ABIGAIL / BARBATOS - Sexual Metal Holocaust (CD)

In a declaration of violence, kill, and destruction to the world, Werewolf Records proudly presents the debut of the split album between Abigail and Barbatos on high-fidelity compact disc. A mandatory addition for all enthusiasts of far-east Black Metal madness, this release showcases the thrashing prowess of both Japanese bands with a touch of Black Metal influence.

The Abigail side features a dynamic live set, showcasing the band's best songs and the unparalleled vocals of Yasuyuki, whose insane screeching remains unmatched and doubly impressive in a live setting. The track selection, though not including "Yakuza! Yakuza! Yakuza!", is a testament to Abigail's excellence. Following the live set, a seven-minute studio track, "Great Swordman," adds an epic and mid-paced departure from Abigail's usual style, filled with catchy riffing.

On the Barbatos side, demo versions of songs from "War! Speed and Power" dominate, accompanied by a new studio track, "We're Crazy Fighters." While these may be familiar to those with Barbatos' CD, the raw demo atmosphere complements the songs well, offering a unique listening experience. Although not as impactful as the Abigail side, the live content alone makes this split a must-have for fans of both bands, serving as an excellent introduction for those new to their music. For enthusiasts of old-school Thrash or those interested in exploring the Japanese metal scene, this split LP is a compelling addition to their collection.