The band was formed as a side project during Anthrax's recording in 1985, Ian wrote some crazy songs, enlisted the lineup mentioned above, and the forefathers of the thrash metal/hardcore blends was born. They were/are a band filled with sarcastic humor, pointed lyrics (if you can make them out), and above all insane energy levels, all of which were put on display during this live set from a club called Fenix in Seattle, WA, recorded back in 1999.
The Stormtroopers of Death kicked off the set with "The Ballad of Nirvana" which led into "March of the S.O.D." It was quite a way to start a show in Seattle — begin a Nirvana cut and ending it abruptly with "He's dead!" A good example of what S.O.D. says they are about. They rip through some old school songs highlighted with the purposeful pit chugger "Milano's Mosh" not to mention a band staple "Speak English or Die" which includes a Slayer interlude. Everything is delivered in an inimitable style that was so influential so many years ago.
The middle portion of the set is made up of S.O.D.'s tributes to dead music stars, in true tongue in cheek fashion. These include Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, INXS, Frank Sinatra, Nirvana (again), and Freddy Mercury. Great stuff, this is not a band to hold anything back as their creation is something of a rebellion against that which became the mainstream.
The final portion takes us through the likes of "Cromatic Death," "Fist Banging Mania," and "Milk." The latter includes the needed band introductions. They wrap everything up with "Freddy Krueger" and "United Forces."
This must have been a draining show. The pace pretty much never lets up. The performances are good, Charlie Benante is an amazing drummer, and Scott Ian has some of the best rhythms in the business. Milano's voice did not do much for me, but his "F You!" attitude makes up for it. I need to track down the original album now.
Bottomline. I know, it took way too long to become acquainted with the 'troopers,' but I am here now. This disk is quite good. It is no technical masterpiece, nor is it filled with deep and insightful lyrics, but it has such energy and wild humor you cannot help but enjoy it.
Recommended.
Article comments
1 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
Nice Review...
"a former Anthrax/Nuclear Assault member in Dan Lilker"
No Offense Chris, but, Dan Lilker was more than a former member. He came up with the name Anthrax and wrote most of "Fistful of Metal". He also wrote the best tunes on "Speak English..." for S.O.D.
Anyways, Nice Review...You must pick up "Speak English..." because it kicks some serious ass!!Billy Milano could f*cking scream back then. S.O.D. is to thrash as the Sex Pistols are to punk!!
2 - donnie
anyone know where to download this album? i simply cant wait 7 days for it to come out!