World Asylum

It all started with an EP that was turned into a full record in 1984 on Tropical Records. These two releases really impressed me and then the band went on to get signed to release yet another self titled record simply LEATHERWOLF scoring the hit “The Calling”. This record was bit more polished and they went on to release Street Ready and basically fell into obscurity and dollar bins in Jersey. They were keeping it alive for many years with no releases when they reunited and released a cool ass live record. Things were looking up and then many members had to jump ship leaving Dean the kick ass drummer a third of the triple guitar threat left. They then go on to recruit Wade Black who has worked in bands like Crimson Glory and Seven Witches. As you find out with this record he is a perfect fit. The record starts pounding hard and heavy and I take a second look at the cover to see if I mistook it for another band. Nope it is the same band but serving it darker and heavier. This record has taken control of my CD players. This is one of those real metal records. The record starts very heavy and I would say more Metal Church like. It is very up-tempo and rough. The guitar squealing siren effects rule. The old howling guitars are back. A thrashed out ending slams this track down. Next up is a more surreal track in “King Of The Ward”. I must say Wade changes styles and he sounds like James from Dream Theater. Another kick ass song that is more mid-paced with a cool groove and presentation. I could swear those guitars are talking. It also has a great catchy chorus. “Behind the Gun” has a colossal intro and then I swear riffs that and Mercyful Fate and Loudness fan would bow to. “Live Or Die” is even more creepy going more in a thrashed up King Diamond meets Helloween area, fucking awesome screaming guitars. Even fans of Queensryche and Judas Priest would bow down to this great comeback. “Disconnect” deceives you in the beginning and it turns into an exercise in bouncy pounding. That is another track with a great catchy chorus. Greater shredding is here. For a minute as “Dr. Wicked (R.X. O.D.)” starts I’m thinking of wild Voi Vod like sounds. This track cranks up and goes into that more Euro thrash. Remember it thrashes and power metals you to death and the vocals are super accessible while not losing a metal edge. “Institution’ goes down more of a darker round. They manipulated the vocals on this one. It was definitely adventurous and different sounding song for these guys. “Derailed” brings band the intense pounding again and Wade goes more into a more Dio like approach to the vocals. “The Grave” takes another dark turn in the dreary guitar sounds and more down lyrics. “Never Again” keeps it on a darker tip and slowly takes this great record to an end. This definitely will make my top 10 of the year.

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