The opener 'Weltschmerz' is very slow -- a slow segue into an absolute grindcore frenzy! These grind legends refuse to compromise their style and "slow down". Mitch Harris aiding in the backup vocal onslaught with high pitched screaming then "Barney" Greenway bellowing most of the way with guest backup by Anneke van Giersbergen (vocalist from The Gathering).

In my opinion, no release will ever dominate over 'Harmony Corruption' -- the band's 1990 release featuring the legendary drummer in my mind Mick Harris. Danny Herrera has definitely improved since 'Utopia Banished' (1992) but I think no grind drummer can replace Mick Harris. Definitely pick up 'Live Corruption' (1990) on VHS that home video featuring Mick Harris (drums), Jesse Pintado [RIP] (guitars), Mitch Harris (guitars) and Shane Embury (bass), Mark "Barney" Greenway (vocals).

'Smear Campaign' really was a "team" effort of pure Grindcore everyone here simply dominated! There is variety on this album though it isn't completely blast beating like 'From Enslavement to Obliteration' (1988). It is really catchy riff-wise and I loved the variations in the vocal department. Mitch Harris and Shane Embury making great contributions in the songwriting (music) and Barney wrote some song lyrics as well.

The outro to this release was taken from Death's 'Symbolic'" song... If you want to know some awesome tracks to listen to first before you purchase this then check out 'Puritanical Punishment Beating', 'Freedom Is the Wage of Sin", 'Sink Fast, Let Go', 'Identity Crisis' and 'Warped beyond Logic'. They give you an idea of what to expect on this release! Own it now!!!

Rating: 7½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Death8699
05/12/2007 13:48