ALBUM REVIEW: Daze Of The Week – Acid Reign
Even by the standards of British thrash, Harrogate’s ACID REIGN aren’t the most prolific act. Since their reemergence in 2015, they’ve only released one full length. Sure, The Age Of Entitlement was met with critical acclaim from fans and critics, but that was seven years ago, and it was only their third album overall. It’s been a very long wait, but they’ve finally unleashed the follow-up. And we’ve got good news, and bad news.
The downside is that Daze Of The Week isn’t as good as its predecessor. The songs aren’t as memorable, and it doesn’t have the same instant-gem vibe. They set the bar high with The Age Of Entitlement, and don’t manage to reach it.
But on the other hand, Daze Of The Week is still a reliably entertaining thrash metal album. It’s not as handsome or athletically gifted as its older sibling, and its end of term report card isn’t going to take pride of place on the fridge door, but taken on its own terms, it’s pretty good.
ACID REIGN have long had a reputation for being light-hearted goofballs, but there’s a darker edge to them this time around. Singer (and sole-remaining original member) Howard ‘H’ Smith has an enviable level of energy, but he also comes across as angrier on this record. The opening duo of The Who Of You and the title track are fast and chaotic, and while they’re undeniably fun, there’s an ominous undercurrent to both.
This becomes more apparent on No Truth, a bruising number where H sounds like he’s had a few too many pints and is spoiling for a fight. There’s something nasty lurking in the background of Old Young Man as well, and Sorrowsworn may be the darkest track ACID REIGN have ever written. This is still party thrash, but it’s a party where some of the guests are behaving suspiciously and you’re wondering if you should get the hell out before a line is crossed.
That being said, for the most part, Daze Of The Week is a good time. KATATONIA this is not, it’s a lively and enjoyable record, and you can easily have fun with it. ACID REIGN aren’t doing anything here that will upset their fanbase, and it is a satisfying addition to their discography. Our only real issue is that it isn’t as good as the last one; the choruses aren’t as catchy, and the riffs don’t glue themselves to the memory as often. But if you enjoyed The Age Of Entitlement and want more of the same, but angrier, then good news.
Rating: 7/10
Daze Of The Week is out now via Back On Black.
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