LEGION OF THE DAMNED – “Poison Chalice” album review

Three decades, one as Occult and the other two as Legion of the Damned, the band from the Netherlands remains a constant value for death/thrash. This time, for the first time, the lineup of one of their albums is loaded with a second guitar and the difference is immediately heard. Full sound and solos that level up the compositions and the whole “Poison Chalice”. The reason for Fabian Verweij who gives more and what was needed. The positive thing is that at no point in the album do they sound like they are being repeated. Instead the guitar themes, riffs and solos are inspired and very well done. The rythm section gives incredible full-throttle porn and makes us pick up our pieces. The classic extreme vocals of Maurice Swinkels convey the theme, either death, anti-Christian, or occult. Erwin Hermsen has taken over the production and recording at his own Toneshed Recording Studio. It sounds strong and typical, according to the data of our time. The very good artwork has been edited by the Hungarian Gyula Havancsák. The demands of the time have risen quite a bit. Most bands have good productions, publicity is great and usually the older bands are racing to catch up. But many bands like Legion of the Damned, can have the confidence of both the name and the quality to stand in any condition. This seems to be the case with “Poison Chalice” and it stands up to the times.

Spyros Tribos
8/10

“Poison Chalice” tracklist:

1. Saints in Torment 04:20
2. Contamination 04:20
3. Progressive Destructor 04:34
4. Skulls Adorn the Traitor’s Gate 05:16
5. Behold the Beyond 06:44
6. Retaliation 04:08
7. Savage Intent 05:02
8. Chimes of Flagellation 04:23
9. Beheading of the Godhead 04:45
10. The Poison Chalice 04:18
total 47:50