RSS Feed


MALICIOUS INTENT
In The Dirt

Unholy Coven Productions (2023)
Rating: 7/10

Sadly this platter from Canadian thrashers Malicious Intent doesn’t signal the return of fellow countrymen of the same moniker who existed from 1987 to 1991. Instead, it is the debut full-length studio outing from an Edmonton, Alberta-based trio who formed in 2017 from the ashes of Diabolica.

In The Dirt is a rather short and snappy release clocking in at just under 25 minutes, and for that you get seven tracks. The men behind such thrashy outbursts are vocalist / bassist Chase Leclair, guitarist Matt Dery and drummer Dylan Mackay (who was recruited in 2021). The biggest surprise here are the vocals because Leclair has a rather deep and hoarse style, but his effective rants are certainly suited to the crossover blitz on offer.

As expected with such “hardcore” outbursts there are the generic tales of alcohol (‘Alcoholic Forces’) and toxic waste (‘Janitors Revenge (Swing Of The Mop)’) delivered with a level of zaniness not too far removed from the likes of Power Trip but with a strong, late 80s underground vibe. The title track packs a punch with its busy chugging, as does ‘Cerberus’, while ‘Countess Of Blood’ has a really gritty traipse.

All in all then, In The Dirt is a raw and aggressive release that is a worthy addition to the crossover collection.

Neil Arnold

<< Back to Album & EP Reviews



Related Posts via Categories
Share