodic guitar lines, coming as a mix of power, thrash and speed metal, and this time resembles the Polish Hellfire quite a lot on the faster sections. This is fast-paced stuff, with progressive overtones, and some nods to the 90's power/speed metal scene: "Monument", mostly in the catchy chorus. The guys take a break from speed more often than they have ever done before, which I personaly find a not very desirable tendency: "Portrait in Grey" and "Cyberspace Romance" are heavy, balladic pieces which would probably suit better mid-period Squealer, or modern day Helloween. While "Collision Course" was a truly satisfying slab of hard-hitting speed/thrash, recalling the incredible "Heresy" on many moments, "Electrify" show the band spreading their wings to reach more metal sub-genres. Maybe this is the first step towards leaving the thrash metal field some time in the future?!

Product Of Imagination Full-length, 1987
Heresy Full-length, 1989
Collision Course Full-length, 2000
Electrify Full-Length, 2008

My Space

PARALYSER (USA)

Good power/thrash typical for the American scene of the 80's with high-pitched, dramatic vocals recalling Warrel Dane's first attempts at singing in his first band Serpent's Knight. They fit the music, however, which is fast most of the time, recalling a thrashy version of Attacker's "Second Coming", and Liege Lord's "Burn to My Touch". But you have to get used to the vocals, though, which might put a few smiles on your face for their sheer, and partially laughable, dramatism.

Demo Demo, 1988

PARALYSIS (HOLLAND)

A standout progressive/technical thrash band, who started in a marvellous way with "Arctic Sleep": an exquisite opener for their career, with its five explosive songs of stupendous technical thrash, with its mighty super-technical riffs and mind-blowing leads; the tempo is fast, but frequently changes forming whirlwinds of riffs and melodies; Helstar's "Nosferatu" comes to mind quite often, too, when listening to this, but here the guitars are sharper; this short masterpiece beats almost everything created in the technical genre at that stage, along with same year's Coroner's "Mental Vortex". Every track is a masterpiece of the genre, combining intense, speedy sections with swirling complex ones, the culmination probably being the closing "Arctic Sleep", which is the fastest and most intense piece, which sudden tempo changes makes it also a very compelling technical affair. The vocal performance is by no means bad, but the music overshadows it a bit, which is a pity, since the guy has a very powerful voice, coming as a cross between Jeoff Tate and James Rivera. Such a strong beginning inevitably raises the question: "what happens next?".
Apparently the guys were carefully thinking over their next step, so it was no wonder that their next offering appeared whole 3 years later. When "Altered States" starts, one knows that this won't be the same experience; this opener is slower, longer, and despite the presence of great technical guitars, is kind of underwhelming. After the next "Experimental Factor Genocide", which carries on in the same vein, the listener will put his hopes to hear something fast and intense music to rest (there is only one track which could fit the debut: the short bombastic technical "Twisted"), and from now on will have to adjust to the new style; and if he manages to do that, he will come across some truly impressive progressive thrashers: the more dynamic, up-tempo "The Waters Cry", the doomy thrasher "Tardis", the atmospheric, dark "Enemies Within". "Escape from Yesterday - Suniptar" is a magnificent ballad, finished in a quite aggressive, thrashy manner: a sudden, unexpected, but truly satisfying touch (which could be another song, albeit too short). Despite its numerous good moments, this album remains in the shadow of the much shorter (this one here has whole 13 tracks) debut EP.
"Wonderland" sounds like a smaller version of the preceding album; again no speed involved, this time even the technicality is missing, making this small effort sound like pretty standard power/thrash, still good, relying on old songs to make it stand out: the ballad from the previous work "Escape from Yesterday", and the great technical number from the debut EP "Inhumane".
Certainly after the last not very impressive offering the interest in the band was expected to diminish, and "Architecture Of The Imagination" did not enjoy the same acceptance as before. Still, it was quite a worthy slab of progressive power metal, quite close to Hexenhaus' "Dejavoodoo" and their continuation Fifth Reason, with few moments of thrash. Songs like the excellent technical power/thrasher "Picture Picture" and the slower, but very good progressive piece "Trip" stir the mood, but the insertion of some modern elements, which were strange to the band's sound before, and the lack of any more speedy passages, might make this album a somewhat tiring experience for the regular thrash metal fan, although as a piece of well executed progressive metal, this work delivers the goods on all counts.

Arctic Sleep EP, 1991
Visions Full-length, 1994
Wonderland EP, 1996
Architecture Of The Imagination Full-length, 2000

PARANOIA (RUSSIA)

Power/thrash metal with weak vocals and one-dimensional tracks of the heavy/power metal variety, with a couple of decent thrashy headbangers present.

Mest' Zla Full-length, 1993

Fan Site

PARANOIA (USA)

Good thrash/crossover, not too far from the more thrashy D.R.I. releases.

The Many Faces Of Full-length, 1989

PARIAH (UK)

This band have changed their name a few times having started as Satan, then performing as Blind Fury, before settling on this one. The style is a good mixture of the NWOBHM-sound of the past releases and thrash with a magnificent guitar work and very consistent song-writing. The style might remind you of mid-period Testament, but the guitar sound here is more pounding, and the faster sections are not that many; this is mid-paced to up-tempo music, with several more intense numbers present (the nice Sabbat-influenced "Killing for Company" from the debut). The debut contains the more aggressive, thrashy material, whereas "Blaze of Obscurity" offers a lighter sound, with nods to the heavy/power metal scene, and is the lesser achievement. Two of the band members joined Skyclad, and the band ceased to exist for about a decade, when they returned with "Unity" which is also very good, albeit more melodic, with a sound deeper rooted in NWOBHM.

The Kindred Full-length, 1988
Blaze of Obscurity Full-length, 1989
Unity Full-length, 1998

Vibrations of Doom

PARITY BOOT (GERMANY)

Based on the first demo, this is modern, industrialized at times thrash metal with some alternative elements added as well. A nice touch is the clean vocals as opposed to the synthesized, hardcore-ish apocalyptic shouts, but they would be more suitable for a gothic/wave act. The style will probably remind you of thrashy Misery Loves Co. (Sweden) or Die Krupps.

Demo Demo, 2004
Demo Demo, 2006

Official Site

PASCAL (POLAND)

Based on the "Collection of Destroyed Brains" demo, these guys try to offer something out of the ordinary, and succeed most of the time. This is technically-minded thrash with death-ish vocals, clearly rooted in the 80's sound, which reminds me of the Chuck Schuldiner (R.I.P.) side-project Control Denied, but with a considerably more thrashy edge: the riffs keep flowing and they are quite interesting and change often, without being too aggressive or fast. Another band their music could be compared to, is their compatriots from Astharoth, maybe less adventurous, and with a better bass bottom which is so good that often just overshadows the other instruments completely. And that's why the guitar work really tries hard to be in pace with it, which creates the impression that the guitarists compete with the bassist, and from this the listener only wins, as there are plenty of pyrotechnics from both sides to satisfy him. This is an engaging listen, with a lot of musicianship involved, and the intricate nature of the music might not be the headbanger's paradise, but those who are willing to take more care into the proceedings, will surely be rewarded.

Pascal Demo, 1991
Collection of Destroyed Brains Demo, 1992
About a Man Full-length, 1995

PATECABRA (CHILE)

Vicious, brutal, fast black/thrash metal is what is on offer here. The band seldom slow down; the music is close to Alastor from Portugal, but played much faster, and with a more aggressive attitude.

Patecabra EP, 2005
El Horror Full-length, 2007

My Space

PATHOS (SWEDEN)

One of the best Swedish metal bands of the past 10 years; progressive power/thrash with touches of doom. The debut is a smashing beginning, which came right on time to replace Hexenhaus on the top of the Swedish thrash metal scene, and is the band's finest hour: fabulous technical thrash not too far from masterpieces like Mind-Ashes' "The Views Obscured" and Hexenhaus' "Awakening"! The vocals are very close to Messiah Marcolin, but the music seldom smells doom. "Uni Versus Universe" is not too different from the debut, and is another stellar effort, but the sound is more complex, the guitars are even more technical, and the tracks are longer, with power metal saying its word more often.
"Katharsis" starts in an awesome way with the title carrier, another great technical thrasher; then the music softens a little, but remains on a very high level. Progressive metal has stepped even further, and some tracks will probably remind you of Abstract Algebra, Fifth Reason, and even Memento Mori, until the time when "Detonation" hits- a great headbanger, finished with a marvelluos progressive passage. After it the course hardens for a couple of songs, and stays like that till the end. I hope these guys are still together; this is arguably the finest Swedish metal band for the past 10 years.

Hoverface Full-length, 1997
Uni Versus Universe Full-length, 1998
Katharsis Full-length, 2002

My Space

PATRIARCA (PARAGUAY)

The second metal band from Paraguay (after Corrosion) I have listened to, making me want to dedicate a certain part of my life researching the metal scene over there. This is Bay Area thrash with some brilliant guitar work which might put many Shrapnel heroes to shame. These guys can certainly go far.

Destrucci¾n Massiva Demo, 2002
Metal Hasta La Eternidad Demo, 2004

PATRIARCH (BELGIUM)

A relative late comer on the thrash metal scene, Patriarch play an interesting brand of epic power metal, "accompanied" by a healthy "pinch" of thrash, somewhat along the lines of Drifter, but Patriarch are more power metal-based. Worthy of note are the excellent vocals ranging from forceful, thrashy notes to wailing, high- pitched ones. Both albums are in the same style, but the debut is decidedly the better effort. The compositions mix more intense thrashy riffs, with epic/power metal ones, and those latter ones bring some nice melodic choruses with them. The longer, progressively-laced songs are by far the band's more attractive side: "Shadowland" is a masterpiece of progressive power/speed/thrash; still some of the shorter numbers pack a punch no worse, like the energetic speed/thrasher "Father Kreator", and the fine stomping heavy thrash instrumental "Prophecy". But at least half of the songs are mid-paced, melodic power metal with hints of thrash, not bad at all, with cool melodic hooks. The sophomore release emphasizes on the melodic aspect, leaving the thrashing a bit behind.

Prophecy Full-length, 1991
World Within Worlds Full-length, 1993
Deity EP, 1998

Official Site

PAURA (BRAZIL)

Based on "Reverse The Flow", these guys play hardcore-ish thrash with a modern edge, which sounds quite hard-hitting and enjoyable, implemented by some cool melodic hooks. The music meanders from some fast thrashers ("Drive By Fire"), which are the predominant ones, to some heavy, crushing ones ("Old Tools Work").

First Release Full-length, 1996
The Myth is Dead EP, 2002
Youkillusweovercome Full-length, 2005
Reverse the Flow Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PC DEATH SQUAD (USA)

Energetic thrash/crossover with a slight alternative bite, sounding like a mix between D.R.I. and Rage Against The Machine. The track "Fuck Metallica" has a more than a clear message, but this should be more fitting for a band who are at least half as proficient musicians as the band mentioned in the song title. These guys are not...

Too Fat For Love Full Length,2005

Official Site

PEDIFILE (USA)

Another worthy band who passed unnoticed, and quite undeservedly. This band played fast, aggressive thrash/death metal akin to Possessed's "Seven Churches" and Dark Angel's "Darkness Descends", probably a tad more intense. The opener from their first demo- "Shackle The Jackal", could easily pass for the first real death metal track. The second demo surprisingly comes with a much worse, fuzzy sound which considerably takes away from the music quality, but the intense delivery from the debut demo is almost completely preserved. This band is another proof that there were forces working in the underground which did as much to establish the more extreme metal genres as the much more famous and celebrated ones.

Die a Violent Death Demo, 1986
Round 2 Demo, 1987

PENDEMIA (UK)

A very obscure thrash metal band from the UK whose style reminds of Violence's "Eternal Nightmare" (strong similarities in the vocal department) and Evildead's "Annihilation Of Civilization"; quite good, aggressive stuff, albeit a bit short- only 6 songs. There is certain hardcore aesthetics in the approach, brought also by the good, forceful vocals, coming as a mixture between Billy Milano and John Connely.

Narcotic Religion Full-length, 1990

PENDULUM (USA)

Based on the "Atrocity Sin" demo, these guys come up with a fairly interesting slab of classic thrash. The music is by all means technical, but is quite heavy, and features too much: very stylish melodic guitars with an Oriental shade (the beginning of "Atrocity Sin"), intense proto-death sections ("Sardonic Wrath"), vey proficient lead guitar work all over, but above all numerous original moments, which climax is the technical thrash masterpiece "Crown of Thorns"- an encyclopaedia of amazing riffage which would stand proud even on Nasty Savage's "Penetration Point", and could easily be the highlight there as well. There is so much you would hear throughout its 8-min, from the brilliant lead in the beginning to the closing aggressive guitar section, that you might want to take a break from metal for a few hours after that. Now the big hunt begins for their other works...

Skull Fuck EP, 1989
Atrocity Sin Demo, 1990
Vlad the Impaler EP, 1991
Vlad the Impaler Demo, 1991

PENETRATOR (FRANCE)

Based on the "First Penetration" demo: this is simplistic thrash with a clear classic edge, but with a horrible sound quality, especially the one of the guitars which are so fuzzy that create the impression that all that had been one of the earliest products, where everything has been made on a computer, and very quickly. This is quite aggressive stuff which sounds not far from Necrodeath's early efforts. "Spermrace" goes well beyond that, and ventures into brutal death/black metal territories. The vocals are horrible, hysterical black-ish shrieks which might scare the unprepared.

First Penetration Demo, 1987
...Live! Demo, 1989
Just a Rehearsal Demo, 1989
Now... EP, 1990
Wishing Demo, 1990
Maria Gave Me Rock 'N' Roll EP, 1993

PENTAGRAM (CHILE)

A great underground band who beat the majority of the more famous Chilean acts easily. This is one of the big influences on the more extreme side of the metal scene which evolved from the works of bands like this one. The style is agressive thrash with proto-death passages, recalling Possesssed and Slayer. Two of the band members later formed another very good, but on a different level, act: Dorso.

Rehearsal Tape Demo, 1986
Demo l Demo, 1987
Fatal Prediction/Demoniac Possession EP, 1987
Demo #2 Demo, 1987
White Hell Demo, 1991

My Space

PERGAMENT (SERBIA)

Very good thrash metal, similar to Forbidden and Heathen; up-tempo to fast, energetic riffs, fused with some stylish technical passages- you can't miss this. The EP softens the course, and is the lesser effort, introducing more melodic, but equaly as effective, technical riffs. The music is not fast all the time, and some stomping thrashers sound even more appealing than the rest: "Red Hot Frontier". "Baby You Are Fire" is a letdown, with its pop-ish guitars ala Ratt. The last song ("Children of A Savage Kind") is just a little improvement over it, being melodic galloping power/speed metal number.

Vruca Linija Full-length, 1988
Mr.War EP, 1990

PERISHING MANKIND (AUSTRIA)

Thrash metal acts from Austria are a rarity these days, but this country would need more talented bands than the one here, to put it back on the metal map. What we have here is (based on "Wonderland") quite typical modern thrash, mixing faster parts with slower, groovy ones. Those second parts are more melodic, reminding of Machine Head's mid-period. There are shades of the Gothenburg sound in the guitar department, but it's the drier, less melodic numbers which work better: "Charge". Some heavy-handed funky/alternative passages can be heard on "Sad Day".

Fall of Men Full-length, 2005
Wonderland Full-length, 2007

My Space

PERPETUAL (SPAIN)

This band offer a mix of the retro sound and some modern implements, with a certain technical edge, which makes it a nice companion piece to Ktulu's same year's "Orden Genético". The music is mid-paced to up-tempo, with several more intense moments, and some stylish technical hooks: the cool technical thrasher "Domination", the excellent up-tempo riff-fests "Perpetual Sacrifice" and "Fatality Night", the heavy galloping "Walking to Destroy". "This is the World" and "Walk Strong" are more direct thrashers, put near the end, followed by the album closer: "Ger a Life"- a magnificent instrumental piece, with outstanding guitar performance (the leads in particular), and a whirlwind of tempos and moods. Quite well conformed with the demands of the day, this remained the band's only effort, who were apparently not willing to join the growing cohorts of modern thrash acts.

Everything will End Full-length, 1994

PERSECUTION (AUSTRALIA)

An excellent 4-track demo of aggressive thrash metal, sounding like a nice combination between Slayer and early Death, with some fast, semi-technical riffs ala Destruction also present. The sound quality is great, the musicianship is top-notch, but the mystery remains: where did these guys go after such a promising start?! With so much talent displayed it was obvious that this band could have owned the Australian extreme metal scene of the early 90's...

Tortured Existence Demo, 1989

PERSECUTOR (POLAND)

Cool thrash ala late 80's Slayer with a nice alternation between heavy, crushing riffs and faster, more intense ones. There is some presence of a more modern sound akin to Sepultura's "Chaos AD" ("The Art of Killing").

Demo Demo, 2007

My Space

PERSEIDAN (SPAIN)

This band's debut is very diverse- at times it's modern death metal, at times it's stupendous technical thrash, at times it acquires some gothic tendencies. The vocals also vary according to the sound changes- particularly impressive are those which are dead ringers for John Tardy from Obituary, as opposed to the more predominant, Chuck Billy-like ones. The album really starts very promising, with the first 2 tracks offering excellent aggressive technical thrash in the vein of Gammacide and early Invocator, but later the guys show a lot more up their sleeve, with the longer, calmer, gothic-laced "God's Rehearsal". After it faster, thrash/death songs take turns with softer, slower ones, creating a somewhat disjointed feeling. "Outside" is particularly impressive, "marrying" both sides of the music into one, resulting into a really fine dark progressive thrash/death piece, wiht never a dull moment throughout its 9-min. "Generous Murder", the closer, attempts something similar, but the overuse of Swedish death metal guitars, and the very long orchestral interlude in the middle, make it the lesser achievement.

New Method of Virtual Fiction Full-length, 2005

My Space

PERZONAL WAR (GERMANY)

The modern answer to Metallica. From the vocals which are very close to James Hetfield, to the riffs which on the first two albums are closer to the old, 80's Metallica, the similarities are very big. The last three albums stick close to Metallica, too, but the sound has moved towards the Black Album, and has become more modernized and more melodic with some alternative passages; far less impressive than their early works.

The Inside Full-length, 1998
Newtimechaos Full-length, 2000
Different But The Same Full-length, 2002
Faces Full-length, 2004
When Times Turn Red Full-length, 2005

My Space

PESTILENCE (HOLLAND)

This legendary technical death metal band have started with excellent thrash metal- aggressive and fast, with some slight technical moments, which later became the trade mark for the band, and distant death metal passages. "Malleus Maleficarum" opens the album in an aggressive, stylish way, with blistering technical guitars and aggressive vocal delivery, courtesy of the omnipresent Martin Van Drunen. "Parricide" thrashes with even more intensity, and already the thrash fan knows that this will be a perennial headbanging delight all the way. And this is exactly the case; "Chemo Therapy" suggests at the bigger technical potential of the band, later to find full realisation on the later releases. "Bacterial Surgery" is a thrashing masterpiece, where Van Drunen even tries to scream sky-high, and probably has found out that for the future he should try this only if his life depends on it (pun intended). "Cycle Of Existence" is another ball of fury, a hint that the band might be one of the first to join the growing death metal legions from Europe. Seldom can a debut album sound so professionally executed; a masterpiece after which it is not so hard to come up with another similar one, like "Testimony of the Ancients".

Malleus Maleficarum Full-length, 1988

My Space

PESTILENCE (USA)

Very well executed aggressive thrash similar to Sepultura's "Beneath the Remains" and Devastation's "Signs of Life". The tempo is fast, the music is straight-forward without any technical hooks, but the sheer intensity of the material will keep you headbanging throughout the 4 tracks. Later the band changed their name to Horde of Torment where their style remained almost the same, only acquiring some slight hardcore tendencies.

Infected Demo, 1988

PHALANX (GERMANY)

Based on the debut, Phalanx play classic, semi-technical thrash somewhat akin to the Swiss Poltergeist (and more particularly, their debut). The tracks never get lost in technical wankery, but tend to lose their thrashy edge at times ("A Winter Day's Thought"), spiced with some quiet balladic sections, but are very catchy aided by the good, melodic vocal lines. (Some information about their second album would be very highly appreciated!).

The Judas touch Full-length, 1993
Look Behind The Mask Full-length, 1998

PHANTASM (RUSSIA)

This band play dark, brooding thrash/death metal with elements of doom, sounding like a fusion of Benediction and early Celtic Frost, enriched with some cool semi-technical guitars ala Morbid Angel. The tempo stays within the mid-range, but at times the guys speed up quite a bit, adhering even to blast beats whenever necessary.

Keeper of Death Full-length, 1993

PHANTASM (USA)

This band was formed by Ron Mcgovney after he left Metallica. Unfortunately, unlike Dave Mustaine, he couldn't break it big despite the recruitment of the drum wizard Gene Hoglan and Katon W. Depena from Hirax on vocals. The style is actually not too distant from Hirax consisting of short speed/thrash outbursts, but is a bit more technical and aggressive. Looked like a beginning of a successful career, but...

Demo '84 Demo, 1984
Wreckage Demo, 1987
Wreckage Best of/Compilation, 2001

PHANTASMAGORIA (POLAND)

Based on the "Furiosis" demo, these guys play decent, aiming at the old school power/thrash. The final track is a somewhat dodgy version of Iron Maiden's smashing hit "Aces High". There is certainly a potential here, but it has to be displayed in a better way.

Furiosis Demo, 1999
Psychical Seeings Demo, 2003

Official Site

PHANTOM CREW (USA)

This very obscure band play some awesome Bay Area thrash in the Testament, Exodus, Metallica- vein. For some mysterious reason, they never made it to the full-length album stage. Based on the "Thrashing Spree" compilation, their music was quite intense, featuring some more aggressive thrashers ("All Saints' Day"), but the predominant pace is mid to up-tempo, with sharp, cutting guitars and some stylish, but short leads. Some songs in the second half show that the band have acquired some of the modern tendencies, by adding groove, and reducing the cutting edge of the guitars ("Temptation", "Numb").

Phantom Crew Demo, 1989
Phantom Crew II Demo, 1991
Existence Demo, 1993
No Compromise Demo, 1994
A Visit From the Sewage Fairies EP, 1997
Still The Evil Stands Best of/Compilation, 2004
Thrashing Spree Best of/Compilation, 2005

Official Site

PHANTOM WITCH (USA)

Based on the split with Taking Over, this young band pull out quite good speed/thrash, reminiscent of the early works of Razor (but this is better) and Slayer, with touches from the American power metal scene ("Dark Allegiance"). "Necromancer's Curse" is an aggressive speed/thrashing delight, which will also remind you of Rigor Mortis, whereas "Spellbound By Satan" is pure Slayer worship, done with style.

Phantom Witch EP, 2007
Taking Over vs Phantom Witch Split, 2008

My Space

PHOBIC INSTINCT (GERMANY)

This is the next band with whom one of the legends of German thrash Mem Von Stein got invlved with, after his exit from Exumer. This album was recorded in 1989, but it saw the light of day almost 20 years later. The style is not a direct continuation of "Possessed by Fire", but is potent and intense thrash/crossover, which on its best moments reaches towards Slayer's "Reign in Blood": "Fatal Result", "Paranoic Stares", and most of the time the music is closer to thrash. The more crossover-based, jolly parts will definitely remind you of Suicidal Tendencies from around the same time ("Cop State"). The slower numbers are kind of awkward and unfocused ("Split Image"), sounding like pure hardcore. Stein's vocals are dirtier and lower-pitched, and that's good, because his apocalyptic high vocals could have been awkward here. "Plastic Brain" near the end recalls the bombastic speed/thrash of the Exumer's debut, accompanied by the slightly higher vocal delivery of Stein, and is the best song. This solitary effort remained Stein's last flirtation with metal for quite a few years.

A Second of Thought Full-length, 2008

PHOSSATERY (BRAZIL)

Very well done aggressive thrash/death metal, sounding like a more brutal and faster version of Sepultura's "Beneath The Remains". This is very fast stuff, also recalling Pestilence and Hellwitch; the guitars have a certain technical edge at times, but the concentration is clearly on speed, sometimes on the edge of falling apart, like on the insanely fast "For Whom It May Concern" and the 1.5-min outbreak "I'm Innocent", which is accompanied by some super vicious screechy vocals (the main ones are typical death metal growls). "The Last Night" reduces the speed on most parts, and is a really good stomping thrasher, with some melodic lines. "Army of Tomorrow" follows a similar pattern, but the ultra-fast middle break will make your head spin. "Depression", the album closer, finally shows mercy, being a much much slower, doomy atmospheric piece.

Obscure Feelings Full-length, 1994

PHYSICAL ATTRACTION (SWEDEN)

The crossover opener "Stones Are Cold" is totally misleading, as later one would hear more serious, and much more aggressive music. The sound is classic, with very slight modern leanings, and the riffs are crushing, with a slight technical edge at times. The tempo varies quite a bit, and the overall style recalls another one album wonder: Wrekking Machine and, respectively, Anthrax. The modern moments ("Life In Pain") are close to Flotsam & Jetsam and to a lesser extent, to Pantera. The crossover beginnings jump up here and there ("People With Power", "Someones Else's Words"), but are more intense and thrashy. "Master Of Disaster" opposes to the surrounding it faster-paced tracks, and introduces slower, pounding riffs, and some clean background vocals.

The Fool Lead the Blind Full-Length, 1994

PICA FIERCE (NORWAY)

Another great technical metal act is rising up from Norway. These guys follow on the steps of the great Scariot; based on the "A Spiral of Violence" demo, this is first rate technical thrash/death metal which is not too far from the first two Scariot albums. Smashing technical riffs and nice melodic guitar work will make your day. The vocals are similar to Scariot again, a mixture of rough death-ish and clean ones. The band have achieved a kind of a feat, performing a full heavy metal version of the opera "Faust" with the Kristiansund Symphonic orchestra in the Kristiansund Operahouse, with Nils K. Rue (Pagan's Mind) singing one of the main parts.

Urbania Demo, 2001
A Spiral of Violence Demo, 2002
Reptile Demo, 2004

Official Site

PIECE DOGS (USA)

A typical for the early 90's power/thrash affair, hesitating between the classic and the modern sound; at times the music leaves the thrash field, and goes for some pop-metal, and even hard-rock-ish elements.

Exes for Eyes Full-length, 1992

PILEDRIVER (CANADA)

Piledriver is the main band of Gord Kirchin who was also responsible for Dogs With Jobs and Convict. With the help of Edward Pursino from Virgin Steele, he manages to create one of the legends of Canadian thrash. The debut is a cool, melodic affair, mixing classic heavy metal with thrash. The songs are catchy and memorable, topped by the characteristic vicious, semi-clean vocals of Kirchin. The complaint is that with the exception of the short energetic "Sodomize The Dead" and the more aggressive "Pile Driver", the other material flows in the same vein, mid-tempo to slow, reaching its culmination on the slightly boring and repetitive, 7-min long "Wutchunt". The album closer "Alien Rape" is even longer, but at least there is more variety, including some attempts at a faster play.
"Stay Ugly" is a much better effort, now a full-blooded speed/thrash metal affair, boasting intense, and very catchy numbers, like the speedy opener "The Incubus", the marvellous combination of speedy, galloping and stomping riffs "Chaos", the great galloping thrasher "Lords of Abomination", the sinister "Flowers of Evil", and every other one. Although here the pace is mostly fast and doesn't really slow down a lot, because of the relative short length of the songs and the sharp, energetic guitar work, this album is a very satisfying listen, with not a single dull moment. The band later transformed into Dogs With Jobs- another very good band, but more melodic, with a more ordinary power/thrash metal sound.

Metal Inquisition Full-length, 1985
Stay Ugly Full-length, 1986

Official Site

PILLAGE SUNDAY (USA)

Thrash/crossover close to Lawnmower Deth, maybe a bit heavier, and less enjoyable.

The Blitz Has Begun Demo, 1988

PIRANHA (GREECE)

Basen on 2-song "Cancer", this trio play excellent dark gothic classic thrash, spiced with some haunting keyboard melodies, which work fine with the sharp, up-tempo riffs and the harsh, death metal vocals.

The Exorcist Demo, 1990
The Gate Demo, 1991
Worlds Grave EP, 1992
Cancer Single, 1993
Promo Tape Demo, 1998

PIRANHA (USA)

This band was formed by Paul Baloff (R.I.P.) after his exit from Exodus. The styler is not too far from the Exodus debut album, with Baloff giving his best behind the mike. His departure to pursue further glories in Heathen put an end to Piranha's existence. After things didn't work out in the Heathen camp, Baloff reformed the band, but either the lack of inspiration or interest left this stage of the band's career fruitless.

1988 Demo, 1988

PIRAÑA (MEXICO)

An interesting EP featuring some both classic and modern thrash as well as some more intense, death-like moments. The last track sounds as though directly taken from Paradise Lost's "Shades Of God".

Pirana Attack EP, 2005

Official Site

PIROSAINT (CHILE)

This is an interesting band: on their only EP you can hear 90's aggro-thrash riffs ala Pantera mixed with some quite technical ones, plus some more atmospheric moments where the lead guitar does a very good job. The music is mostly mid-paced, with some occasional up-tempo moments; quite well done recalling the style of the Andy LaRocque and Co.'s formation IllWill.

New God EP, 1997

Official Site

PISSING RAZORS (USA)

Pretty standard modern thrash metal along the lines of Pantera and Machine Head, with some industrial touches recalling Fear Factory and Puncture.

Psycho Punko Metal Groove Full-length, 1996
Pissing Razors Full-length, 1998
Cast Down The Plague Full-length, 1999
Fields of Disbelief Full-length, 2000
Where We Come From Full-length, 2001
Evolution Full-length, 2003

My Space

PIT (USA)

Modern, heavy power/thrash metal with some classic heavy metal tunes thrown in for good measure.

Carnival Licence Full Length,1996

PITCH BLACK (PORTUGAL)

With an album-title like this, you really have to be confident about the quality of your music. And Pitch Black don't disappoint, providing us with a decent slab of mostly classic thrash with various influences- Exodus, Sepultura (their early 90's period), Slayer, Defiance. The music is moderately fast, never speeding up too much, and as such offers some cool thrashers ("Beheaded", "Divine Not Human", "Pitch Black", etc.). The guitars have a dry, mechanical sound, but the music is predominantly old school, with a modern production. This sound suits better the slower, stomping tracks: "Suffochate", but these are the moments when the band sound close to Prong. The vocals are also similar to the ones of Tommy Victor, sometimes sounding awfully industrialized.

Thrash Killing Machine Full-length, 2005

My Space

PITCH BLACK FORECAST

These guys pull out modern groovy thrash, which nicely speeds up unexpectedly: the short headbanging number "Wrapped in Plastic", the longer half-groove, half-retro thrash "Lighthouse", and the slower, but still energetic "Ornament".

Absentee Full-Length, 2008

PITCHBLACK (DENMARK)

Very good thrash/death metal of the modern type, quite energetic, with some technical leanings, which brings it close to late period Death at times. There are the typical blast beats and clean vocals, but they are not annoying, and are used appropriately. Apart from the faster, more technical numbers, one can hear some slower, softer moments ("Angelized", "Queen Of All Kings"), with some epic "decorations", as well a great short acoustic instrumental ("A New Era"). When the guys decide to be merciless, they can rank among the best from the contemporary thrash/death metal scene: the speedy riff-fests "Satanic Majesty" and the closing "Heart Of Darkness".

Designed To Dislike Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PITIFUL REIGN (UK)

Very good classic 80's thrash influenced by Slayer and Vio-lence, among others. The albums starts with the heavy, up-tempo "Toxic Choke", featuring very heavy, crushing riffs and very good bass support. Later more aggressive, faster tracks show up ("In The Pits"), adding more energy, which stays till the end, making this short (only 7 songs) affair a really good headbanging fest.

24 Litre Killer EP, 2005
Toxic Choke Full-length, 2006
D.I.V.E EP, 2007

My Space

PITONI (SLOVENIA)

Based on the first demo, this band play an interesting kind of thrash/crossover- heavy, groovy with more aggressive, lower-pitched hardcore-vocals (some semi-rap ones also involved). At times the music might remind you of the last Xentrix album, but Pitoni vary things more by including some atmospheric, progressively- tinged passages as well as other non-metal instruments (pipes on "Paranoia"- a nice touch!). Despite the very varied nature of this recording, it certainly contains enough smashing thrashy riffs to keep fans of the genre interested.

World around me Demo, 1997
Kdo je bogu bog? Demo, 2003
Core9 (korenine) Demo, 2003

Official Site

PIXIE KILLERS (DENMARK)

Arguably the best thrash metal album to ever come out of Denmark. Their name will call many other music genres to mind, but not metal. And that's a pity, because apparently this is the main reason why this band remained in the shadow of Invocator, Artillery, etc. In terms of musicianship these guys are by no means worse than those bands, and are actually better. The music is awesome thrash which draws comparisons to early Testament, Anthrax, late period Helstar, and... Artillery (the technical guitar work at times). One can find straight aggressive headbangers: "I Recall Evil", but the concentration is on the heavier, more technical side of the music, and songs like "Conscience" and the magnificent closer "Poottah" could be very well fitting even on masterpieces like Helstar's "Nosferatu" or Testament's "The Legacy". The pace is quite energetic, and gets lost for a while on the very good semi-ballad "Strubesnittersangen (Throatcuttersong)". The singer sonds quite close to Helstar's James Rivera, maybe a little lower pitched.

One Size Fits All Full-length, 1993

PLAGUE ALLEGIANCE (USA)

Excellent riff-oriented classic thrash metal; fast and aggressive, with an obvious Slayer and Devastation-vibe. The vocals are more melodic, bearing resemblance to Joey Belladonna. After the short aggressive opener comes a heavier, longer track ("101 ways to Die"), which slows down considerably, but the speed returns with the explosive "Pain Remains the Same", and never leaves again. The closing track "Things in the Wall" sneaks some more technical moments, but the very aggressive riffage stifles it.

Demo Demo, 1990

PLAGUE OF SHEOUL (USA)

This band are another pretender for the new At The Gates. Here the music is more of a thrash/death combination, and is quite fast, with frequent adherence to blast beats. The sheer brutality actually nicely contrasts to the melodic guitar lines, and almost every track has a thrashy mid-break.

Spoken Into Existence Demo, 2006

PLECTOR (SWEDEN)

Modern thrash/death metal with brutal low-tuned vocals. The guitar work is fairly cool, with some jumpy riffs involved at times ("Destroy You"), but there is some groove present as well. The more attractive side are definitely the up-tempo thrashing pieces, like "Get Drunk Or Die Trying".

Suppressed Aggression EP, 2008

My Space

PLUNDER & PILLAGE (USA)

These are the same guys who also take part in two other bands: Bound for Glory, and Before God. Based on "Desolate", this band play a style close to the hardcore-tinged one of Bound for Glory. The music has its more energetic, thrashy momets ("Fry Mumia"), but often does it degenerate to dragging groove ("Unscarred", "The Liar", "Desolate). A cool touch is the couple of jolly, punk-ish numbers ("Live, Die, Understand", "Forceful Salutation") which lift up the mood.

Lights Out Full-length, 1999
Desolate Full-length, 2001

POINT BLANK (USA)

Thrash/crossover quite similar to early Suicidal Tendencies, or more melodic D.R.I., finished with a jolly hardcore cover of Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water".

Point Blank EP, 1990

POISON (GERMANY)

After a long line of demos (the first ones contain some of the rawest-sounding metal ever recorded) dating back from 1984, this band finally made it to the official release stage with this one. The improvement over the demos is obvious, but the sound still remains raw, noisy, brutal and primitive. This is mostly black/thrash with touches of doom and even power metal with influences coming from Celtic Frost, Bathory, Bulldozer, among others; a cult release, if we ignore the almost complete lack of any musical merits.

Into The Abyss Full-length, 1993

My Space

POISON (JAPAN)

Based on the "Hot Rod" EP, these guys offer energetic speed/thrash with nice melodic guitar work, and gruff, undeveloped dirty vocals, which surprisingly come up with some cool melodic lines from time to time. There is a certain crossover vibe in the delivery, but pieces like the smashing "Combat" thrash with conviction and power. "Kill and Killers" is a good speed metal number, with a nice punk-ish melodic break in the middle.

Doku EP, 1985
Hot Rod EP, 1986
Mystery Temptation EP, 1986
Hi-Energy Single, 1988
Kick Rock Full-length, 1988
Attack of 4 Tribes Split album, 1988
Game of Death Split album, 1989
One Hundred Dragon Full-length, 1989
Poison Arts Full-length, 1989
Rising Sun Full-length, 2008

POISON ASP (GERMANY)

The demo is pure speed metal, quite well done, not too far from early Helloween and Vectom. The EP is truly a revelation, featuring some awesome thrash; the tempo is not that fast anymore, and the guitars are considerably more technical, calling to mind the Swiss Apocalypse's debut and early Megadeth.

Schizoid Nightmares Demo, 1987
Beyond the Walls of Sleep EP, 1990

POISONGOD (BRAZIL)

PoisonGod offer a sound similar to the one of quite a few of their compatriots, in other words classic Germanic thrash reminiscent of early Destruction, with touches of the Bay Area scene. The music is actually quite good, and nicely moves from some heavy, slower tracks ("Bullets") to some really cool headbangers ("Genesis Protocol"). Somewhere in the middle you might get startled by the sudden outburst of aggression, coming from "Daemoncracy"- a more death metal-based song with a strong nod to Death; a very good number with nice leads and sharp riffs. No more surprises till the end, as the rest returns to the retro thrash metal formula, but staying on a more intense level.

Daemoncracy Full-length, 2007

Official Site

POLLUTED (FINLAND)

Cool, Slayer-influenced thrash metal; good riffs and solos from the chaotic, Kerry King-type.

Nuclear Threat Demo, 2004

POLTERGEIST (SWITZERLAND)

One of the few, but very high quality Swiss thrash metal bands. "Depression" is a very good effort of 80's speed/thrash of a more ordinary nature, compared to the works of their compatriots (Celtic Frost, Coroner, Apocalypse). It still thrashes hard, with conviction ("Three Hills", "Depression"), sounding no worse than Paradox (decidedly better than their debut, but nos as impressive as "Heresy"), combining speed and thrash in a more conventional, but quite enjoyable way. The bass work is particularly strong on this one.
Then their singer AndrÚ Grieder went to replace Marcel ``Schmier`` in Destruction for the recording of "Cracked Brain", but it was only a one-album spell. With his return from Germany, he must have brought some of the technical greatness of this album, because "Behind My Mask" is first class technical speed/thrash, the band's finest hour. The pace is quite energetic, but the guitars are much more technical and sharp. This time the guys sound almost as convincing, as Paradox on "Heresy", the similarity with this album coming also from the choruses. There is an improvement in the lead epartment, although the increased technicality in the guitar sound leaves little room for the bass. "Grave" is an interesting track, starting in a more aggressive, faster manner, but in the middle it becomes more experimental, with some funky passages, before it moves to a quiet, balladic ending. "Chato's Land" is another more peaceful track, slower and more melodic. The closing song "Drifting Away" follows a similar pattern, but at this point the listener has already received his doze of headbanging thrash.
On "Nothing Lasts Forever" the band adopted a more melodic power/thrash sound with longer, more complex songs of a more progressive nature. The opener "Only You Remain" will be a shock to those who would expect another high-octane, technically charged speed/thrash; it's melodic, atmospheric power metal with a nice chorus. "Empty Inside" is much more aggressive and thrashier, but the guitars are not that sharp. Later more complex, longer songs take turns with faster speed/thrashers, but numbers like the acoustic ballad "Never Again", the progressively tinged "You've Seen Your Future", and the American power metal-influenced "Darken My Mind" show that the band has moved on, broadening their horizon. It still has its appeal to the thrash metal fanbase, and is more than a worthy exit from the scene, compared to the transformations which other bands experienced during the 90’s.

Depression Full-length, 1989
Behind My Mask Full-length, 1991
Nothing Lasts Forever Full-length, 1994

Vibrations of Doom

POLYMETAL (CZECH)

Based on the "Trash´N´Roll" demo, this band offer what they promise: melodic speed/thrash with a rock'n roll edge, but this is a more intense stuff than the Motorhead, or Exciter works, albeit not much more. There are clear shades from the already formed 90's speed/power metal scene, mainly expressed in the infectious, catchy choruses, and the cool ballad with the very aggressive name: "Agresor". The sound quality is a bit muddy, but it can not stand on the way on the good, melodic leads.

Hazardní hráè Demo, 1989
Ve znamení køíže Demo, 1992
Trash´N´Roll Demo, 1994
Live 95 Demo, 1995
Rodnej hrob Full-length, 1995
Polymetal 96 Full-length, 1996

Official Site

PONTIUS PROPHET (USA)

This band is the continuation of Agent Steel and this two-song demo follows the same direction of excellent speed/thrash, with John Cyriis' wailing vocals in top form, as always. Unfortunately, things didn't work out again, and the band members scattered in various directions leaving a small, but memorable trace on the field.

Rites of Hatred Demo, 1988

POPULATION REDUCTION (USA)

Based on the EP, this is a blend of thrash and death metal and grind-core, which is becoming more and more popular these days; furious music, represented by short, explosive tracks, but there is a fair amount of thrashy riffage involved.

At The Throats of Man Forever EP, 2005
Each Birth A New Disaster Full-length, 2008

Official Site

PORTALL (HOLLAND)

Based on "In The Absence Of Light" demo, Portall play heavy, groovy thrash with some cool, melodic lead guitar.

First Demo Demo, 2003
Second demo Demo, 2003
In The Absence Of Light Demo, 2005

Official Site

POSEIDON (GERMANY)

A cool 3-song EP of classic German speed/thrash metal along the lines of Vectom and Toxic Shock. The guys interestingly mix straight classic heavy metal sections with furious speed/thrash ones which, surprisingly, sound quite cool. This mixture repeats on each of the 3 tracks, only failing to achieve the desired result on the last one: "Violence" which, despite its violent title, is the softest piece here, sounding like early Vectom, and another German act from the same time: Steeler; it still carries the speed/thrash spirit, but the softer heavy metal sections seem to dominate.

The Final Gate EP, 1989

Vibrations of Doom

POSER DISPOSER (CANADA)

Based on the first EP: vicious, aggressive thrash/crossover with some brutal grind-core attacks and an interesting speed/power-like chorus on "Seagulls".

You don't Count EP, 2003
Victims of a Bong Raid EP, 2006
Waiting to Inhale Full-length, 2006

My Space

POSSESSED (USA)

An essential band in metal history, mainly for their debut which is largely considered the first real death metal album. And, indeed, with its raw, primitive, aggressive sound "Seven Churches" has definitely been an influence on the death metal movement. Their second effort has a more accessible thrash sound, but is quite impressive, too. With "The Eyes Of Horror (produced by Joe Satriani) the band took a more ambitious step towards guitar -driven, technical thrash which was clearly a sign for something great to come. Alas, this remained Possessed's final work for a long time.

Seven Churches Full-length, 1985
Beyond the Gates Full-length, 1986
The Eyes of Horror EP, 1987
Ashes From Hell EP, 2006

Official Site

POSSESSION (USA)

A great mixture of thrash and death metal. The vocals are particularly twisted, ranging from unholy death growls to some banshee-like screeches not too far from King Diamond. The music is fairly technical and intense, but there are songs which are longer and slower, with a touch of doom.

The Unnameable Suffering EP, 1993
Eternally Haunt Full-length, 1995
Scourge & Fire EP, 1997

POSSUÍDO PELO CÃO (BRAZIL)

This band is a side-project of Poney Ret (Violator). The demo title suggests some relations to the Possessed's ground-breaking debut, and, indeed, the sound has some similarities to it, but it's more along the lines of some 80's thrash/crossover bands, but with a more aggressive, thrashy edge, often crossing the border towards Exodus and other Bay Area acts. It might sound as an awkward mixture, but its' not: this is a very good headbanging stuff which will hopefully find its full realisation on an official release soon.
The full-length fulfills all the promises, thrashing with confidence and gusto. The approach is not too different from the demo: energetic speedy thrash/crossover, sometimes pure thrash aggression ("Air Mail Surgery"), sometimes going over the thrash limits, into proto-death territory ("Catholic Beast"), and generally the sound is quite brutal and fast-paced, with tracks seldom exceeding the 1-1.5min limit. The only more laid-back number is the Attitude Adjustment cover "Grey World", but just a part of it.

Semen Churches Demo, 2006
Possessed to Circle Pit Full-Length, 2008

My Space

POST MORTEM (USA)

Based on the debut, this band have one of the most unconventional approaches to thrash metal. The music is mostly slow, doomy with a very abrasive, hardcore-ish, indifferent sound, with riffs which virtually go nowhere, and don't differ much from one song to the other, making the album sound as one very long track. This minimalistic approach might remind you of Amebix, but these guys are more impassionate, and much more patient going through this plodding listening experience. Albums like that stretch the genre too far, and those who prefer to stay within the confines of more standard music, should better leave this alone; on the other hand, some may find it a sheer genius. Their later works take a U-turn from thrash, and are an eclectic mixture of various styles: doom, psychedelic, hardcore, groove, sludge, and more.

Coroner's Office Full-length, 1986
The Missing Link EP, 1987
Festival Of Fun Full-length, 1991
Destined for Failure Full-length, 1993

My Space

POSTMORTEM (ESTONIA)

Based on "Bloody Justice Comes": this band play thrash/death with a classic edge. Some songs are more death metal-styled ("Mentally Insane"), coming with some nice melodic hooks, whereas others are pure thrash pieces ("Souls Tyranny"), spiced with some atmospheric, slower sections. The best, however, comes from those mixing both styles, also served with more stylish guitar work: the heavy, dark "Exile", or the faster technical, Pestilence-like "Prince of Darkness". "Farewell Melody" is a surprisingly melodic, but very cool touch: atmospheric, gothic-tinged instrumental. "Drowned in Dirt" is a masterpiece of technical thrash/death, combined with some slower, atmospheric, brooding tunes.

Bloody Justice Comes Full-length, 1996
The Call of the Sea Full-length, 1997
The Victory Day! Full-length, 2006

Official Site

POSTMORTEM (SPAIN)

Based on the "Raw Survival" demo, these guys mix fast, aggressive thrash, quite close to the Swedes Merciless debut, and the French Massacra ("Questions") with heavy, stomping riffs (which are more): "Blood Angel". The mixtures of the two sides seem to work best: the nice more comlex "Misery Empire". The excellent "Raw Survival" carries the death metal spirit, and is the most aggressive number here.

Raw Survival Demo, 1992
Renaissance Demo, 1994

POSTWAR (BRAZIL)

This is heavy modern, mostly mid-paced thrash along the lines of the Danes Grope and Machine Head's early, more edgy period ("The More Things Change..."), but these guys are not strangers to some good Bay Area riffage ("Slave Your Sinful God", and elsewhere); apart from that this is cool crushingly heavy, bass-driven music.

Attack Demo, 2006

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POTENTIAL THREAT (USA)

Based on the first 2-song demo, this is excellent fast-paced thrash metal akin to Vio-lence's "Eternal Nightmare" and Blessed Death's "Destined for Extinction".

Demo #1 Demo, 1988
Demo #2 Demo, 1990
2002 Demo Demo, 2002
2.0 EP EP, 2005

Official Site

POUNDING DEMISE (GERMANY)

Based on the "Only Death Remains" demo, this band play very good technical thrash/death metal which base is Death's "Human", or even Pestilence's "Testimony of the Ancients", but the sound clings more towards thrash, and here one can hear some atmospheric sections where even clean vocals are involved (see where the influences on the modern scene come from!), as opposed to the basic aggressive, Max Cavalera-like ones. The tempo is energetic, and there are sharp technical riffs aplenty for the thrash/death metal fans to enjoy.

Only Death Remains Demo, 1991
Children of the Abyss Demo 1993

POWER (GERMANY)

The band's habit at painting their faces in a manner similar to Kiss does not do them a very big favour, as their music is masterful classic thrash which crosses the European and American school in an admirable way. In the guitar department one can hear interesting, semi-technical riffs which strangely remind me of the Brits Hydra Vein and, respectively, Destruction. They carry the album through most of the time, but there is also a certain presence of heavier guitars bringing to mind Slayer's late 80's period, as well as straight Bay Area pounding ala Vio-lence and Exodus. "Roll the Dice" is more Bay Area and late 80's Slayer-oriented, partially abandoning the more technical approach of the debut, with a more aggressive sound, but is another stellar effort.

Thrashblitz Full-length, 2004
Roll the Dice Full-length, 2007

Official Site

POWER GATES (JAPAN)

Thrash/death metal along the lines of Ghoul and Frightmare, but this is more brutal, with a more frequent adherence to grind-core blast beats, and very low-tuned death metal vocals. Still there are enough thrashy riffs, although some of you might lose their patience while waiting for the next grind-core attack to pass. If nothing else, at least those fo you who have waited until the end, will be able to enjoy one full-blooded thrasher: "Russian Roulette"- quite good number, if we, of course, exclude the absolutely unnecessary grinding section at the end.

Shout At The Evil Full-length, 2005

My Space

POWERLORD (USA)

A very good album mixing power, speed and thrash metal similar to early Exciter, Agent Steel's debut or Attacker's "Second Coming". "Masters Of Death" is a fine opener, with dynamic, galloping tempos, and powerful, semi-clean vocals, which are not strangers to some high-pitched screaming, whenever necessary. "Malice" is a cool speed metal piece, followed by "Silent Terror": slower, power metal-oriented. "The Invasion Of The Lords" is a smashing speed/thrasher, in the best tradition of the Agent Steel's debut. "Merciless Titans" starts as a calmer power metal track, but later evolves into another thrashing delight. "The (The Awakening) Powerlord" is the definitive American speed/power metal hymn, a graceful closer to this short, but commendable effort.

The Awakening Full-length, 1986

Vibrations of Doom

POWERMAD (USA)

This band reached a much wider audience due to the cult director David Lynch who included their song "Slaughterhouse" in the soundtrack for his hit "Wild At Heart". This track is the opener for their full length which is fairly entertaining speed/thrash metal, with some classic heavy metal numbers pushed towards the second half of the album, which creates the impression that the two halves had been recorded at a different time. Although "Slaughterhouse" remains the best song on the album, there are other impressive, energetic speed/thrashers: "Absolute Power", "Test the Steel" (which has a touch of early Helloween), as well as a nice short technical piece: "Return from Fear". Then begins the second half, which still holds one more aggressive surprise: "Fallsafe", among the longer, slower, more melodic, and less impressive numbers.

Powermad EP, 1987
Absolute Power Demo, 1987
The Madness Begins... EP, 1988
Absolute Power Full-length, 1989

Official Site

POWERS COURT (USA)

Based on "The Red Mist Of Endenmore", this band play excellent power/thrash with a slight technical edge. This is really great stuff, which is sometimes energetic and up-tempo, sometimes is heavy and mid-paced (the magnificent crushing thrashterpiece "There Once Was A Time"). The tempos often change, and the riffs are very sharp, accompanied by stylish melodic hooks. The overall style is close to early Iced Earth, Eidolon and the Swedes Pathos, but these guys seem to thrash harder (check out the marvellous riff-fest "Darkness Calls"!, and every other song). The riff-work dominates, leaving little room for the leads, which are short and would pass through your ears without notice most of the time, while waiting for the next thrashy section to arrive. "Vain Regrets" is a nice semi-ballad, coming as a very well-deserved break for the guys near the end, before the aggression begins once again, but just for one more effort: the marvellous intense speed/thrasher "Cold Day in Hell". The singer has a unique, thin, highly-strung melodic tember, which suits the hard music fine, although some might find it too soft for the style.
"Nine Kinds of Hell" is another great effort, but is probably not as striking; the songs are longer, and the sound is more melodic, sticking to the power metal formula more often. The arrangements are more complex, with obvious pretensions for the tag "progressive": the 8-min "Conquistador", which is actually a ballad, with nice epic melodies, but will not appeal to thrash metal fans a lot. Still, there are nice moments, like the energetic power/thrashing opener "The Tragedy of Faust"; the galloping speed/power metal number "Devil's Triangle"; the technical jumpy power/thrash piece "Tanzania"- a magnificent song, with brilliant Oriental melodies and sharp riffs- the highlight of the album; the nice atmospheric heavy "House of Sorrow"; the excellent intense up-tempo thrashy closer "Emptiness". The singer sings even higher here, to the extent of sounding clearly operatic at quite a few times, which might be annoyance to some. This is really an entertaining listen, showing the band in a less aggressive light, concentrating on atmosphere, melody and more thought-out delivery.

Powers Court Full-length, 1996
Nine Kinds of Hell Full-length, 2001
The Red Mist Of Endenmore Full-length, 2008

Official Site

PREACHER (USA)

Raw, aggressive and generally fast thrash metal which surprisingly sounds closer to the early days of the Brazilian metal scene; the band's style is similar to Sarcofago, Vulcano, Sextrash, early Bathory, too (it has a certain black metal flavour at times). Preacher are probably better musicians than the aforementioned bands, but their approach is pretty much the same- evil and relentless black/thrash attack.

Trapped In Hell EP, 1987

My Space

PRECIOUS DEATH (USA)

Based on "Southpaw": I could have blamed these guys for shamelessly copying the Flotsam & Jetsam's "Cuatro" at times, if this album hadn't been released a bit earlier. The other target for worship is Death Angel's "Act III". So what we have here is power/thrash simillar to the Flotsams' transformation in the 90's, but this one is not as good, inserting some funk elements ala Mordred and Death Angel, but when the guys do this, they completely forget about the metal riffs, and these parts are simply bad, having nothing to do with metal. There are also quite a few balladic and heavy/power metal moments. It's only the heavy, pounding guitar work akin to the one in "Quatro" ("No-Can-Do", "Force Fed") which strikes a cord; the rest is nothing more than a failed attempt to sound original, resulting in a very uneven and unconvincing mixture. The band's last, self-titled debut is awful nu-metal, the lowest possible bottom a once thrash metal act could reach.

Southpaw Full-length, 1993
If you Must Full-length, 1994
Precious Death Full-length, 1996

My Space

PRECIPICE (USA)

This is a project of two members of Hellwitch. Based on the two demos, the style is not too far removed from the father band; this is a thrash/death mixture, with more concentration on technicality than on speed (although some songs excel on speed, too), and more atmospheric, with some slower, gothic-tinged passages. The songs here are longer, and the time changes and the great technical riffs keep them interesting throughout. The vocals are totally opposite to the unholy snarls of Hellwitch: deep low death growls. Fans of Massacra, Atheist and Death would also want to check this band out.

The Foundation Demo, 1994
Black Sun Rising Demo, 1995
Prophet of Doom Full-length, 2001

Official Site

PREJUDICE (BELGIUM)

Based on "Reality", this is chunky, technical thrash/death metal, quite well done, similar to Atheist and Chemical Breath. This is really compelling music, with some of the finest technical riffs in a while and head- spinning time changes. Reportedly their next album moves into the brutal technical death metal realm, and would be of no interest to thrash fans.

Broken Promises Full-length, 1998
Reality Full-length, 2001
Dominion of Chaos Full-length, 2004

Official Site

PREMONITION (USA)

The band's debut demo is one of the finest gems hidden in the American metal underground of the 80's. It reminds in a magnificent way of some of the late 80's masterpieces: Torture's "Storm Alert", Forbidden's debut, Viking's "Man Of Straw", Helstar's "Nosferatu" and also Gammacide in the faster, more aggressive sections. The musicianship is on a very high level: very technical guitar work mixed with some speedy, intense parts and a great singer who uses his clean voice most of the time, but also does a very good job when he goes for the higher tones.
"Visions of Emptiness" might startle you a bit in the beginning, mostly because of the new singer who has this hardcore-ish blend in the voice, characteristic of the modern 90's bands' singers, but the music is nothing short of outstanding: superb technical thrash, not too far from the first demo, but less speedy, and more technical. The time changes would make even Coroner (who are the closest soundalike this time- think "Mental Vortex") and Mekong Delta pay attention, and the heavy riffs will crush you like a steam-roller. There is not much sheer aggression involved here, the concentration is purely on technicality and complex song structures which never lose focus, and are even graced with some nice leads.
The modern trends of the 90's have obviously affected the band's sound, and by the time of the release of their last demo, the music has almost completely transformed into heavy, groovy 90's thrash- not bad, but pretty derivative.

Demo 1989 Demo, 1989
Visions of Emptiness Demo, 1992
Brutal Healing Demo, 1993
The Human Condition Demo, 1995

My Space

PRENATAL END (GREECE)

Decent semi-technical thrash, with longer tracks and some cool guitar work, but the guys are not brave enough to come up with a more powerful technical sound. On top of that the pace is slow-ish to mid-tempo, and with the length of the songs exceeding the normal one, the overall sound is kind of monotonous, a feeling further aggravated by the clean, but weak one-pitched vocals, which can not be saved even by some nice balladic moments ("Pilgrims of Despair").

Pilgrims Of Despair Demo, 1989

PREPARED TO KILL (BRAZIL)

This is a good stuff with clear 80's thrash metal flavour- think Kreator, Destruction; the guys offer a Destruction cover at the end of "Thrash Hell Ultimate": "Curse The Gods".

When Death Calls Demo, 2002
Thrash Hell Ultimate Demo, 2004

My Space

PRESIDENT (SPAIN)

Based on the single, this is melodic power/thrash metal topped by some nice lead guitar work, resembling the works of German acts like Liar, Tyrant, early Risk, etc.

Fucked Nightmare Single, 1989
Have a Nice Trip Full-length, 1993

PRESIDENT EVIL (GERMANY)

A blend of stoner/doom and thrash metal; it might not sound very appealing, but some cool headbangers ("Boneless") could be found here. This is not hard-hitting music, but it's interesting to hear how these two contrasting styles could co-exist. "Hell in a Box" brings nothing new to the scene, maybe it sounds less thrashy, with less intense guitar-work, but happy rockers, like "King Asshole" will surely make you dance around.

Evil Goes To Hollywood EP, 2005
Thrash'n Roll Asshole Show Full-length, 2006
Hell in a Box Full-length, 2008

Offical Site

PRESSKOPP (GERMANY)

Groovy, industrialized modern thrash sounding like a mix between Puncture and heavier Pantera.

Demo Demo, 2000

Offical Site

PRESTIGE (FINLAND)

An average, typical thrash metal band of the old school. After failing to make any big impression with their first two albums, the band increased the aggression on their last one moving it towards the hardcore arena. This album actually packs a punch at times with its more unpolished production fitting for the rawer, more intense sound.

Veijo EP, 1989
Attack Against Gnomes Full-length, 1989
Selling The Salvation Full-length, 1990
Priest Single, 1990
Parasites In Paradise Full-length, 1992

Offical Site

PRIMAL SCREAM (USA)

Simplistic, basic thrash metal mixed with some crossover elements. The guys start quite well, with short direct thrashers ("State of the State", "War and Sin"), but the music partialy loses its edge, on more laid-back numbers ("Last Breath", "Kill the Light"). The intensity springs up here and there ("Ignorance Is No Excuse", "Mr. McCreedy") later on, as well as on the nice closer "Shot on Sight", which thrashes with force, combined with some stomping moments ala Celtic Frost.

Volume One Full-length, 1987

PRIME EVIL (USA)

Based on the "The Manifestation" demo, this band come up with a fairly interesting, semi-technical mixture of thrash and death metal which bears resemblance to Incubus' debut, and even Nocturnus, but there are also slower, heavier sections ala Celtic Frost, and although the guys definitely have the necessary skills to pull out something more complex like they show here and there, they prefer to stick to the more straight-forward thrash/death approach, which still delivers the goods.
The self-titled demo is direct aggressive thrash, bordering on death, not miles away from Dark Angel's "Darkness Descends" and Slayer's "Reign in Blood". "Living In Fear" slightly betrays the brutal character of the demo, being longer, a bit slower and more melodic, with a crossover attitude, and cool choppy riffs.

Prime Evil Demo, 1987
The Manifestation Demo, 1988
Industry Demo, 1990
Terminal Dementia Single, 1992
Unearthed Best of/Compilation, 2002

My Space

PRO-PAIN (USA)

This very popular, and prolific band started their career with three outstanding hardcore-laced albums, which remain their finest hour so far. With their self-titled release they moved more towards the thrash metal spectre, by retaining their hardcore base. There is no much variety between albums: energetic thrash/hardcore with some heavy groovy sections is what these guys offer, but it works well as their music has its appeal to metal fans of various tastes.

Foul Taste of Freedom Full-length, 1992
The Truth Hurts Full-length, 1994
Contents Under Pressure Full-length, 1996
Pro Pain Full-length, 1998
Act of God Full-length, 1999
Round 6 Full-length, 2000
Shreds of Dignity Full-length, 2002
Run For Cover Full-length, 2003
Fistful of Hate Full-length, 2004
Prophets of Doom Full-length, 2005
Age of Tyranny - The Tenth Crusade Full-length, 2007

My Space

PROD (CROATIA)

Modern thrash/death, mostly mid-paced and heavy, descending to gothic/black territories at times ("Spirals"), at times elaborating on the balladic side (the beginning of "Hera") . When the music picks more speed, it sounds quite cool ("Perforation Of Entity"), coming even with some compelling chaotic, semi-technical passages, but these moments are, unfortunately, rare.

A Dance for the Guns Demo, 2004

Official Site

PROFANATOR (MEXICO)

An album which richly deserves to take "the best metal debut" award for 2005: first rate 80's thrash along the lines of Destruction, with touches of Slayer and some genuine technical passages. This is great, energetic music, effortlessly combining more direct, headbanging riffs with some more intriguing, technical ones. The tracks are generally long-ish (in the 5-6min range), but are so diverse and easily flowing that you wouldn't find a dull moment there, even if you look very carefully. "666 Days To Follow" sums all that was so great about the 80's thrash scene in its 9-min: it begins in a heavier, semi-balladic manner, speeding up gradually before it turns into a full-fledged up-tempo thrasher (the music on the whole album very seldom sounds too aggressive), ending in the same quiet way the way it started. This is a more than a promising start for the band who are hopefully preparing something new in the near future.

Libido Clerico Full-length, 2005

My Space

PROFANCER (SINGAPORE)

These Singaporeans are obviously inspired by the early Brazilian thrash metal scene- Sarcofago, Sepultura, Volcano, etc. The music here is more amateurish, mostly mid-tempo, with some faster outbursts here and there. This is one-dimensional, and not very appealing stuff, despite some attempts at originality: the songs close with leads which start out of nowhere, and last for a few seconds, but offer nothing too technical.

Rest Without Peace Demo, 1990

Official Site

PROFECIA (ECUADOR)

Based on "VII Veces VII": cool retro speed/thrash with black metal vocals. The music is not all-out speed all the time, but contains some slower, almost doom-like tracks ("La 7ma. Trompeta", "Los Mil Años de Soledad", which also has a nice balladic ending). But when the guys speed up, they produce some really worthy pieces: "El Ocaso de los 7 Tiempos", "7 Times 7". The production qualities are not very good, having left the guitar sound too fuzzy, and the bass is put too much upfront on some songs. These guys seem to be obsessed with number 7- check the song titles (and the album title).

Anunciantes del Final Full-length, 1997
...Hacia el Armagedon Full-length, 1999
VII Veces VII Full-length, 2003

Official Site

PROGENY (ITALY)

A heavy, groovy blend of thrash and death metal, which at times picks up respectable speed and sounds quite appealing. The problem is that the guys do not forget about the groove, and it pops up quite a bit on those three tracks. The other good side of this single is that the band are not strangers to some more interesting guitar work, which has an intriguing surreal edge, not too far from the Voivod's 90's period with Eric Forrest, or the Polish Myopia. If we add some stylish atmospheric bass interludes ("Black Sun of the Humanity"), then you know you should check this out, at least out of curiosity. With more concentration on this side, these guys would have no problems sticking out of the metal crowd, especially in their home land, where there are very few bands right now who offer similar music.

Insanity Single, 2007

Official Site

PROJECT-BRAIN-STORM (GERMANY)

Based on the debut, this band play modern/classic thrash mixed with more traditional heavy metal. The final result is more on the melodic side with the presence of a few acoustic ballads, but also some up-tempo thrashers ("Abandon").

Truth Lies In The Eye Of The Beholder Full-length, 1999
Pain Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PROJECT: FAILING FLESH (USA)

This band boast the presence of the great Eric Forrest- the man who revived the Voivod career in the mid 90's. The base for the music is modern thrash/death, industrially tinged with many unusual tunes (violin solos, etc.), tempo changes and crazy song structures; quite unconventional, and might pull back the more level-headed fans. The last track will be a delight to everyone, though- a magnificent cover of Venom's "Warhead". "The Conjoined" follows the same path, featuring the same frenetic, non-standard mixture of the debut.

A Beautiful Sickness Full-length, 2003
The Conjoined Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PRONG (USA)

Prong's beginnings (the first two albums) were raw, energetic thrash/hardcore affairs, still considered one of the more uncompromising achievements from this sub-genre. The band abandoned their aggressive attitude on "Beg to Differ", settling down for a very original take on the modern 90's sound (at this time not fully developed yet), slow-ish, groovy, with a touch of industrial, and not a big presence of thrash, if any. Having forged an interesting style of their own, which lasted at least for one more full-length ("Prove You Wrong"), the guys brought the speed back on a few tracks from "Cleansing", resulting in a fine thrashy effort, ably supported by their more recent, modern approach, and is their finest hour at this point.
"Rude Awakening" is the band's most melodic, but no less impressive work, with no ties to thrash. Then Tommy Victor (the band's founder and frontman) put an end to the band's career, and got involved in other bands (Danzig, Ministry, Killing Joke), before returning with "Scorpio Rising" 7 years later. This album was a direct take on the band's hardcore past, still infused with their unique sound from the 90's; some of the tracks on that one surpassed in terms of aggression even the most furious numbers from their first two efforts, and it's these tracks which kind of didn't work out compared to the better, on a musical level, other material. "Power of the Damager" is a nice continuation of the more thrash-based sound from "Cleansing", and is almost as good.

Primitive Origins Full-length, 1987
Force Fed Full-length, 1988
Third From The Sun EP, 1989
The Peel Sessions EP, 1990
Beg to Differ Full-length, 1990
Prove You Wrong Single, 1991
Unconditional Single, 1991
Prove You Wrong Full-length, 1991
Whose Fist Is It Anyway? EP, 1992
Snap your Fingers, Break your Back (The Remix EP) EP, 1993
Cleansing Full-length, 1994
Rude Awakening Full-length, 1996
Scorpio Rising Full-length, 2003
Power of the Damager Full-length, 2007

Official Site

PROPHECY (USA)

On their only album these guys pl