If you want to drive nails into wood, you use a hammer. There really is no better tool for this task. Its design is straightforward; the basic form has not changed in years (millennia, really), if you ignore the occasional tweaks and "refreshing" updates. The hammer is basic, functional and reliable; much like the band SODOM. If you want to Thrash with a vengeance, you listen to SODOM. The band consistently and reliably delivers raging Thrash Metal, their foundation of sound changing little with but a few variances to refine and perfect. This is all evident on their latest studio release, "In War And Pieces".

The album kicks off with straight-up Thrashing fury, courtesy of the title track and "Hellfire". These songs leave little doubt as to why SODOM have been dubbed one of the "Big Three" of German Thrash (KREATOR and DESTRUCTION being the other two). But the band stays relevant and fresh by incorporating Death Metal in the punishing "Through Toxic Veins" and "Feigned Death Throes", to the more Melodic Death of "God Bless You". There are even hints of their old Black Metal days with "The Art Of Killing Poetry". And just when you think you’ve heard it all, the closer "Styptic Parasite" hits you sideways from out of nowhere with its groove; unlike anything else on the album, it is memorable in its catchiness as well as its oddness.

"In War And Pieces" is yet another solid outing from the dependable SODOM. Tom Angelripper barks, growls and screams over the wall of sound so expertly crafted and executed by guitarist Bernemann and drummer Bobby Schottkowski. From raging riffs to screeching solos to melodic moments, SODOM delivers the goods. However, this album is elevated above the band's past releases by its production quality. Every guitar note is ear-piercingly clear; every bass drum kick felt square in the chest. Yes, these Teutonic Thrash titans still know how to do it, and do it well at that. "In War And Pieces" will bludgeon you into bloody and pulpy submission; just like a hammer.