Hammers of Misfortune founder, guitarist and songwriter John Cobbett coined “psychedlic thrash” as the term for the band’s recent Overtaker album. He’s spot-on. The album, in typical Hammers fashion, is a whirling dervish of angular riffs, feverish melodies and rampant thrash beats. It was one of 2022’s most unique outings, which is why it’s our December 2022 Album of the Month. Here’s what Matt Coe had to say in his review:
Eclectic in approach and outlook, Hammers of Misfortune have established a precedence through their long-running history in pulling influences from decades of rock and metal to develop a unique take on progressive, heavy music. Their latest album, Overtaker, comes after 2016’s Dead Revolution, another head-turning appealer chock full of twists and turns on all fronts vocally and musically. And those who love a whirlwind of riffs, a multi-pronged vocal attack, speedier/energetic tempos that rival the best in punk or thrash, as well as the ’70s organ angles pushed in angular form will find plenty to devour in this outer galaxy atmosphere pushed in these ten tracks.
Acts like Hammers of Misfortune aren’t cut from the same cloth as your normal progressive bands – these ladies and gentlemen really have honed their craft in terms of instrumental abilities plus songwriting acumen. As such, Overtaker is another prime example that this genre can continue to remain relevant and vital fifty plus years after its inception, thanks to aggressively pushing parameters for what can be done through this record.
Check out Matt’s full review here!