COMMANDER

Reviewed by JB

            In the eve of a possible Commander reunion, I decide to resurrect this album to reacquaint you with the devastating brood.  Commander was on the threshold of notoriety by dominating the local music scene; then after one statement containing the term irreconcilable differences, almost total eradication.   

Track Listings:

                                                                 1.  Mountain

                                                                 2.  Decree of Pain

                                                                 3.  Coils of Medusa

                                                                 4.  Blood Funnel

                                                                 5.  Fatal Blow

                                                                 6.  Royal Assassin

                                                                 7.  666 Steps

                                                                 8.  Demonic Tutor

                                                                 9.  Temporary Insanity

                                                               10.  Empty the Catacombs

                                                               11.  Altar of Bones

             Commander’s 2006 full-length self release, Altar of Bones, is straight up thrash metal in its purest form.  The CD is packed full of evil riffs, massive bass, and deadening beats.  The song titles are only a preview to the hardcore substance inside.  This album has a maturity like these guys have been jamming together all their lives, but the truth is Commander dominated the local scene quickly and strategically. 

            Beginning as a trio in 2004, the chemistry was automatic as they discovered their sound.  After taking a life examining break, Commander came back full force in 2005 ready for the next level of metal hierarchy.  They found their lead man and jumped into the local circuit.  April 2005, Commander joined forces with Negative Earth Studio to record their six track debut EP, Wall of Swords.  Next came the promoting and touring madness; and by the end of 2005, a creative break was needed to refuel the monstrous machine.  Born from that break is Altar of Bones.

            Commander revisited Negative Earth Studios to record their self produced album.  Nashville’s Jon Craig held the engineering duties, while Mike Orth was the mixing and master mind.  Adam Geyer contributed the album art.  The CD sleeve is complete with lyrics and numerous photos.  For your listening pleasure, there is even a break from the thundering melodies…track seven is a version of their own Blair Witch Project, Commander style.     

Band Members:

Chris Hightower – Vocals

Jon Bratcher – Guitar

Josh Hines – Bass

Jeremie Pryor – Drums

Commander came so far in such a short period of time; I understand how a powerhouse like that can self destruct.  Premature burnout is common in this business; and even though the vision may be concrete, the illusion of a tight front can actually be dysfunctional.  Whatever the reason behind the dismembering, I hate that it happened to these guys.  Commander’s talent is obvious and overwhelming on this release.  Altar of Bones is an album that should be sitting on every CD retail shelf world wide.  They make thrash metal proud while personalizing it with their breakdowns and killer riffs.  This CD is solid and never miscalculating.     

If the rumors are true and Commander is trying to make a comeback, get ready for total annihilation.  I’m sure through the break-up and down time, there are some heavy emotions waiting to be unleashed for creating new material.  Now that I have been introduced to the clan, I would love to see one of those insane live performances that are only memories now.  All I have left to say is…boys, get over it and rock on…the metal world needs you!

Horns Up,

JB@NashvilleRock.net

www.MySpace.com/JB35679