A powerful reissue of Venom’s overlooked “Demolition Man” era gem, complete with a 12-page booklet and a custom OBI strip featuring a striking die-cut logo.
Often overlooked in the Venom catalog, The Waste Lands stands as a fascinating chapter in the band’s history, marking the third and final appearance of Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan. While Cronos will always be remembered as the iconic voice of the band, Dolan brought his own character and force, and here he delivers one of his strongest vocal performances, backed by a sound that blends darkness, atmosphere, and sharp metallic aggression.
The album opens with “Cursed,” a slow and menacing piece that immediately sets a haunting tone with keyboards and heavy doom-laden riffs. Instead of rehashing old formulas, Venom embraced experimentation, weaving in layers of eerie atmosphere before shifting gears into the energetic speed of “I’m Paralysed.” This balance of gloom and urgency runs throughout the record, keeping the listener on edge. Tracks such as “Black Legions” and “Riddle of Steel” burst with classic metallic spirit, while “Need to Kill” injects an industrial edge that was both daring and surprisingly effective. The band even closes with “Clarisse,” a darkly dramatic ballad inspired by The Silence of the Lambs, showing just how far they were willing to push their creativity at this stage.
What makes The Waste Lands so rewarding is its diversity. The thrash power of “Wolverine” and “Kissing the Beast” sits comfortably alongside slower, more atmospheric compositions, proving that Venom were not content to simply follow trends or repeat their past. Mantas and Steve White handle the guitar work with confidence, offering memorable riffs and solos, while Abaddon delivers some of his most commanding drumming. The added keyboards bring an unexpected depth without diluting the heaviness, instead highlighting the album’s dark and mysterious aura.
Though it never achieved the recognition of Prime Evil or the classic early records, this album is a hidden treasure that deserves far more attention. It shows a band unafraid to experiment while still retaining their raw edge, and Dolan’s presence gives the songs grit and intensity. The Waste Lands is not just a forgotten relic, but a bold statement from a legendary band exploring new territory at the dawn of the 90s.
For listeners willing to venture beyond the usual Venom staples, this record offers a rewarding and surprisingly fresh experience.
