Suicidal Tendencies

World Gone Mad

Suicidal Tendencies have seen it all. They were skate punks before the term existed. They were hardcore and naturally mutated into a thrash act; blurring the lines where punk and metal meet. These days, they are all this and more.

They kick this disc off with “Clap Like Ozzy,” a warily optimistic blast of speed and attitude. “Death is knocking, don't answer the door/There's never a good time, we need so much more/Can't pick the moment, no time will ever be right/But while we're breathing, we'll give it a hell of a fight.” This is one of those songs where everyone gets a chance to shine.

Legendary drummer Dave Lombardo, now a full time member, unleashes his considerable chops every chance he gets. “The New Degeneration” displays some inspired interplay between the frantic lead guitars and Lombardo's punishing attack. Title track “World Gone Mad,” is a controlled deeper groove, downshifting to allow for some breathing room after the blasts of speed that start this party. “One Finger Salute” is as subtle as you'd expect it to be. It's a solid reminder that sometimes all you have is anger, so don't hold back.

“This World” closes out the collection. A more subdued and reflective number is musically out of step with the rest of the disc, but works just fine. This is a great place to build anticipation for when it starts all over again.

Mike Muir and company have gone the distance and prove they are still psychos after all these years.

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