HEAVY MUSIC HISTORY: Set The World On Fire – Annihilator
Let’s take a journey back to 1993, Canadian thrash metal veterans ANNIHILATOR had released one of the most critically acclaimed double headers in metal history with debut Alice In Hell (1989) and Never, Neverland (1990). A combo which led to them supporting the mighty JUDAS PRIEST. How on earth were they going to follow that we hear you ask? Enter Set The World On Fire. By this time ANNIHILATOR were already on their fifth vocalist (lineup changes have been far from uncommon in their storied history), Aaron Randall. Despite his lack of experience, he proved to be a vital piece in the jigsaw for how this album turned out. His style was arguably less gritty than his predecessors but his powerful vocal range made him a force to be reckoned with as he brought an anthemic quality to the table.
Set The World On Fire entered a realm that was less full-throttle thrash metal and more catchy hooks and invigorating melodies. What was deemed to be a radio friendly approach was still packed with Jeff Waters’ signature guitar prowess and plentiful grooves courtesy of drumming virtuoso Mike Mangini. The unpredictable frenzy that is Brain Dance is almost the polar opposite to the power ballad influenced Phoenix Rising but somehow it just worked and provided a breadth of creativity that, for the most part, is still admired all these years later. Whereas the title track continuing to be a fan favourite and widely chosen live inclusion.
The record did, however, prove to be a bit of a sore point amongst the metal faithful (read: gatekeepers or purists) who weren’t too impressed that ANNIHILATOR had abandoned their thrash metal roots. Some people being dramatic enough as to accuse them of committing career suicide. Bet they didn’t anticipate them amassing 17 albums with some of their best yet to surface. But more of that in future Heavy Music History pieces.
Despite ANNIHILATOR being at the peak of their powers and Set The World On Fire shifting decent numbers, they had become victim to the huge surge in popularity of the Seattle grunge scene and were dropped from Roadrunner Records. Thankfully they were thrown a lifeline in the shape of Music For Nations amongst other worldwide labels which saw them make a triumphant return in releasing the infamous King Of The Kill (1994).
Throughout their tenure, founding member and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Waters refused to conform to any particular blueprint. Whilst arguably making some missteps along the way, he stayed true to his vision and has left an undeniable imprint on the world of metal with his seemingly endless contributions. He also laid down some insane lead runs as part of the Roadrunner United collaboration to further etch his name into the history books. It is uncertain how many releases ANNIHILATOR have remaining in their tank after an illustrious career stretching nearly 40 years but their legacy leaves a whole host of entries to sink your teeth into.
Set The World On Fire was originally released on May 4 1993 via Roadrunner Records.
Like ANNIHILATOR on Facebook.