PARADOX – Tales Of The Weird

AFM Records – Out Now

Paradox are one of the most impressive Thrash Metal bands of the 80s which never managed to acquire a name and status worthy of their skill and musical abilities. The story of this Würzburg quartet is one plagued by lack of label support, various line up changes and health issues, all conspiring against the development of an illustrious career.

Through sheer belief and determination frontman and guitar wizard Charly Steinhauer managed to keep his ship afloat and with the support of AFM instigated a new phase in the band’s career. Three years after the release of the truly impressive “Riot Squad”, Paradox are ready to unleash another killer effort, entitled “Tales Of The Weird”.

Paradox are pretty similar to bands like Annihilator concerning the use of melody in the music and so clever licks and catchy interludes are once again prominent in the ten new compositions on offer. A simple comparison with its predecessor, however, will undoubtedly reveal “Tales Of The Weird” to be heavier, presenting the listener with some of the most skull-crushing riffs that this band has created since the days of the classic “Heresy” (1989) – an album which, at the time, attracted not only commercial exposure but also induced some journalists to draw comparisons with bands of the likes of Metallica!

Opening an album with a nine minute track is a huge gamble but “Tales Of The Weird” is such a varied and cleverly arranged piece that it easily justifies the band’s faith in it. Filled with killer staccato riffs and incorporating the catchiest refrain of the album this is both a classic song as well as a clear statement of intent on the part of the band!

Charly Steinhauer’s riffs are so immense and commanding that make songs like “Day Of Judgement” and “Fragile Alliance” ideal for fans of bands like Flotsam And Jetsam while those who think that Thrash began and ended with Exodus’ “Bonded By Blood” should definitely check out “Escalation”. Paradox are a classic band with a modern feel so the use of Iced Earth influenced riffs in “Slashdead” should not come as a surprise to anyone.

Choosing a favourite track from this album is a really difficult process, however, I do feel that, together with the same-titled composition, “Brainwashed” is the song that stands out for me; its length gives these highly skilled musicians the opportunity to show some of their most inspiring performances to date.

I have said it before and I will say it again: it is truly inexplicable how, instead of being one of the most revered Thrash Metal bands in the world, Paradox have to satisfy themselves with solely being portrayed as an 80s cult outfit and an acquired taste.

It certainly seems that in this dirty and ruthless environment that is the music industry, music quality is one of the least important factors for commercial success, but I am sure that this is something Charlie and his band mates had to make peace with a long time ago. For us Thrashers, Paradox will always hold a special place in our hearts and with releases as impressive as “Tales Of The Weird” that place is further solidified! One of the best Thrash albums of 2012!

John Stefanis

Rating: ****1/2 (4.5/5.0)

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