Philly metal-punks ZORN are back and sounding heavier than ever on their latest EP Endless Funeral, a smoldering caldron of hardcore punk, thrash, and black metal, all melding together to create a monstrous and ripping sound that has plenty of layers to dig into and just the right amount of camp to keep things interesting. I’ve never had the pleasure of seeing ZORN live, but from what I’ve heard they put on quite a performance, calling back to the shock rock of ALICE COOPER amongst others. This kind of energy can be tough to translate to a recording but based on the strength of Endless Funeral, it sounds like ZORN have knocked it out of the park.
Opening track “Warpath” wastes no time in setting the stage, with speed to spare and guitar riffs that sound like a swarm of angry wasps. The vocals are scathing and reach for the heavens, creating a cinematic and dare I say vampiric vibe, with a guitar solo that sounds straight out of Transyvania. Like I said, this record has just the right amount of camp!
Next up on “G.O.R.N” we get more vein-popping vocals, searing guitar solos, and an excellent breakdown that leads into a full speed race to the end of the track. On “Drunken Demon’s Iron Keep” the band blunt-force thrash with brilliant accompanying lyrics:
Over the Mountain to the Iron Keep/Across the Great Divide where the Demons Sleep/Asleep He’s bound with Seven Chains/Be sure to cut off His head or The Evil will remain”
Come on! This shit rules! Next is the title track which boasts an eerie classical guitar intro and more straight-forward thrash and features some demonic spoken-word moments towards the end, another nice touch that only adds to the occult atmosphere. Finally “Dance Of Madness” sees the band take a galloping MOTÖRHEAD inspired victory lap, wrapping things up by going full 80’s metal including righteous dueling guitar solos and what is safe to say the lead singer’s finest moment.
If charged up punk is your thing, pick this up. If speedy thrash metal is your thing, pick this up. Hell if you’re just looking for some good tunes similar to other hellish rockers like SAVAGE PLEASURE and TOTAL HELL, pick this up! Be sure to checkout ZORN live and grab a copy of Endless Funeral from Sorry State Records.
