From a small town of Klecko, Poland, rises a powerful new force of metal, Doctrine X. This six-piece band alloy together two worlds: Thrash metal of the yore and contemporary feel. The band started only in 2008 and the full length album 'Mind Control', although self-released, is the band's debut release. This release contains 8 songs and instrumental intro and outro.

Doctrine X's music follows several doctrines. Thrash metal side of the music sounds like what comes from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a mixture of dynamic, nimble-fingered Annihilator style and newer Testament sound, and Nevermore echoes here and there. There's definite melodic Gothenburg death metal proportion in the music, sometimes sounding pretty Arch Enemy-ish, and not only because of female vocals (more about them later), and during more melodic moments reminding of Evergrey. The band sound both defiant and epic. There are bits of metalcore stylings around, but are nevertheless a minor part in it all, so don't let them scare you off. The band have managed to spread and jumble up the influences and build a characteristic enough style out of them.

The production is classy; while it is modern with awesome balancing of elements and packed with punch, it is not too digital. The instrumentalists' performances are simply flawless. The joy of playing can be heard, but it is still absolutely tight and technically competent. There are both male and female vocals. The male ones are low grunting, which is okay and vicious enough, but a tad one-sided. Vader's style definitely comes to mind when hearing them. Some rare clean, simply sung male vocals are heard for a bit of variety's sake. The female voice, by Vera of Sceptic and Totem fame, is close to Arch Enemy's Angela Gossow. The lyrics battle against present day society and aren't nothing too special.

I like the way how Doctrine X have created true metal, where the word "modern" can be incorporated without any unpleasant thoughts. I predict, that some label will soon sign the band and 'Mind Control' will be reissued for wider distribution. But I wouldn't wait for that to happen, because the album is sold by the band. If you like thrashy heavy metal with modern edge, you now know what to do...

Rating: 7½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
01/24/2010 21:00