Review by Death8699 on February 12, 2019.

A definite step up from their last two releases, but still average due to production quality, unoriginality, alongside vocals that are quite annoying yet again. The rhythmic structures are more creative than the previous 2 albums, however, the production is such to where it seems like they recorded this in a garage, a tad bit up from that. The aggression factor still remains which is good, though I would've liked to get a lyric sheet enclosed. That was absent so it is hard for me to be able to see if I would be able to at least have a modicum amount on what their concepts are lyrically, not just guessing what the vocals are spewed out, but it's lacking.

About the actual thrash based music, Warbringer sounds like Metallica's "Kill 'Em All" riff-wise and production-wise. The leads were above average, so that's good, though I'm not hearing a whole lot of superior creativity on this release. I think that if the production was tighter, it would've given the album much more justice than what was recorded yet again on this album. The guitars contained an incredible amount of distortion spewed forth in that respect, tempo changes, nothing hostile in terms of drastic changes, but there are points to where you'll hear some clean tone on the songs, not much though.

I think that they were a step up from their previous, though the sound quality just needed to be better. It might've been their aim to have another raw produced output, but I don't care for that. The music wasn't strikingly impressionable, better and more thought out from previous albums, still needs stronger more memorable riffs. Since there were no lyrics coming with the album, it was hard to combine it with the music so it all makes sense in an intelligible aspect. The fact that this was void annoyed me so it wasn't as enjoyable to listen to and be able to identify with. I did appreciate the fact that they're average musicians trying to better themselves.

What was irritating the most were the vocals. They were screaming based, but just got under my skin. I think that they need a replacement if they want listeners to be able to appreciate the music alongside the voice. If they ditch their vocalist and find someone that enhances the quality of what comes out of your speakers, it'd have more people able to enjoy what they've put out with their efforts. I'm not saying change their style of music, just get someone who's a better representation of their thrash metal riffs. All of the songs had their ups and downs in terms of keeping me listening to the album, but I think that they still need to be more creative.

This whole album I think was just generic, musicians pressing to move forward, but still lacking in a sense that they need modification to the songwriting. If a band is looking to stay in this thrash metal genre, be original, don't go after sounds that reflect a lot of influences and sound like them. Yes, all bands have their influences, I'm just saying that the music is just like that of old Metallica with that raw sound. It just is a repeat and continuation with that. This was average thrash metal with music that didn't stick to me at all. I thought a lot about them experimenting, though they still need more originality.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Review by Yener on May 25, 2019.

Benighted are one of those bands who I had heard of before, yet due to being obsessed with other bands and albums, never really gave them much of a chance. I remember hearing a song or two a few years ago and just shrugging it off, deciding that whatever I was listening to at the time was better or more suitable for my mood. Thus, Benighted got shelved.

Fast forward a few years and I am now obsessed with this band, kicking myself for not being more attentive earlier. Benighted is special because they don't really fall into any sub-genre. They have elements of death metal, hardcore, progressive and just about anything you can think of - even electronic - and they blend it all together expertly. The first time I sat down and listened to this album from start to finish I was blown away - and it's hard to blow away someone who's been listening to metal for 25 years. 

A few things I love about this band. First off, the vocals. Benighted aren't shy to use a wide variety of vocal styles in their onslaught. From the deep growls, screams and pig squeals, they pretty much have it all. And they are all done incredibly well and tastefully. Second, the drumming. Imagine my surprise when I learned that Kevin Paradis was the drummer on this album. A wonderful surprise, because I have been following him on YouTube for years.

Lastly, and this is very important - the riffs. A lot of bands these days forget that the most important part in metal is having great riffs that you can remember and bang your head to. Thunderous motherfuckers, riffs that can move mountains. And Benighted has that, which is one of the reasons I've been so drawn to them. 

Another aspect is the excellent arranging on this album. The drum parts are fantastic and arranged near perfectly. It's not all blast beats and double bass laid underneath everything, which is just a lazy way of writing drum parts. They are expertly crafted and arranged and compliment the riffs perfectly. 

I don't think I need to go over individual tracks, though I will say that "Experience Your Flesh" is probably my favorite offering on this album. The whole disc is just beast. 

Hard, brutal, fast, experimental, these guys really have it all. They are like the perfect metal band for me, and I will be watching them like a hawk from now on. Can't wait for the new one which should be coming out in a few weeks. This stuff is fantastic.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10