Hmmm, don't really understand why they named their album Tools of the Trade when the mighty Carcass had an ep by the same title. Anyways, this black-thrash album isn't as good as Carcass' classic ep but it comes pretty close. After couple of releases on the ever trendy Hammerheart records, it seems that they've come to their senses and released this latest opus on the cult Holycaust Records. You might know this label from their past great releases such as Sabbat's "bloody countess" LP and Gehenna's "black seared heart" CD/LP. Ok, on to the music... Nocturnal Breed's brand of black thrash metal can be compared to the likes of Aura Noir and older Bewitched due to their use of grim black metal vocal style and clean production. I think the album could've used a little less production since I prefer a more dirty approach to recording metal music. I guess Tools of the Trade is like a mix between Seasons era Slayer and 90's black metal. I prefer this over Aura Noir and Bewitched for some reason, but I can't tell you why. If you like metal and can't stand norsecore bullshit then I highly recommend that you purchase this great album. I only have the promo version but the actual release is supposed to come with a 20 page booklet and the vinyl version should be on it's way as well. Check out the Holycaust site for more detail purchasing info. www.holycaust.com

© 2001 e. nebuchadnezzer