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CHAINED SAINT
Blindside

Patriark (2024)
Rating: 8/10

Here’s a young Floridian foursome of Sean Sterling (vocals), Ethan Kahn (guitar), Sebastian de Avila (bass) and Cameron Cottrell (drums), who have just released their debut full-length album, Blindside.

Formed two years ago, Chained Saint is a teenage thrash combo bursting with raw energy as they dish out serrated and angry thrash aimed at a world in chaos. Although there are strong nods towards the 80s, the band delivers a very modern aggression, made all the more volatile by the production of William DuVall of Alice In Chains.

Chained Saint doesn’t mess around with gimmicks, this is pure attitude channelled through streetwise melodies as epitomised by the boisterous opening track ‘Animosity’. Sterling is a real livewire of a vocalist, ranting and twisting over a tirade of thrashy riffs and percussive tirades. Even with obvious thrash spine one does feel that these guys could veer into any musical direction and be comfortable. The thirst of the teen team is unquestionable as they furiously commentate on world issues with admirable exuberance.

Blindside runs for 40 minutes, the only slight negative being that some tracks are a shade too long. Even so, with many of the songs there is a brisk latter day mix of Slayer, Metallica and at times Exodus as those crisp riffs run with a snarling fluidity. As evidenced on ‘Stronger Than Stone (Blindside)’ it’s clear the band is also comfortable in a groove metal style. A good mix on offer then as the youthful skills of Death Angel spring to mind on several tracks, as do M.O.D., but most importantly the potential here is huge.

‘Neanderthal’ features a catchy organic riff circa Anthrax, while ‘Free Reign’ boasts a vintage Metallica traipse vibe as if the guys have been listening to Kill ’Em All for inspiration. But every track is rewarding, although if I was forced to pick a favourite then the brooding ‘Corrupt To The Core’ is my standout, especially with its speedier eruption.

Considering the amount of retro thrash out there, by keeping things simple Chained Saint has served up something rather special. Vigorously executed, this is a debut that surprises with its throwback thrash streaks which tap into not only nostalgia but a bright future for the posse.

Neil Arnold

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