Crusaders – V (2024)
Crusaders have all the rage of a roaring inferno, like a phoenix rising from the ashes of various Glasgow bands. With lively ferocity, they hark back to a simpler time when riffs were fast, vocals were fierce and songs were angry. This Glaswegian four-piece is keeping the spirit of thrash metal alive, taking all the groundwork laid by a generation of talent and building on it with a solid sound. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Crusaders’.
New single ‘V’ is fast, raw and unapologetically metal, from the opening riff it feels like the song is over in a heartbeat and you’re left wanting more. The inspiration from the “Big Four” of thrash is evident, from the speedball riffs made famous by Slayer to the raspy chanting which only brings the mighty James Hetfield to mind. Holding the track together is an unshakeable drum roll, which is simple yet effective and allows the tremendous guitar to take centre stage. Lyrically, it is simple, to the point and commanding – which is all it needs to be. The last thing you need in such a raw track is over-complicated storytelling.
I loved the quote from the band: “The song stands as an example of the corruption of the current state, as well as how things may turn out to be. A thrash metal cry for injustice against how we live, and more dangerously, what may come”. For me, this embodies the whole ethos of thrash metal. The only disappointing thing is that ‘V’ is their only track available to stream on Spotify; hopefully more will be on its way.
Until then I’ll leave you with the words of the great Alan Moore! From his classic graphic novel V For Vendetta, he perfectly sums up this track: “Love your rage, not your cage.”
In addition to the single, Crusaders released an official music video for ‘V’. You can view the video below and/or on the band’s YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses effects that can trigger migraines and/or seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about Crusaders on their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
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