Reviews list for Warfare - Metal Anarchy (1985)

1985 was the year when a few notable speed metal albums were released, one of them being the second album by punky metal band Warfare, produced the late Lemmy of Motorhead. It sold poorly, and they couldn't do any big tours. They didn't want to spend all their money on a special opportunity to support Metallica at the Hammersmith Odeon. To protest their management with a big "f*** you", the band rode their truck to the parking lot outside the venue while Metallica was performing, and played their own show. They caused destruction to many different cars, including one owned by the Odeon manager. They were arrested after the chaos, but it was f***ing worth it for them.

SEE!?! That's the kind of crazy sh*t that has never happened in the nu metal scene! This band speaks out their attitude with actions rather than words. Of course, vandalism and public disturbance should never be condoned, but it really shows the band what a wild group they can be. And the music they made for Metal Anarchy expresses their attitude even further, more rebellious than even The Revolution clan.

The 40-second "Intro" is an odd one, though it sets the tone. The serene theme of The Sound of Music plays, but once you hear the happy singing of "The hills are alive with the sound of music", it abruptly gets cut off by an evil laugh among other noises. "Electric Mayhem" blasts off in speed and fury. "We will show no mercy, watch you f***ers plead, as we crank it higher, watch your ears bleed". The perfect opening track that's heavy as f***, parodying heavy metal more than Manowar could! The band's title track is longer and a bit slow. The transitions that occur in "Death Vigilence" can be a slight flaw, but the song still works well.

"Wrecked Society" is an over 6-minute epic that starts slow then speeds up. Another track "Living for the Last Days" sounds quite great, but could use some more potential. "Disgrace" has more of the speedy grace.

"Military Shadow" is more melodic while keeping the speed. The perfect anthem of punky metal has got to be the album's title track. It really does show the band raising their fists in anarchy, along with the music video of being metaphorically caged in. "Psycho Express" is one more psychotic track to end the album, though the very end is a bit weird. Not the best finale, but I'll take it anytime.

Metallica is known as one of the heaviest and loudest bands on Earth, though Warfare wanted to rival them...with attitude! Feel the restless madness throughout this album. You might very well enjoy it. However, it might not be for everyone, nor a perfect 5-star masterpiece. Still, I had no idea before now punky speed metal could be so thrilling!

Favorites: "Electric Mayhem", "Warfare", "Wrecked Society", "Disgrace", "Metal Anarchy"