The Generals are four cheeky Swedes who aren't exactly keen on the army (unlike Sabaton) but prove very keen on churning out death 'n' roll par excellence. While in most people's minds death 'n' roll equals Entombed, The Generals beg to differ. Though they acknowledge a debt to the subgenre's originators, the music on The Generals' 'Stand up Straight' debut is a far catchier affair blessed by hooks, thrash metal vigor, heaps of melody, and pure attitude.

The bombardment commences on the thrash-paced anthem 'Blessing in Disguise' where the gang introduce their particular talents to the mix. Singer-bassist Hednar's grizzly growl is quite standard, but what sets him a part is the musical backdrop provided by his mates. There're Rickard and Dick churning the incendiary riffs on the guitars while this mysterious dude called MetalMartin hammers the drums into submission. Much to the listener's satisfaction, The Generals are generally in fine form for most of the album given the twists and turns each of the 12 songs inside it take. Whereas opener 'Blessing in Disguise' is a sudden punch to the crotch, a lot more grit and desperation boils for the frantic pace of 'The Offer still Stands'.

Whatever drives these bastards to excel is a potent motivator judging by the fireworks that ensue past the initial music. 'Punchline' is a damn infectious anthem and the title track sees the band revisiting their thrash metal roots. A hefty dose of testicles weigh down the bruising 'One Eye Red'. It's the kind of song that knocks you to the floor and pees all over your face. Pretty intense, and so is the murderous camp of 'Trunkride' and the final salute 'Do It Like the Devil'. Perhaps the biggest selling point of this album is the level of the band's performance. The Generals are a serious bunch, they've got the chops and the hard earned talent to execute an impressive first album. It wouldn't be a stretch to foresee 'Stand up Straight' becoming the band's calling card for years to come. This album comes highly recommended for those unafraid to indulge their death n roll appetite.

Rating: 9 (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Miguel Miranda
06/07/2010 21:06