Aftermath - Don't Cheer Me Up (Moshroom) 1988

1. "Lines Of Horror" (6:03)
2. "Black And Yellow" (3:31)
3. "Demonspeake" (10:30)
4. "Straight From Hell" (3:53)
5. "Beast Of Wrath" (6:09)
6. "Luci's Dance" (5:18)
7. "Aftermath" (6:09)

Wow! Now this is some obscure, underground metal. Aftermath are a speed metal/thrash band that hail from Arizona, USA similar in style to bands like Toxik, Realm or Agent Steel. After releasing a self released EP titled, "Straight from Hell" the band signed up with Dutch label Moshroom Records for this full length album. It's a shame that these guys weren't given a bit more promotion because I can only imagine that they would have done great in the metal underground. The music is dark and haunting at times, but for the most part is fast, full throttle 1980's, American speed metal. Songs like "Line of Horror", "Black and Yellow" and "Straight from Hell" are just straight forward speed and aggression. However, there are some more melodic parts such as the opening moments of "Aftermath" and parts of the epic length "Daemynspeke". Vocalist Richard Shaka uses a high, clean style for the most part, but is also very aggressive, shrieking out some crazy screams where needed. Unfortunately no lyrics were included, but from what I can tell, the lyrics are pretty typical for what was going on in the thrash scene at the time. Had not heard of this band until the CD showed up in my mailbox. I am certainly glad it did. (Thanks Olaf!)