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SADISTIC FORCE
Morbid Odyssey EP

Self-released (2025)
Rating: 8/10

It’s a shame the cover art is so goofy because this is a fantastic new release from Austin, Texas-based thrashers Sadistic Force. This is the third EP from the trio who also have two full-length albums under their leather belts along.

Morbid Odyssey begins with ‘Portrait Of Torment’, a seriously gnarly slab of thrashing death that’s both catchy and vicious. The vocals of guitarist James Oliver shift from snarl to guttural, a perfect blend to front such a hostile entity.

Sadistic Force is such a wholesome act to be around simply because their style of thrash is so absorbing. The riffs cut deep due to their blackened nature, but they also remain crisp and decipherable amidst the barrages of JP Campo’s percussive lashes.

‘Soft Flesh For The Dungeon Of The Damned’ is deliciously melodic yet scathing with its simple yet engaging riffs. It’s classic thrash that can steadily build or provide immediate zip, as evidenced with ‘Strike After Strike’. It’s the fastest track on the EP but at its rear end manages to transform into a traditional metal heap of glinting steel, more so due to the dazzling solo from guest axe man Matteo Von Bewitcher.

The title track drives with a more blackened spirit, but the axe work still scurries in devilish fashion to the grimy coating of the vocals. Meanwhile, closer ‘Abnormal Cruelties’ is a classic dose of black thrash, varying tempos laced with the streak of a solo, a rusty gallop and scorching drums.

There might only be 24 minutes of music here but the grip of Sadistic Force is terrifyingly tight.

Neil Arnold

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