Mandatory - Cataclysm

The newest EP from Mandatory may be a bit of a change for those who followed this Death/Thrash band from the beginning of their origins back in 2002. Despite being only 4 tracks, this showcases a huge leap forward for the group as they shift more into almost a Melodic Death/ Thrash outlet, incorporating plenty of Power Metal oriented solos, keyboard mixed riff heavy verses that would appeal to fans of Scary Symmetry, and even clean vocals that sound more like modern Metalcore. The harsh vocals fit the Thrash genre perfectly with that rough roar that isn't too flat or too monotone while still carrying a lot of life to it but being still able to discern over the music. The opening track "Condition Zero" is an excellent example of this that will attract listeners right from the start and also stands as the possible first single. "World Alight" will appeal to fans of the older style of just hard hitting Thrash/ Death Metal as it sheds away alot of melody for just brutal, straightforward chugging that is still very catchy to enjoy much in the vein of Groove Metal. "The Road" is one of the better tracks on the EP because it merges both sides together for a melodic, yet aggressive track that pretty much lets listeners know how much of a badass the next sophomore effort is going to evolve into once a few more tracks have been laid down. While being interesting, 'Cataclysm' only scratches the surface on showing fans just what Mandatory is capable of unleashing like they did on their debut album, and hopefully the next one will be much bigger.

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  1. Condition Zero
  2. World Alight
  3. The Road
  4. In Quiet Moments