The 10 Thrash Metal Albums You NEEDED To Hear in 2021 (January-March)

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Angelus Apatrida – Angelus Apatrida [Spain]

Released: February 5th, 2021 via Century Media Records

With more than a little Vulgar Display Of Power era Pantera informing much of Angelus Apatrida‘s sound, few could be forgiven for aiming accusations of plagiarism at these thrashin’ Spaniards!

However, similarities to established acts aside, Angelus Apatrida have been churning out quality thrash albums since 2006 and this, their self titled 7th effort, is as aggressive as they come. A balls to the wall thrash metal album with no time for filler, whether they’re throwing in oodles of groove on the likes of “Indoctrinate”, or going full on old-school on “We Stand Alone”, Angelus Apatrida remain 100% committed to the cause. 

What more could you possibly want from a thrash album in 2021? 8/10

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Nervosa – Perpetual Chaos [Brazil]

Released: January 22nd 2021 via Napalm Records.

With such a huge line-up change to contend with (only guitarist / vocalist Prika Amaral remains standing from the band that cut 2018’s Downfall Of Mankind), Nervosa could be forgiven for a shift in both sound and direction.

However, Perpetual Chaos is, for the most part, the logical next step for these Brazilian thrashers with their aggressive death / thrash echoing the brutality of prime Holy Moses while still sounding resolutely modern. While there’s nothing here to lift Perpetual Chaos out of second tier status its worth noting that the album gets by on momentum alone, with its untamed and savage approach proving teeth-gnashingly irresistible.

Appearances from Destruction’s Schmier and Flotsam and Jetsam’s Eric A.K. adds to the enjoyment and overall, despite such band turmoil, Perpetual Chaos can be considered an unmitigated success in the face of adversity! 7/10

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Detritus – Myths [UK]

Released: February 19th, 2021 via Embryo Industries

The return of cult old-school UK progressive thrashers Detritus was one none of us were expecting but return they have….and with their first album in 28 years!

Detritus dwell in experimental doom/thrash territory (apt considering their Seventh Angel connections) with Mark Broomhead’s harsh baritone bellow adding to the overall feel of overwhelming, crushing, mid-paced thrash brutality. 

Myths is not perfect by any means (“Tale Of Sadness” is somewhat of a misfire) but overall this is a hugely welcome return from a cult UK band whose early 90’s output – Perpetual Defiance (1990) and If But For One (1993) – also deserve to be lauded for their fearless and experimental nature! 

Detritus; it’s good to have you back! 7/10