I may have mentioned before in some past reviews that I am on a Thrash metal kick as of late. I’m not sure if it’s my temperament, given the current state of affairs I am experiencing. I reside in the UdumbasS of A, and we are falling towards ‘Idiocracy ’. The riffing, the speed, and the aggression all help alleviate my mood. Plus, if the band sings in a more political stance, well that’s just an added benefit, the way I see it.
I’ve been aware of and listening to Ural since 2019’s ‘Just For Fun,’ and I always enjoyed their slight crossover stance with a bit of humour injected into their own sci-fi lyrical approach. Now, having said that, I can say to you now in here 2026 with this latest ‘Anthropic Genetic Involution’ release, not much has changed. So let’s go over the positives, shall we?
The band still maintains that blend of semi-crossover stylings similar to Insanity Alert, with plenty of gang-like shouts in some of the chorus, or has added background yells to emphasize certain moments. There are also touches of bands like Condition Critical, Tempered, and also Hidden Intent. I make mention of Hidden Intent because that band is very high on my list for aggressive thrash groove and with a very prominent bass sound. You hear that, people?! A bass sound that can be heard and adds so much more to the Thrashy-moshpit goodness. So, I say forget the cowbell; we need more bass. Now it’s not quite at the levels of Overkill and their ‘W.F.O.’ album, which I love, but you may have guessed that by now. I really like how the bass is kept in the mix, giving you something to grab onto it and just hear what it adds to the songs themselves. Also in the Thrash metal rule book, Chapter One, Rule #1 of must haves is you gotta bring on the riffs. You will be pleased for the most part; Ural brings that to the table, and with a excellent production to boot. So I tell you, for those that bow to the temple of the riff, they will be granted blessings aplenty. Ural has always been a very riff-centric band. Even from the band’s early days.
Now for some of the downers. Like mentioned, not much has changed in the overall approach of the band in their songwriting. Kudos for knowing what they want and sticking with it. Having said that tho, will this be a must-have for those that have some of their early material? This may be mainly for the die-hards and new fans only. Also, some may find vocalist Andrea Calviello slightly grating in his delivery. He comes across like a higher-pitched Zetro with some Dave Mustaine inflections at times. Lastly, ‘Flat Black’. Apparently it is a cover, and it is a kinda weird jazzy off-kilter rap song of sorts. To me, it just sort of feels out of place with the album as a whole and kinda kills the mood with its blaring tuba, horns thing going on.
Overall, a good album for those that truly need their Thrash fix, but it may be more of a cautionary buy for others. Take a listen for yourselves and see what you think.
