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HYPERIA
Silhouettes Of Horror

Self-released (2022)
Rating: 8/10

This Canadian melodic thrash metal combo has been quite prolific since forming around four years ago. In that short time they have released two full-length albums (including this one), an EP and a batch of singles.

Silhouettes Of Horror is a sizzling return. Forget the childish yet charming cover art, this 50-minute exercise in thrash really needs to be heard because this is some serious pummeling.

First up let’s just mention the vicious snarls of Marlee Ryley; her fiery throat snaps are frothy to the point of taking the band into death / thrash climes – think Crypta, then Nervosa. Meanwhile, the sound in general is a technical, yet controlled flurry that hints at everything and everyone from Annihilator to Kreator, and from Slayer to Sadus, yet with more melodious flashes.

Opener ‘Hypnagogia’ is just volatile, pure and simple; no gimmicks, just thrash that slices and dices. The axe work is scathing, the percussion on point, although the bass slightly drowned. Even so, it’s a hostile way to kick off the album and the snaps continue throughout.

‘Intoxication Therapy’ features a catchy, almost hardcore groove, where the streetwise edge brings Vio-lence to mind. While ‘Terror Serum’ is just balls out thrash, cutting and sniping like, say, Havok. So there’s definitely a modern feel to the record, but it’s not glossy or over-priced. And that’s why I hear nods to numerous classic sounds, whether it’s early Metallica or the fury of Dark Angel.

The title track stands out where again there’s that hooky intro and steely percussion as the band drives towards inevitable frenzy. ‘Severed’ hints at classic sneering Magadeth, and ‘Operation Midnight’ is just a flat out, no mercy maelstrom. The cover of ABBA’s ‘Gimme Gimme Gimme’, although unnecessary, is commendable and injects humour amongst the constant barbed attacks.

Silhouettes Of Horror is a rollicking opus and showcases the progression of the band. The stories contained herein are as thought-provoking as the musicianship, which literally strips the flesh.

As someone who is not a big fan of modern thrash, I have to say that Hyperia has done enough to sway this metalhead and in various directions due to its hostile yet melodic barrage.

Neil Arnold

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