Merendine Atomiche
Walk Across Fire

June 2004
Released: 2004, Deadsun Records
Rating: 4.2/5
Reviewer: Waspman

It’s been quite some time since the metal scene has heard from Merendine Atomiche; 2001 to be exact. In the interim the Italian thrashers have been touring and diligently working away, perfecting the music that has now become their latest release, WALK ACROSS FIRE.

In comparison to their previous release (THE HOLY METAL), the band has changed their sound somewhat. Where before they were clearly heavily influences by ARISE-era Sepultura, they now have a more established sound of their own that is less thrash, and more traditional heavy metal. Also, vocalist Luca (one of three Luca’s in the band!) has developed a voice of his own, and sounds a lot less like Max Cavalera than he used to. The band has also slowed down the music somewhat, to a more mid-paced chug, and less full-on speedy thrash. That’s not to say that there are no fast parts on the album, but overall the music has eased off the throttle a bit, allowing the music to breathe and also showcasing the group’s improvement as songwriters.

In particular the solos on the album kickass, David Bisson firing off melodic leads like he’s a new guitar hero (maybe the influence of Jeff Waters has helped him – Waters contributes a solo to “Game Over”). In addition, the production has improved ten-fold over THE HOLY METAL, making each instrument clear and powerful. Plus, the band have laid claim to a great guitar tone that just shreds – check out the opening riff to “Walk Across Fire” for proof. Awesome!

It’s great to see Merendine Atomiche improving like this. A promising thrash band has become a great heavy metal band. Check them out for yourself to see what I’m talking about.