Lääz Rockit: Know Your Enemy

Laaz Rockit's third release "Know Your Enemy" is an energetic fuel thrash album from the era that saw so many bands come and go. "Know Your Enemy" is filled to the brim with speedy riffs that are catchy and memorable, something that many thrash bands of that time failed to accomplish. As usual, Michael Coons' vocals are one of the highlights on this album as his sound fits perfectly with the atmosphere the band creates and play so well with the genre altogether. As with "Annihilation Principle", the main feature here is both the vocals as well as the guitar riffs, which taken center stage. As a tradeoff, the solos once again play an important role, but they are not as crucial to the overall sound as the riffs are. Drums seem to be just along for the ride on most of Laaz Rockit's release, nothing terrible, but nothing fantastic either. This album along with "Annihilation Principle" were my first experiences with the band, one that I remember vividly and as such, would recommend to any metalhead.

Highlights: "Euroshima" "Last Breath" "Say Goodbye M.F."

Rating: 3.5

Lääz Rockit: Annihilation Principle

When I was a kid, my stepfather had this cassette sitting out and I remember even at seven years old staring at the artwork and thinking; this is awesome. Of course, it would be years before I actually listened to "Annihilation Principle", but when I finally did, I remember it being just as awesome as I thought it would be all those years ago. The first thing I was drawn to was Michael Coons' vocals. They are as unique as they are fun the listen to, sort of like Brock Lindow of 36 Crazyfists (no I'm not comparing the vocalist, the band nor the genre, just they they each have unique characteristics). The guitars are the driving force behind the music hear. Compelling riffs that engage the listener right from the get go and solos (albeit nothing earth shattering) allow for nice transitions within the songs. Among Laaz Rockit's discography, I would say this is my favorite and probably the easiest one to listen to for those may be trying to expand their thrash databases. Definitely recommended.

Highlights: "Fire in the Hole" "Chasin' Charlie" "Holiday in Cambodia (Dead Kennedys cover)" "Mob Justice"

Rating: 4