RUTHLESS "Evil Within"

RUTHLESS

"Evil Within"

Guys like Sammy DeJohn and Ken McGee are the backbone of the metal scene. They are the long time vocalist and guitarist of RUTHLESS, a band that’s been treading the boards since the mid-80’s. They keep the metal faith and stay true to their sound.

It pains me to relate that the sound is rather average on "Evil Within". The record can be described as nothing other than American heavy metal rooted in the 80’s. That’s pretty cool in itself and something I’m a devoted fan of, but nothing on this record pops. It just kind of trundles along. McGee’s lead guitar work is excellent and the real appeal here. DeJohn’s vocals are full blooded and histrionic and a little over the top sometimes, but he gives it his all. The new rhythm section of RUTHLESS performs with efficiency. The chief defect here is just average songwriting.

You should definitely not expect speed metal or thrash here. The songs move forward at a “typical” metal pace but never kick into high gear. That’s no sin, either, but you can have slower crunchers that really grab you by the back of the neck. Here, the songs are mildly pleasing but not something that will force you into rabid fist pumping.

RUTHLESS is a great live band, I can vouch for that, but that energy hasn’t really transferred itself into "Evil Within". Devoted fans of traditional US metal may still want to check it out, though.

PURE STEEL

RUTHLESS