I can't deny that thrash/speed metal is not normally my preferred brand of rock music, but I was frankly delighted by the professional quality of Summon in Thunder. The rhythm section of Derek Harn (bass) and Chad Davis (drums) is rock solid and heavy as hell! And fast! Guitars by Kirby Johnson and the welcome return of Sammi Curr are superb, with even a hint of early Iron Maiden in the duelling.

Sadly, the perpetual shout of John Pettibone switches me off instantly. No matter that their layered instruments add a lush depth to such savage sounds - if I can't understand the words then what's the point? I nearly gave up after the first three tracks, as to me they all sounded the same, mostly due to the vocal. I understand that evil vocal is necessary to the genre, but I actually believe that listeners deserve a little better than this. Imagine - maybe John can actually sing, but no-one knows!

I have to say that the song format and melodic tendencies shot up a notch for 'Given in to the Taking' and 'Skinwalkers', which I almost enjoyed, but then the remainder of the album returned to samey songs.

This is very sad, as they are obviously superb at what they do, and big tours in North America prove they are a force to be reckoned with. Nevertheless, I'm not sure they are deserving of the title bestowed upon them by Metal Hammer UK: 'American Metal's next truly great band'. I disagree.

Anyway, if you like speed and thrash, you will love this. Even if I think it all mostly sounds the same. Unlike many others, at least they are GOOD at what they do.