Blurred Vision, Sanity Obscure

Believer's 2nd outing "Sanity Obscured" is another thrash classic. Where "Extraction ... " was more raw and straight-forward, "Sanity Obscured" is more technical which lends itself to feeling of disjointedness.

The progressive choppiness does not hinder the album, but allows the band to explore more complex riffage while retaining the speed and chugging of their debut. The growth is complimented with suberb production and more distinguishable vocals from frontman Kurt Bachman.

Starting the album of is the title track and probably my favourite song on this album. After an eerie keyboard/sound effects intro with hints of familiar child-like melodies "Sanity Obscured" blasts into a ferocious staight up thrash assault. The rest of the album follow suit with more technical prowess.

The other 2 stand out tracks are the heavy metal/punky attitude cover of U2's "Like A Song" which is catchy faithfully done (I should mention that I haven't heard the original, but the song is straight forward without any thrashy flourishes and a strong U2 vibe). "Dies Irae (Day Of Wrath) is a haunting orchestral piece interspersed with Believer brand heaviness. The song is bleak and sinister sounding and hints at what is to come on "Dimensions" their 3rd album.

Overall, I find "Sanity Obscured" a worthy follow-up, showing growth and talent. Joey Daub is also a killer drummer too.

Feel free to check out my review of "Dimensions" previously posted a while ago.

Up next. After a 15 year hiatus, Believer are back with an unprecidented thrash masterpiece "Gabriel"