So far since I’ve done these reviews, I’ve reviewed Pantera, Down, and Scour. I feel like it’s time to continue the Phil Anselmo trend and probably finish it as well. Now think which of his projects have not been reviewed yet? Well for starters, this is a double band review so that means that the band(s) on the chopping block are Philip H. Anselmo and The Illegals are up first and then the second half will be Superjoint Ritual.
Philip H. Anselmo and the Illegals:
Walk Through Exits Only- I’ll admit I had only heard of Phil’s solo band and this album I think either through Facebook or Revolver I honestly can’t remember which but at the time I wasn’t interested in it. It’s too bad because this album is actually a really good album. Is it a game changer the way Pantera was? No it’s not. For those that like Pantera or are expecting another version of that band, look elsewhere because you won’t find any of that on here. I remember reading somewhere that Phil classifies this album as extreme metal and he is right. The songs themselves have very weird time changes on them but they are good songs. Definitely check this one out especially if you are a fan of Phil. I give this 10/10 yes it’s that good.
Standouts: Bedroom Destroyer, Bedridden, Battalion of Zero
Choosing Mental Illness As A Virtue- this one really isn’t a continuation of the last album. In fact if you thought that the previous effort was extreme, then you will definitely think that about this album. Now if you have ever listened to his other band Scour, then you will hear some of that on here. It has a very black metal feel to it. Overall, a very good album and very different from the first one. I give this one 9/10
Standouts: Little Fucking Heroes, Finger Me, Mixed Lunatic Results
This band is not another Down or Pantera so if you want that kind of music then I’d suggest listening to those albums. I’m excited for another album from this band because both records are different. I was fortunate enough to see them open for Slayer but for that show they played all Pantera songs and the way I see it that’s the closest we’ll get to a Pantera show. However, I’d like to see a show where they play songs off these two albums. Hopefully some day. Anyway onto part 2 which is Superjoint Ritual……
Use Once And Destroy- this band has been around longer than The Illegals and this album was my introduction to them. I remember seeing the video for Fuck a Your Enemy on Headbanger’s Ball back in the early 2000’s and thought it was a great song and the video is of them playing air instruments then switching to actual instruments. The rest of the album is definitely more in the style of groove metal and thrash metal with some black metals hints. It’s very raw sounding but I really like this one. This one came out shortly before Pantera split up and if you listen to Reinventing The Steel and this one, they are both very different records. Definitely check this one out if you haven’t. I give it 10/10
Standouts: It Takes No Guts, Fuck Your Enemy, Everyone Hates Everyone
A Lethal Dose Of American Hatred- gotta admit that the record name is badass. That being said, it continues where the last album left off. I remember I had downloaded a press conference from Ozzfest 2004 and Phil said that this was the heaviest band he’s been in which l thought was weird because while yes it’s a heavy record, it’s not heavier than Pantera. I don’t know, I had to listen to this one a few times before it really grabbed my attention. It’s not quite as strong as Use Once but it’s a good and heavy record nonetheless. A good follow up to their first record and would also be their last album for 13 years. I give it 9/10
Standouts: Sickness, Deaththreat, The Horror
Caught Up In The Gears Of Application- this is their first record after 13 years and the band now goes by Superjoint instead of Superjoint Ritual for some odd reason. This record definitely picks up right where they left off in 2003 and with bands who have taken long periods of time away, you’re not sure if they’ve still got it but here they still do. I also think this is the first Superjoint record where Phil wasn’t high on weed or drinking. His vocals on this however seem to be a little slower but it actually works out well. It’s not quite as strong as the other two records but this one is definitely worthy of being included with them. I will say though that Kevin Bond’s guitar playing doesn’t stand out here. Overall, a good record and I give it 8/10.
Standouts: Ruin You, Asshole, Burning The Blanket
This is one of those bands where I wish I could see again. I’m hoping that Superjoint plays shows again and that they can at least put out another record. I would’ve liked to have seen them back in the day because they looked like a lot of fun.
Again if you are a Phil Anselmo fan then you need to check out these records. Both bands are great in their own way and all the records are awesome. I, glad I got to see The Illegals open for Slayer because they were a perfect opener. I think it’s cool how Phil uses musicians from his other projects in these bands too. Like for example I think the bass player from Scour is also in The Illegals. Anyway, check these records out and if you haven’t heard them in awhile, give them another spin.
Sinister Reviews 