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Thrash from Down Under. Ideaal tijdens slaapfeestjes.
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Review hieronder is niet van mij. Na 1 luisterbeurt moet ik zeggen dat het nogal volumineus klinkt :)

Review:

Harlott is one of those names that has done a tremendous amount for the 21st century revival of classic thrash metal. These Melbourne-based Australians have been active since 2006, and their 2013 debut, "Origin," demonstrated a band that truly understands the power of vintage thrash. Later, there were "Proliferation," "Extinction," and the excellent "Detritus of the Final Age" from 2020. We had to wait six years for a new album, so expectations for "Exsequiis" were high. This is especially true given that Harlott has developed a distinct identity over the years and is no longer just another band trying to copy Slayer or Exodus. The album was released on September 11, 2026.
And let me tell you right away – it was worth the wait. For me, "Exsequiis" is not only Harlott's best album, but one of the strongest thrash materials released in 2026. The Australians return here with tremendous energy, but at the same time, they show that they haven't stood still for six years. It's still uncompromising thrash metal, but more expansive, mature, and even better thought-out in terms of composition. The band has been around for 20 years and has five studio albums to their name, but their latest one proved to be their best. The band rose to the challenge and recorded a flawless album. Above all, it's mature, thoughtful, aggressive, and packed with hits. This isn't just fast-paced music. It's top-tier entertainment.

The greatest strength of "Exsequiis," however, lies in the guitars. Harlott doesn't limit himself to simple retro-thrash shredding. While the foundation is classic '80s and early '90s, there are also plenty of more technical solutions, tempo changes, and interesting transitions. At times, you get the impression that the musicians want to show how much more they can squeeze out of the classic thrash metal formula. And that's precisely why this album sounds fresh, despite its roots firmly rooted in the past. The Hudson/Bartley duo impresses with their harmony and ingenuity. Technically, they're adept, but they also manage to maintain a melodic edge. There's aggression and inventiveness to it all. This is the band's true strength. The whole thing is held together brilliantly by talented and accomplished thrash metal vocalist Andrew Hudson, who gives the music its aggression and catchiness.

The new album features 11 tracks totaling 46 minutes of music. Nothing but killer tunes and great shots, confirming the band's top form. Even " Incipiam ," the short intro, builds the tension before the real attack. And that comes with " Void ." This is the Harlott I like best – speed, aggression, great riffs, and Andrew Hudson's vocals, which don't try to be overly melodic. Instead, there's fury and just the right amount of venom. The guitars sometimes sound like a mix of classic Slayer, Kreator, and Exodus, but the Australians have enough of their own ideas that it can't be called a mere copy. A strong start, and that's just the beginning.

" Messiah Simplex," on the other hand, showcases the band's more melodic side. It's still heavy and fast, but there are more catchy passages and great guitar harmonies. It's moments like these that make "Exsequiis" more than just a one-dimensional album. Harlott can speed things up, slow things down, throw in a stronger riff or an extended solo, and still maintain their characteristic thrash energy. There's something for everyone, and the band doesn't play on one hoof, which is a big plus.

" Trial By Liar" is one of the album's most catchy tracks. It opens powerfully, with a great riff and a tempo that immediately grabs you. It's a song that begs to be played live. It's full of aggression, but it also has that crucial element that young thrash bands sometimes lack: memorability. Thrash metal at its finest, fully capturing the beauty of the genre. A superb tribute to such greats as Slayer, Exodus, and Testament.

"The God That Knows No Name" also performs very well . It begins with a slightly calmer, more heavy metal feel, but then the song gains momentum and transforms into a classic, heavy thrash riff. This is one of those tracks where Harlott demonstrates his skill in building tension. " Kleptogenesis, " on the other hand, is a real rollercoaster ride. Speed, aggression, and riffs that make it hard to sit still.

Next comes the feisty, incredibly aggressive "A Still More Glorious Dawn Awaits ," which is kept at a more subdued tempo. The band's more heavy metal side is surprising here, and it sounds truly incredible. Technical thrash metal also appears in the anthemic " The Joyful Stain ." It reminds me a bit of Death Angel and Overkill. The heavy metal elements add to the overall charm. Similar emotions are evoked by the dark " Ending ," which at times recalls Anthrax.

The fast-paced " Vice Borne" takes no prisoners. A thrash metal firecracker, and yes, my friends, thrash metal is played! What power and passion. The whole thing closes with the title track, which is a beautiful culmination. It's another thrash metal killer on the album.

After a six-year wait, Harlott is back stronger than ever. "Exsequiis" is an incredibly consistent album, full of excellent riffs and songs that stick in your head. There are no random compositions or long songs. Instead, there's plenty of energy, aggression, and that unmistakable feeling of listening to a band that truly believes in their music.

Harlott has crafted an album that can easily stand alongside the best contemporary thrash metal records. "Exsequiis" shows that classic thrash can still be fresh, furious, and exciting. For me, it's definitely the Australian band's best album and a contender for the top spot on my 2026 list. One of the biggest surprises of the year.