War Is My Shepard E.P.
[Nuclear Blast]

Exodus have returned, and they sound heavier than I can even remember. Exodus released this EP to tide fans over until their next full length release for February 2004, “Tempo of the Damned.” Replacing the late Paul Baloff is Steve “Zetro” Souza, and he sounds more pissed than I have ever heard. The best way to describe how these songs sound, is to imagine “Fabulous Disaster” or “Impact is Imminent” mixed with an extra set of cast iron balls. More gruff, more angry, even heavier, and Exodus still sound like Exodus.

The production, headed by Andy Sneap, is astounding. Exodus sounds exactly how they should be heard: loud, clear, and heavy. I really don’t want to go too in depth on the production, mainly because this is an EP.

Overall, the “War is My Shepard EP” makes me too excited for words. If the rest of their new album is going to sound half as good as this, then I don’t think that there will be anyone capable of stopping them for complete metal domination. Pay attention world, the kings of thrash have returned!