Rise of the Infidels
Rise of the Infidels, is the newest and final release by SOD, containing four studio tracks, and twenty live tracks from a live 1999 show at Seattle, WA. The later is the true enticement to purchase this CD. SOD, according to themselves, have always been about the live show and the fans at those shows. Almost always tongue-in-cheek, but always representing the true spirit of metal, Rise of the Infidels packs a lot of punch in it’s entertainment value.
"Stand up and Fight", the first track hits the ground running and blasts the listener with the exceptional talents of Scott Ian on guitar and Charlie Benante on drums. My favorite of the studio tracks, however, is "Java Amigo." Clocking in at just a minute and sixteen seconds, Billy Milano using his speed-singing super power, to convincingly state his desire for coffee. Rounding up the last of the studio tracks are two cover songs, "United and Strong," and "Ready to Fight." There is really nothing new or exciting about "United and Strong," originally by Agnostic Front. It unfortunately blends too well, and does not have that individuality that separates it from many other heavy metal songs. "Ready to Fight," a Negative Approach cover, works very nice.
The real treat lies within the tracks recorded live in concert. ’Live at the Fenix’ in Seattle, SOD decides to start this 1999 show off with a real bit of sarcasm, performing, The Ballad of Nirvana…“You’re Dead!!“. Other ballads featuring the works of dead rock heroes include, Ballad of Jimi Hendrix, Ballad of Jim Morrison, Ballad of Freddy Mercury, and Ballad of INXS. It was the Ballad of INXS, that gave me the biggest laugh though, with the line, “It‘s always a good idea when your jerking off, not to hang yourself.”.
And yes, the live tracks include fan favorites: S"peak English or Die," "Sgt D and the S.O.D.", "Milk, and Pussywhipped."
