Sodom - One Night in Bangkok

Along with Destruction and Kreator, Sodom was one of the "big three" of German thrash metal in the 80s. Although I don't think they'll ever top Agent Orange or Persecution Mania, the band still released a wealth of strong material throughout the 90s. It's even more impressive when you look at the horrible albums Kreator and Destruction were releasing at the same time. Kreator and Destruction have returned to form in the past few years, but I still think Sodom's recent material is the best of the bunch.

Although the band is considerably more proficient with their instruments than in the old days (their debut EP In the Sign of Evil makes Venom look like Ygnwie Malmsteem), the music hasn't changed all that much. They've thrown in some death metal and punk influences on various albums, but they're still pretty much playing the same thrash metal they always have. Like Iron Maiden, Sodom has definitely evolved over the years, but they really haven't deviated much from their basic sound.

Founder and vocalist Tom Angelripper is the only original member of the band left, but he's always managed to surround himself with a good backing band. The group is in fine form on One Night in Bangkok, the band's 20th anniversary live album. The album contains a variety of tracks from the band's entire career, as well as a few surprises. As far as live albums go, One Night in Bangkok is a great bargain.

The band plays tracks from pretty much album they've ever done. Their old stand-bys ("Outbreak of Evil", "Agent Orange", "Sodomy and Lust") are aired, as well as some songs from their recent albums Code Red and M-16. I was kind of hoping they would play more older tune, but the band does have two other live albums, so I guess I can understand the emphasis on newer material. And the band does throw in some curveballs. The band plays the downright ancient song "Witching Metal" from their 1983 demo, as well as a brand new song entitled "The Enemy Within". And they throw in a cover of Motorhead's "Ace of Spades" to boot. I've heard better live performances from Sodom, but One Night in Bangkok shows there's still a lot of life left in the band. If you're a fan of the band or if you're just looking for a good introduction to the band, then this is an album that belongs in your collection.