Into the Pit
REVIEWS
The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly
Into
the Pit
REVIEWS
The Good, the Bad, & the
Ugly
Ultimatum - Into The Pit
Retroactive Records
file under: Speed / Thrash metal
Ultimatum - Into The PitNima: When I received this album, my first thought was: "This looks rather familiar!". After digging deep in my worn-out memory I realised I was dealing with the same American Ultimatum that released the debut album 'Symphonic Extremities' in 1995. The last sign of life from these thrashers was their 'Til The End' EP, and then we're talking about seven years ago.
Last year the band finally released a new album. I use the word "finally" because the thrash metal these guys produce is the kind that applies to me perfectly. They don't concentrate on the (unwritten) rules of the traditional Bay Area thrash and are one of the few bands that actually add something to the genre with their own interpretation. Ultimatum picks the chaotich elements of a band like Dark Angel, mixes it with the more neat sound of a band like Testament and adds the groove of a band like Pantera to the whole. What you get is a fistful of thrashers that make you realise once again why you call yourself a metal head. The rough and almost dirty, to Darren Travis reminding, vocals of Scott Waters fits perfectly to the whole and makes you put the evil look back on your face, with the fitting devil horns and ballistic movements. And that's the exact feeling that makes me say "Yeah! This is METAL!"
However, not all the songs on this album are new. The CD contains the complete 'Til The End' EP and they have also re-recorded the fantastic headbanger 'Blink' from the debut album. Also on this record is represented a rather successful version of the Iron Maiden classic 'Wrathchild'. So what remains are five brand new songs, but of course that is no reason for less pleasure, because the sound and production of the re-recorded songs is ten times better than the originals. And besides, mixing the old songs with the new ones proves that the band hasn't changed it's original course and that is, to me, only positive. This album also shows that Ultimatum is back and that's the most important. Being a real thrasher, you can purchase this album without hesitation.
Rating: 85/100
Lords
of Metal
 |
ULTIMATUM Into the Pit (Retroactive) New Mexico’s Christian thrash/speed/heavy metal act Ultimatum don’t mask their music behind gimmicks or a forced modern style of metal that comes across as hokey. They play ‘80s-inspired heavy metal and proudly—with a capital “P”—wear it on their sleeves. And that’s all that matters as they steamroll through Into the Pit with confidence and attitude, churning out killer tunes in the vein of classic bands like Accept, Exodus, Megadeth and Testament. Plus they get props for a heavier cover of Iron Maiden’s classic, ‘Wrathchild.” Good, solid heavy metal. Adrian Bromley |
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ULTIMATUM Into the Pit (Retroactive) Joseph Graham |
Ultimatum Into the Pit
This is a long over do review for me since I picked this album as the best album of 2007!! Thrash metal happens to be one of my favorite metal genres and that`s what you will get with Ultimatum These guys have been around for 15 years and never have slowed down that`s why I like this new album..These guys don`t let time change the style of thier music.. If a heavy guitar sound was everything that mattered then "Into the Pit" would be a certain winner added with Scott Waters killer vocals.. Fans of Accept, Exodus and Overkill will love this new album. The "Heart Of Metal". This song is already a classic! In fact It`s a great metal anthem song for Chirtian or secular music scene..As for the Wratchild (Iron Maiden cover) this was great to listen to. I have not heard this song in a long time and these guys did a awsome job on it... Iron Maiden would be proud of them.. But on a serious note "One For All", "Deathwish" and "Blind Faith" these songs have the message of God and are the basis of the music on the album! Let`s pray we don`t have to wait 6 years for a new album!!!! this album gets a 5/5
Dale/Metal Pulse radio
Ultimatum - Into The
Pit - USA - 2007
Genre: Groove/Thrash
Label: Retroactive Records
Playing time: 44:40
Rating: (9/10)
At a time when a lot on new Thrash Metal bands are shooting for the “Bonded
By Blood” era of Thrash, ULTIMATUM does something a little different. They shoot
for the later era of Thrash when many of the bands went with a lot groovier
material and lost a lot of the chaotic nature of Thrash. And surprisingly the
band succeeds at it. Many Thrash fans may hoo-hah over this but the fact of
the matter is this: ULTIMATUM plays groove inspired Thrash Metal on “Into The
Pit” and they play it well.
Now it’s not surprising that this is the form of Metal they choose to play. The band has been around for a while. 1992 is what my records show and that was the time when this groove Thrash was big. The interesting part about this is that the band continues to play it even on their fourth full length album 15 years later. That’s dedication my friends.
So when going into “Into The Pit” go in expecting some PANTERA flavored chugging riffs with some technical leads and solos that break up the rhythms. Expect some heavy bass work (which is not only prominent but quite impressive and varied) along with some wide ranging drum tempos. This band has some killer rhythms though and right away from the opening riff of “One For All” to the end of “Game Over” there are going to be catchy chunk riffs and some very technical solos. Both guitarists succeed at pulling off the chugging riffs and the solos as they smoothly trade between the two. Those 15 years have paid off for the band.
What really makes ULTIMATUM push further back towards the Thrash realm and away from the Post Thrash realm is the vocalist. Scott Waters uses a better Thrash tone of harsh, raspy vocals than most modern Thrash bands and he refuses to step towards that barking style that has become the main choice. It’s a great sound he has and it really adds that extra edge the album that I was looking for.
It’s not often that you come across a new album that continues a style that was condemned by many, but ULTIMATUM not only pulls it off with professionalism but they throw their hearts into it. You can tell just by the pureness of their music and the earnest of their song writing. They aren’t here for the money or the fame – they are here for Metal and they aren’t going anywhere any time soon. Even if it takes another 7 years to release a full length album, I know I’ll be awaiting the next release.
Songs to check out: “One For All”, “Deathwish”, “Blind Faith”.
(Online March 3, 2008)
-Matt
Metal-Observer.com
ULTIMATUM - INTO THE
PIT - RETROACTIVE RECORDS
Published: 3/08
POINTS: 95 / 100
Iowa, United States Of America based Retroactive Records are definitely the leaders in delivering the most impressive Christian Metal and Hard Rock albums. To keep a long list short, they brought out excellent works such as Deliverance, Titanic, Armageddon, Rosanna's Raiders, Whitecross, Seventh Power, Bride,...one of the latest Retroactive Records albums ready to unleash is "Into The Pit" from Ultimatum...brothers and sisters, buckle up for some real US Thrash Metal!
Besides releasing a couple of demo's since early 1992, New Mexico based Ultimatum also appeared on numerous tribute or compilation albums but the main thing for a band like this is they're also proud owners of 4 full length releases and one EP. First decade of existence, everything goes rather smoothly...unfortunately after the release of ''Mechanics of Perilous Times", fans had to wait six years for something new, a next Thrash Metal attack! Actually no problem about that because the guys are fianally back with a vengeance..."Into The Pit" is the title of the new born baby and is able to blow you all away...everything are effectively mowed in your surroundings.
Besides releasing a couple of demo's since early 1992, New Mexico based Ultimatum also appeared on numerous tribute or compilation albums but the main thing for a band like this is they're also proud owners of 4 full length releases and one EP. First decade of existence, everything goes rather smoothly...unfortunately after the release of ''Mechanics of Perilous Times", fans had to wait six years for something new, a next Thrash Metal attack! Actually no problem about that because the guys are fianally back with a vengeance..."Into The Pit" is the title of the new born baby and is able to blow you all away...everything are effectively mowed in your surroundings.
This is the one and only Ultimatum release that completes my CD collection, i've heard only a few songs on the net before but nothing more. I knew these guys' played a blend of US Power / Speed and Thrash Metal but had not expected that the whole package was so intense, strength-full and perfectly arranged...Ultimatum is a band that returns me to think of the almighty, superior Bay Area Thrash Metal scene. Remember bands like early Exodus / Overkill / Tourniquet / Vengeance Rising / Sacrament / Living Sacrifice / Believer / Forbidden / Torture ... and loads of others...be sure, you're in the neighbourhood of Ultimatum.
Oh my God, Vocalist Scott Waters' voice is outstanding! Aggressive to the bone, this long-haired brother of Metal does remind me to Roger Martinez of Vengenance Rising and Steve Souza (ex-Exodus). His way of virulently and aggressive way of singing is brilliant, it really bites! Fans of firm guitar duels, "Into The Pit" is what you're looking for. There's a battle going on as soon as the present shredders show up with devastating hooks, leads, rhythms...all delivered with brilliant melodies, different ways of tempo's,...you get here the bests of the bests served up! Bass works (4 and 8 string) roar real hard and drummer in charge pounds its skins without mercy...fast and furious but checked with a perfect form of concentration.
First hit 'One For All' starts with a great riffing, some melodic guitars in the background...shortly after, all explodes like thunder cracks the sky. Just like in the 'Classic Metal' period, this song seizes me immediately to the throat. Power and aggression stand as one! More power, speed and aggression to expect with 'Heart Of Metal'...Superb! Halfway the entire album, early Iron Maiden fans are rewarded with 'Wrathchild'...the aggressive version of legendary Maiden, check it out and band that head! Also fantastic are the fast one 'Transgressor' and up-tempo, {blocked}er ones 'Blink' and 'Blind Faith'. Title song is actually an instrumental played with a lot of passion and greed to bring it on in a perfect way.
My final conclusion concerning "Into The Pit" is in the first place...this is an American way of Thrash Metal and my admiration for this form of music is infinite. Do i prefer the US Metal movement above the European scene? I'd say persuading yeah! With all respect for the European Metal movement which I also admire with a lot of dignity... to me, most of the US based formations bring on Metal music with a different character. It's in my veins, maybe hard to understand for some of you out there but that's the way i feel about this point. On the other side, i know some close brothers who'll surely share this feeling with me but i refuse to mention names...you know who you are!
About Ultimatum, DEFINITELY a must-have for all those into US Classic Power / Speed and Thrash Metal. Magnificent release to me!! To order or find out some more information of Ultimatum, check the following sites please: www.retroactiverecords.net , www.musicbuymail.eu , http://www.ultimatum.net/ , www.artistworxx.de
INTO THE PIT (2007)
RETROACTIVE
6 years is way to long to have to wait for a new album from one of your favorite
bands. And in truth, it doesn't feel like it was in 2001 we last heard a new
full-length album from Ultimatum. The first time I heard a new track that was
going to be on the new album, was in 2003, when Scott sent me a rough demo version
of "Heart Of Metal". I've been eagerly awaiting 'Into The Pit' ever since! And
boy, is it worth the wait. The boys have once again turned it up a notch, and
haven't settled for a sub par release. 'Into The Pit' contains 9 "new" songs,
a cool cover of Iron Maiden's "Wrathchild", and a newly recorded studio version
of "Blink", one of my favorite songs from the bands debut album. Every song
sports a crunchy sound, with Roberts signature guitar-tone as a main focus.
The man is really getting out of his shell, delivering his best riffs, solos
and overall guitar-work. Just check out the bridge going into, and continuing
during the chorus for "Blind Faith"! That riff alone is worth the disc!! And
don't get me started on the awesome "Heart Of Metal". That song is already a
classic! In fact, the entire album is friggin' great, and I constantly change
favorite tracks from it. Scott has also roughened up the vocals a bit, using
a more aggressive approach, not unlike what he was doing in Once Dead. I think
it really suits the bands music, and creates another unique feature for them.
I also totally dig Rob's pummeling bass work. He is very audible throughout
the entire disc, and it is the first time I am really aware of the bass on an
Ultimatum album. Sean has always been a monster drummer, and his work will be
missed in the band. But I think they have found a worthy replacement in Alan
Tuma. 'Into The Pit' is easily the bands best effort to date, and it will be
a hard task to follow up with anything stronger than this.
-Kurt Morgan Skjæringrud
Metal-Metropolis.com
Ultimatum – Into The
Pit
Retroactive Records
Mighty New Mexico thrasher’s Ultimatum return with their first album in 6 years
titled Into The Pit. Not only is this album a long time coming, it also very
well may be the best music Ultimatum has ever produced in their 14 year existence.
Best described as a blend of Classic and Thrash Metal, Ultimatum’s sound is pure, simple and true. Loads of double kick drums, ripping guitar solos & riffs galore! Guitarist Robert Gutierrez absolutely shreds all the way through this album. Vocally, Scott Waters displays a growly, Death Metal influenced vocal style similar to that of early Vengeance Rising and Celtic Frost. Song to song, the band are relentless in their presentation and execution pouring themselves completely into their performances. The energy really comes across on this recording. Some of the best numbers include “Blood Covenant”, “One For All”, “Exonerate”, “Blind Faith” and a spirited rendition of Iron Maiden’s “Wrathchild”.
All in all, Ultimatum has
produced one of the year’s top Thrash Metal albums along with 2007 releases
from Hirax, Evile, Fueled By Fire and Dekapitator. In other words, it’s easily
a Top 10 Thrash release. If you like your Metal straight to the point and thrashy,
dig into this.
- Shawn Pelata
THE
TEETH OF THE DIVINE
Ultimatum Into the Pit
80/100
The North American band Ultimatum started in 1992. I must admit that I don't
know their earlier records, but I will look for them in the future. The band
started with a demo called: "Fatal Delay” in 1993. The first record was completed
in 1995 called: 'Symphonic Extremities". In 1998 they released their second
album called: "Puppet of Destruction". Their third album: "The Mechanic of Perilous
Times" was issued in 2001. The EP "Till the End" came out in 2006. And now there
is their new one: "Into the Pit".
The band is a band with Christian lyrics. I hear you thinking, oh no... But I must admit, when you are not so narrow minded, this isn't a problem at all. They do not overdo it like Stryper does. I don't think they will be throwing Bibles into the audience like Stryper.
Ultimatum is: Robert Gutierrez - lead and rhythm guitars, Scott Waters - vocals, Rob Whitlock - 4 & 8 string bass and Alan Tuma - drums. Some drum parts are played by Sean Diego. But the most important thing is what their music is like!
Expect a mixture of speed/trash like bands such as Overkill, Exodus (especially the vocals) and Vengeance Rising played in their earlier days. You can say that the band plays old school thrash. The vocals are a mixture of Udo Dirkschneider and Exodus-like vocals. The numbers are played fast and tight. Although I must say that the songs don't have the quality of Exodus. One song I must mention is the Iron Maiden cover “Wrathchild” - they play that song in their own style, it sounds good, but they don't beat the original.
Final conclusion: a good speed/thrash album worth listening to.
- Reinier de Vries
Powermetal.dk
Ultimatum, Into the
Pit, 4/6,
"Dette er den fjerde fullengderen til Ultimatum, men vi må helt tilbake til
2001 for å finne forgjengeren. Amerikanerne fremfører kraftfull thrash metal
med et markant heavy metal-element, noe som blant annet kommer til utløp i en
versjon av Iron Maidens "Wratchild". Litt skjematisk kan bandet kanskje beskrives
som en blanding av Exodus, Overkill og Metal Church. Ingen dårlig attest det,
men Ultimatum er selvsagt ikke i nærheten av nivået disse aktørene holder på
sitt beste. Likevel er det en hel del å glede seg over her. Vokalist Scott Waters
bjeffer og snerrer seg pågående gjennom skiva, og tilfører litt snert til et
album som nok er kledd i en lyddrakt som, til tross for (eller kanskje på grunn
av) at den er kraftfull, fremstår som en smule for klinisk. Låtmaterialet er
jevnt over bra, kanskje med en ekstra pluss til "Deathwish" og den herlig banale
"Heart Of Metal", hvor bandet klart får utløp for de nevnte heavy metal-tendensene.
På plussiden nevnes også en del riktig så fine soloer. Jeg føler meg litt snill
som gir en firer, men luker en bort de mest midtempoorienterte stakattopregede
riffpartiene og får til en noe skitnere produksjon neste gang, kan dette virkelig
bli noe."
-Leif Kringen
Scream Magazine
Norway
English Translation by Kurt Morgan Skjæringrud
"This is the 4th full-length album from Ultimatum, but we have to go as far back as to 2001 to find its predecessor. The Americans present powerful thrash metal with a marked heavy metal element, something that for example comes across in a version of Iron Maiden's "Wratchild". A general outline would maybe be to describe them as a mix/blend of Exodus, Overkill and Metal Church. Not a bad testimonial, but Ultimatum are of course not close to the level any of these acts are on when they are at their best. Still there is plenty to be happy about here. Vocalist Scott Waters barks and sneers aggressively throughout the album, and adds some pizzaz to an album that might be clad in a sound that, despite (or maybe because of) being powerful, comes across as a little too clinical. The songs are evely good throughout, maybe with an extra plus to "Deathwish" and the delightfuly cheesy "Heart Of Metal", where the band clearly gets an outlet for the mentioned heavy metal tendencies. Another plus is also given to some great guitar solos. I do feel a little nice to give the album a 4, but if they can weed out some of the more mid-tempo-oriented staccato-like riffs, and creates a "dirtier" production the next time, they a definitly on to something."And an additional note from a Norwegian reader:
I subscribe to Scream Magazine, and it was a pleasure to read a review of Into the Pit in the biggest Metal magazine in Norway! You guys should be very proud of it too, this reviewer does not give out to many high scores, so giving it 4 of 6, means that he really likes it! Well deserved, hopefully it will get you some more Norwegian fans. -Olafsto
Ultimatum
Into the Pit Retroactive Records
Comments: Ultimatum is an American Christian Thrash metal band formed in 1992 by guitarist Robert Gutierrez. But don’t let the fact that these boys believe in Christ lead you astray, they also produce tremendous heavy metal music. Their fourth full length disc Into the Pit is out now on Retroactive Records.
The CD starts out with punishing riffs, then a nice “dark” melody line jumps in and “One for All” sets the formidable tone. There is nothing new or highly technical here just in your face classic thrash metal played the way it should be. The axe solo leaps out and gives the guitar head a taste of pure speed as Robert Gutierrez splays the fret board with a serious madness. Scott Waters brings a harsher and more shrill style ala Overkill’s “Bobby Blitz” Ellsworth as well as a few death styled vocals too.
The next song is “Exonerate” and is a weird mix of thrash that reminds of older Suicidal Tendencies mixed with a bit of death metal.
“Deathwish” has thunderous riffs from Gutierrez a deep bass line from Rob Whitlock as its calling cards. Waters almost resembles Jeff Walker of Carcass with his gravelly vocals especially the way Waters sings “Deaaaaathwish” in the songs chorus’s. The solo here is classic death metal and is not far off of the dark quality of James Murphy during his Obituary days.
On the next song “Blood Covenant” Gutierrez is special on axe as he plays 2 or three excellent leads in the first 100 seconds of the song alone.
“Heart of Metal” sees heavy treacherous riffs again but this time they are matched with outstanding double bass line leads from drummer Alan Tuma. Seeing this talent almost makes the CD seem disappointing as you realize they had the talent to bring it more technically if they’d wanted to. That feeling quickly dissipates as Guitierrez hits you with a distortion filled solo that blends right into the melody and Whitlock kicks you in the teeth with more nasty bass notes.
Those bass notes jump to the forefront on the next cut “Wrathchild” an Iron Maiden cover. Obviously the critique here is the vocals of Waters are not going to measure close to Dickinson’s but Gutierrez saves the day again with his clear talent, more than matching the Maiden guitar sections.
Speaking of NWOBHM axe wielders, the next cut “Transgressors” is very reminiscent of the solo playing ability of Judas Priest’s Glenn Tipton. His chops and fret work are furious yet clean and pure.
The album's title track is a mellow and docile instrumental featuring pretty single notes and deep bass tones. It hits a near George Lynch ballad solo feel when Gutierrez grabs it by the throat and slices it up.
Lyrics like “It’s time to wake up before you lose” in “Game Over” are their attempt to save souls.
The act that they are Christians only adds to their appeal as that contingent has been hoping to have a viable option to bang their heads to for years and years.
Well folks you get the picture, this is a solid band with an exceptional guitarist that seems to have taken the formula for successful heavier ‘80s metal genres and decided to create the ultimate pure metal album, no more no less.
-Matthew Hoffman
Staff Writer
hardrockhaven.net
 |
ULTIMATUM INTO THE PIT As a survivor of the 80's to 90's Christian thrash era (although hopefully not the last) and an old school "metal as missions" proponent, Ultimatum's new full length "Into the Pit" has been highly anticipated. Comparisons to Exodus and older Metal Church are come by honestly, but the new album is world's beyond Ultimatum's previous efforts, as the lucky few who purchased last year's "teaser" EP can attest. Singer Scott Water' razor-tongued shrieks stick out in a world of hardcore screaming and death metal growls, but might be best described as a cross between Roger Martinez (thus his stint with Once Dead) and Accept's Udo. The album is full of some heavy riffing, sprinkling of fiery axework and memorable tunes, in spite of the formula tasting stale at a couple turns. Still, A giant step forward for these thrashers; well worth the price of admission -Chris Gatto Heaven's Metal/HM Magazine |
ULTIMATUM “Into The Pit”,
release: 29.02.2008 (Retroactive/Music Buy Mail)
ULTIMATUM are back, back “Into The Pit”, back after 6 years of absence. With
“Into The Pit” the US trash/speed metal vetarans once again have unleashed a
pure metal fury, following their idols Exodus, Tourniquet, Vengeance Rising,
Megadeth, Overkill and Forbidden. They definitely have matured over the years
and are now displaying themselves as a tight and perfect working old school
heavy metal machine. Watch out … this stuff is dangerously heavy!
http://www.melodic.net/
Ultimatum - Into the
Pit
Overall Grade: 93/100
First off, I would like to say the production is the best so far. Scott's vocals
have never sounded better. I like the deeper end than some of the higher vocals
he's employed in past albums. The riffs are terrific and memorable and the heaviest
I have heard from these guys. The drums are also better than on the past albums,
even though they used two drummers. I think I like the new guy a bit better.
I was a bit let down by the drum sound of of the Mechanics album. The solos
are great also. I listened to the album in my head phones and it was cool to
pick up on the subtleties of the solos. The Iron Maiden cover is fine, but nothing
spectacular. It has the Ultimatum stamp on it, and I guess covering Maiden isn't
the easiest task when trying to please their fans. I think Ultimatum should
make it a tradition of putting a classic cover song on each new album. Now the
title instrumental track reminded me a bit of the early Metallica instrumentals,
at the the beginning part at least. I sort of enjoyed the Mutamitlu instrumental
a tad bit more from the last full-length. Also, since I was familiar with some
of the songs from the E.P., it was great to hear them at full throttle. What
else can I say? I got the Overkill album a day after this, and I prefer listening
to this more than the Overkill. If that isn't a compliment, I don't know what
it.
-Vartan Shatarevyan
ULTIMATUM
Titolo/Title: "Into The Pit"
Etichetta/Label: Retroactive Records
Anno/Year: 2007
Nazione/Nation: USA
Voto/Vote: 7.5/10
Il nuovo album degli Ultimatum esce nel 2007 e si intitola "Into The Pit".
Non a caso si evoca il "pit", il luogo in cui, di fronte al palco, i fan del
thrash metal più oltranzista si scatenano nel pogo e nell'headbanging selvaggio.
Questo nuovo CD della band americana è infatti un manifesto del thrash più classico,
innervato delle classiche ritmiche moshy, tipiche della band della costa orientale,
da Anthrax a Overkill nella scena secolare. Il nuovo disco si fa valere per
diversi fattori. Prima di tutto la produzione è ottimale e la violenza del sound
dei nostri emerge con vigore; in secondo luogo il lavoro alle chitarre di Robert
Gutierrez è davvero superlativo. Nel corso delle undici track presenti il chitarrista
inanella una serie di riff che siamo sicuri diventeranno dei classici per la
band e per il genere. Non viene poi tralasciato il legame fortissimo con lo
stile degli Overkill del periodo mediano, garantito dalla voce di Scott Waters
(anche in forza negli Once Dead); la sua ugola, non certo sopraffina, ma acidissima
ed energica, dona un quid di cattiveria in più a schitarrate già arrembanti.
Aggiungiamo poi che l'ottima registrazione fa emergere con grande sfoggio di
potenza il lavoro della sezione ritmica di Rob Whitlock (basso) e Alan Tuma
(batteria), ben visibile in vari frangenti a partire dall'iniziale inno thrashy
intitolato 'One For All'. Si può forse dire che questo CD rimarrà come il lavoro
degli "inni" degli Ultimatum, che oltre all'opener aggiungono la grandiosa 'Heart
Of Metal', un vero anthem, ritmatisssimo e decisamente mosh, dedicato ai thrasher,
come emerge dal testo del micidiale ritornello: "Neck snapin', fist pumpin',
head banging, heart of metal." Il disco non manca di sorprendere con una cover
di 'Wratchild' degli Iron Maiden, rivista in stile Ultimatum, ossia molto più
grezza e abbastanza deludente. I nostri invece colpiscono sempre nel migliore
dei modi quando si esprimono "a modo loro", come nel caso di un alro pezzo da
novanta come la cadenzata e potentissima 'Deathwish', che inizia con lo zompettante
basso di Rob in primo piano. Veramente devastante è poi la nuova versione di
'Blink', che vede come ospite all'assolo di chitarra Augustine Ortiz. La versione
originale di "Symphonic Extremities" era poco più di una demo song, qui invece
siamo di fronte a una signora canzone di puro mosh che farà la gioia di tutti
i pogatori del globo. La fede fortissima dei nostri esce in brani come la più
oscura e cadenzata 'Blood Covenant' ed ha come protagonista assoluto Gesù Cristo
e la salvezza che egli porta al mondo: "Jesus Christ the author, perfector of
our faith, who for the joy before Him / Bore the cross'shame, pardon our iniquity,
removed the crimson stain / Through sacrifice, redeem the human race." In alcune
song come ad esempio 'Exonerate' in cui si può riconoscere un'ispirazione derivante
dai secolari Sadus, ritroviamo il tema della Salvezza: "Praise the One who paid
the debt, / The debt I could not pay, raise this life, / From the dead, fellowship
restored. / Restored!" In conclusione, nonostante "Into The Pit" sia stato realizzato
in un lungo arco temporale (consideriamo che il precedente album "The Mechanics
Of Perilous Times" era del 2001), l'impressione all'ascolto è di un lavoro compatto
e pieno di energia che fa raggiungere agli Ultimatum ottime vette compositive.
-Leonardo Cammi
www.holysteel.com
ENGLISH TRANSLATION
The new Ultimatum's album came out in 2007 and it's titled "Into The Pit". It isn't a coincidence that "pit" is evoked, the location in which, at front of the stage, the thrash metal fans unleash themselves in the mosh and in a savage headbanging. This new CD of the American band is in fact a manifest of the most classic thrash, containing the moshy classic rhythms, typical of the bands of the oriental coast, from Anthrax to Overkill regarding the secular scene. The new album is good for different reasons.First of all the production is optimal and the violence of the sound rises with vigour; then the work of the Robert Gutierrez's guitars is really superlative. Along the eleven tracks the guitar player undertakes a succession of riffs that we are sure that will become classics for the band and for the genre. It doesn't miss the strong relation with the Overkill style of their middle period, guaranteed by the voice of Scott Waters (also powerful in Once Dead); his throat, excellent, very acid and energic, donates a reason of more naughtiness with rumbling guitar playings. We can add then that the optimus recording let increases with powerfull the work of the rythmic section of Rob Whitlock (bass guitar) and Alan Tuma (drums), well visible in many parts starting from the initial thrash hymn titled 'One For All'.
We can maybe say that this CD will remain like the work of the Ultimatum's hymns, that other than the opening , they add the great 'Heart Of Metal', a real anthem, very rhythmic and decisely mosh, dedicated to the thrashers, as we can see from the lyric of the lethal refrain: "Neck snapin, first pumpin, headbanging, heart of metal."
The album doesn't fail to suprise with the Iron Maiden's "Wratchild" cover, recorded in Ultimatum style, much more rawer and not disappointing. Ultimatum always reach their target in the better way when they express themselves "in their way", like the situation of another great piece like the cadenced and powerful 'Deathwish', that starts with the bass guitar of Rob. Really powerful is the new version of 'Blink', that contains like guest to the guitar solo Augustine Ortiz. The original version of 'Symphonic Extremities' was more than less than a demo song, here instead we have pure heavy metal mosh, that will make happy all the moshers of the globe.
The album doesn't fail to suprise with the Iron Maiden's "Wratchild" cover, recorded in Ultimatum style, much more rawer and not disappointing. Ultimatum always reach their target in the better way when they express themselves "in their way", like the situation of another great piece like the cadenced and powerful 'Deathwish', that starts with the bass guitar of Rob. Really powerful is the new version of 'Blink', that contains like guest to the guitar solo Augustine Ortiz. The original version of 'Symphonic Extremities' was more than less than a demo song, here instead we have pure heavy metal mosh, that will make happy all the moshers of the globe.
The strong faith of Ultimatum comes out in songs like the darkest and cadenced song 'Blood Covenant' and it has like absolute protagonist Jesus Christ and the safety that he takes to the world: "Jesus Christ the author, perfector of our faith, who for the joy before Him / Bore the cross'shame, pardon our iniquity, removed the crimson stain / Through sacrifice, redeem the human race." In some songs like fo example 'Exonerate' in which we can recognize an inspiration deriving from the secular Sadus, we can find yet the Safety theme : "Praise the One who paid the debt, / The debt I could not pay, raise this life, / From the dead, fellowship restored. / Restored!"
In conclusion, despite the fact that 'Into the Pit' took a long time to be delivered (let's consider that the previous album 'The Mechanics Of Perilous Times' was made in 2001), the impression to the listener is a compact work, full of energy that and is filled with very good compositions from Ultimatum.
-Leonardo Cammi
www.holysteel.com
Ultimatum - Into the
Pit (2007)
Label: Retroactive Records/Music buy Mail
Punkte: 9/10
Da wird sich der liebe Gott aber freuen, die christliche Thrash Metal Band „Ulitmatum“ meldet sich nach sechs Jahren aus der Versenkung zurück. „Ultimatum“ wurden 1992 in New Mexico von Gitarrist „Robert Guitierrez“ und „Steve Trujillo“ gegründet. Die Band entstand aus der Asche von „Holy Sacrifice“ und die Musik entspricht vom musikalischen Aspekt her dem Bay Area Thrash Metal ala „Exodus“, „Death Angel“ oder „Forbidden“. Der Unterschied zu diesen Bands besteht natürlich in den Lyrics die man allerdings gar nicht versteht da Sänger „Scott Waters“ losbrüllt wie ein Verrückter.
o liebe Freude, das war ein ganz kleiner Einblick auf die Biografie von „Ulitmatum“ nun geht es aber ans eingemachte denn obwohl man hier eigentlich nicht fluchen sollte, kam folgendes aus meinem Mund als ich die Mucke von „Ultimatum“ hörte: „Scheisse, verflucht noch eins das ist ja mal so richtig geiler Trash Metal“. Nun, ich kann euch wirklich sagen, „Into the Pit“ ist unglaublich geil und knallt einem ein volles Brett an Speed Gitarren vor den Latz. Das letzte Mal das ich bei einer neuen Thrash Scheibe so in Euphorie gefallen bin, war beim neuen „Onslaught“ Album. Ob Christen oder nicht, „Ulitmatum“ treten hochkant in den Arsch und klingen Old Schoolig wie eh und je. Von der Power her die hier an den Tag gelegt wird, erinnert mich das Ganze an „3 Inches of Blood“ wobei hier natürlich nur einer singt und der heisst „Scott Waters“. Nun, hier gibt es keine Kompromisse das merkt man bereits beim Opener „One for All“ der schlägt ein wie eine Bombe. Mit einem ordentlichen Brett 80’er Thrash Metal der feinsten Sorge geht es dann weiter mit „Exonerate“ und dem ultra coolen „Deathwish“. Leute, sofern ihr auf 80er Thrash/Speed Metal steht, werdet ihr die Scheibe genau so lieben wie ich. Sogar das „Iron Maiden“ Cover „Wrathchild“ ist mehr als gelungen. Produziert wurde das Album von „Ysidro Garcia“ und der Band und der Sound haut einem fast vom Sessel…1A Qualität!! „Into the Pit“ ist ein unglaublich frisches und wuchtiges Thrash Metal Album welches mich bestimmt noch Jahrelang fesseln wird. Ein Muss für Fan
Autor: Vince Platten
SLEAZE-METAL.COM
ULTIMATUM - Into The Pit
Thrash Metal
Label/Kontakt: Retroactive Records
11 Songs (44:45)
Punkte: 7/10
Cover von Ultimatum - Into The Pit"Hallo Fräulein? Jetzt bin ich aber genug hin und her verbunden worden! Ich drücke jetzt keinen einzigen Knopf mehr auf meinem Apparat! So, ich habe ein paar Fragen zu der Platte, die ich bei Ihnen bestellt habe. Nein, Sie hören mir jetzt zu, denn ich komme nicht so ganz zurecht damit. Was? Ist mir egal, was Ihre “After-Sales-Abteilung“ ist, Sie helfen mir jetzt!
Erstens: Wie kann es angehen, dass Old School Thrash christliche Texte aufweist? Ach, das ist vereinbar? Da stand aber nichts auf der Verpackung! Das macht die Band schon immer so? Na gut, mir soll es recht sein. Aber auf dem Beipackzettel stand was von Schneidbrenner-Riffs… wie kann ich die denn anstellen? Ich glaube, die habt ihr vergessen! Zumindest bekomme ich sie nicht ans Laufen… Achso… sind schon im Album vollautomatisch drin. Alles im Lieferumfang? Aha, kommt am Anfang NACH den hocheingängigen Refrains… Ja, da haben Sie Recht, Fräulein, jetzt, wo sie es sagen… Entschuldigung! Ich habe aber noch nicht verstanden, wer oder was jetzt MORTIFICATION und FORBIDDEN sind. Ja, da stand was in der Betriebsanleitung… aber das Chinesisch versteht ja keiner! Achso, die Band kommt aus USA… ja, ich meinte auch die Anleitung. Also was sind jetzt FORBIDDEN, MEGADETH und so weiter? Ist auch egal, was das ist, ich bin sicher, ihr habt vergessen, das einzubauen! Ständig fehlt halt irgendwas, was eigentlich im Zubehör enthalten sein müsste…Aha! Das sind die hörbaren Vorbilder von ULTIMATUM… gut, wenn Sie das sagen. Ach, Sie haben da Presseberichte zu, die das bestätigen? Presse ist ja gut und schön, mir wäre es lieber, die Platte wäre auch von der Stiftung Warentest… Ach! Ist sie? Fein… Note „gut“! Welche Ausgabe ist das denn, Fräulein, ich würde das gerne nachprüfen… Ja, danke!
Was habe ich eigentlich unter einer trockenen Produktion zu verstehen? Ich will ja nicht, dass die Platte irgendwie scheuert oder so… Achja, verstehe, Fräulein… So, zu den melodischen Refrains: Da sind aber nicht ständig welche drauf… Ja, das habe ich wohl gemerkt. Aha, das Songwriting wird beim Nachfolger noch ein wenig verbessert. Gut, es ist ja jetzt nicht so, dass ich allzu viel dran auszusetzen hätte, mir fehlt nur ein echter Hit. Ja, die garantierte Abwechslung habe ich auch bemerkt, Fräulein. Nein, nein, da bin ich schon überzeugt, dass… Ja, da haben Sie auch wieder Recht… die Spielfreude kommt auch nicht zu kurz. Jetzt aber noch eine Frage zu dem Song „Warchild“… das ist doch nie im Leben ein Originalteil! Ja, sehen Sie, darauf wurde auf der Packung nicht hingewiesen… Aha! Hersteller kommt aus England… ja, da hätte man aber ruhig etwas aus eigener Produktion nehmen können. Das enttäuscht mich jetzt! Und noch was: Da ist ein METALLICA-Intro drauf… das habe ich im leben nicht bestellt! Erst so ein Intro wie aus den Neunzigern und dann singt überhaupt keiner! Da stimmt doch was nicht! Achso, ist ein Instrumental… Ja, kann ich mit leben, Fräulein. Nein, habe nichts weiter auszusetzen, ist ja schon eine lohnende Anschaffung, muss ich sagen. Werde ich sogar im Freundes/Bekanntenkreis weiterempfehlen… Ja, klar – jetzt, wo Sie so nett alle Fragen… genau…
Nein, bin sehr zufrieden, Fräulein! Ja, danke auch für Ihre freundliche Auskunft… Wiederhören!
Helga? Kannst den Rücksendeschein wegschmeißen… ist doch ne starke Platte!“
-Audaron (08.03.2008)
www.metal.de
Ultimatum "Into The Pit"
"...a crunchy, power-thrash disc from one of the best of the genre! "Deathwish",
"One For All", the remake of "Blink", and the cover of Iron Maiden's "Wrathchild"
are worth the price of admission!"
-Arttie Parker
Christian Metal Realm
Ultimatum - Into The
Pit - Retroactive Records- 2007
Simply put, the masters of thrash metal are back!!! Into the Pit qualifies as
a juggernaut of North American metal. This is great news for fans, since this
is the first new offering from Ultimatum in 6 long years! With Into the Pit,
the band has unleashed one of Thrash Metal's most shining moments, following
the footsteps of fellow peers Exodus, Tourniquet, Vengeance Rising, Megadeth.
Overkill, and Forbidden. With its thundering bass, fast drumming and a wealth
of Mastodonian rifferry, the boys have clearly learned from their elders, and
learned well. Guitarist, Robert Gutierrez fills every track with fiery, blowtorch
riffs and scorching solos. Vocalist Scott Waters far exceeds his commendable
efforts on previous albums, sounding every bit as brilliant as thrash legend,
Roger Martinez (Vengeance Rising), while never forsaking his classic Ultimatum
vocal style. Its rare to find a band able to progress and mature in their craft
so much without changing their sound.
-Matthew Hunt
Retroactive
Records
Ultimatum - Into The Pit
Thrash Metal
Label: Retroactive Records
Vertrieb: musicbuymail.eu
Zeit: 44:45 min
Tracks: 11
(am 02.03.2008)
ULTIMATUM starteten in 1992 in den Staaten, veröffentlichten 1995 ihr Debüt „Symphonic Extremities“ und nun mit „Into The Pit“ ihr viertes Album. Musikalisch gibt es den altehrwürdigen Thrash ohne Schnörkel, mit ansprechenden Soli und oft im Midtempo. Sänger Scott Waters klingt dabei mehr als räudig genug um auch hier Erinnerungen an alte Bay Area Tage aufkommen zu lassen. Wie das Label schon erahnen lässt, fühlen sich die fünf schweren Jungs (siehe Homepage) neben dem Metal auch den christlichen Werten verbunden. Wer damit keine Probleme hat, bekommt auf „Into The Pit“ unter anderem mit dem zäh treibenden „Blood Covenant“, der heftigen Double-Bass getragenen und mit starkem Riffing versehene „Heart Of Metal“ und „Blind Faith” mit seinen sich sofort festsetzenden Gitarrenpart gutes Futter für Magen und Nacken. Mit dem Maiden-Cover „Wrathchild“ kann ich mich, trotz cooler Umsetzung, aber nicht so toll anfreunden (vielleicht hänge ich da doch zu arg am Original). Sei’s drum! Für Old-School-Thrash Freaks mit Open Mind durchaus mal reinhörenswert.
-Gerhard Berlin (hardy)
METALinside.de
ROUGH ENGLISH TRANSLATION
ULTIMATUM started in 1992 in the USA, published their debut "Symphonic Extremities" in 1995 and now with "Into The Pit" have released their fourth full length album. Musically there is they are venerable, full-speed thrash, with impressive solos and some mid-tempo songs. Singer Scott Waters sounds fresh and at the same time brings around memories of the old Bay Area thrash metal days. How the label lets already surmise, the five heavy boys are very much connected to heavy metal, but they also have Christian values. He who has therewith no problems, gets overlooked heart on "Into The Pit" among other things with the tough, driving "Blood Covenant" that features a violent double-bass assault and strong metal riffing and "Blind Faith" with its guitar parts that are so good it left my stomach in a knot. With the Maiden-cover "Wrathchild", I cannot quite enjoy it as much despite the cool conversion, but so crazy (perhaps hang I there yet too badly on the original). Let it be done! For old-school thrash freaks with open minds, you will thoroughly enjoy this.-Gerhard Berlin (hardy)
METALinside.de
Ultimatum
Into the Pit
Full-Length, 2007
It seems as though the Christian thrash metal scene can not produce a bad band. Ultimatum are another proof to this rule. This is a very good 80's thrash metal band whose style recalls the Bay Area acts, but at the same time it also sounds close to David Wayne's (R.I.P.) Reverend, with a singer who is a dead ringer for Steve Souza from Exodus (and a very good one as such). Their debut is more melodic power/thrash with very catchy, sing-along songs, but the band harden the course on later releases, turning them into one of the better thrash metal works from the American metal scene of the past few years.
"Into the Pit" is an impressive comeback for the band after a long, 7-year break. The album contains both more melodic numbers ala the debut, and heavier ones along the lines of their more recent outputs. This time there are some faster thrashers which stir up the mood ("Exonerate", "Transgressor"), plus a cool cover version of Iron Maiden's "Wrathchild". "Into the Pit” is a bluesy instrumental with very nice guitar work.
-Ivan Muhov
The Thrash Metal
Guide
ULTIMATUM
Into the Pit
VÖ: 29.02.08
(Retroactive Records)
Benutzer Bewertung 5/5
CD-Reviews Geschrieben von Jochen Strubel
Ich glaub, thrashiger und old schooliger kann man kaum klingen als die Amis von Ultimatum, die uns die Hochzeiten des Bay Area noch mal erleben lassen.
In schleppendem Mid Tempo sägt Robert Gutierrez schon im Opener "One For All" geile Riffs in unseren Schädel und spaltet diesen auch mit klassischen Solos, die wirklich in die 80'er passen und heute immer noch gern gehört werden. Die Drums sind Alan Tuma schön knochentrocken gehalten, aber leider fehlt hier da der finale Kick, den uns dann aber Sänger Scott Waters gibt, der wie einst der leider verstorbende Paul Baloff klang. Eine Stimme wie für den Thrash gemacht. Bei "Exonerate" geht es ab und an auch mal etwas schneller zu Werke, aber in der Hauptsache konzentrien sich Ultimatum darauf, Mid Tempo Nackenbrecher zu spielen. Wie auch bei "Deathwish", wo am Anfang Basser Rob Whitlock seine Fähigkeiten in den Vordergrund stellen darf. In "Blood Covenant" steht vor allem wieder die Klampfe im Vordergrund, herrliches, teils sogar melodisches Riffing paart sich hier mit herrlichem Solo, der Track ist nicht schnell, besitzt aber mords Power. Bei "Heart of Metal" sagt der Titel schon alles, das Herz ist Thrash und mit Herzblut kommt der Song auch aus den Boxen geschossen. Einen bekannten Song gibt es mit "Wrathchild ", hier Covern die Amis Iron Maiden. Danach gibt es aber wieder selfmade Thrash Salven in Form von "Transgressor", die den Nacken ganz schön beansprucht. Stampfend geht es bei "Blink" zu, "Blind Faith" geht voll ab und das mörderische Solo ist voll krass. Ruhig und instrumental ist der Titeltrack, bevor es für die Scheibe "Game Over" heißt. Noch mal ein Nackenbrecher zum Schluss, der einfach purer Metal ist.
Früher haben wir bei Overkill, Exodus, Megadeth blind zugreifen können, wer auf die Heros der Bay Area steht, kann dies hier auch tun.
-Jochen Strubel
FFM-Rock
ROUGH ENGLISH TRANSLATION (using one of those free translators.)
ULTIMATUM
Into the Pit
Review Date: 2.28.08
(Retroactive Records)
User Estimation 5/5
CD-Reviews written by Jochen StrubelI can hardly believe the sound of the thrashy and old school American band Ultimatum, who let us experience sounds of the Bay Area yet once. The guitar work of the opener track "One For All" by Robert Gutierrez will drag and drill through your skull and split it open with classic solos, that really in that 80's it fit and are heard today still gladly. The drums are held Alan Tuma beautiful bone dry. The final kick, however, is singer Scott Waters gives us, is missing here there, that like once that unfortunately deceased Paul Baloff sounded. A voice such as for the Thrash made. In "Exonerate", it walks and at also once somewhat more quickly too works, but in the essential matter concentrates itself ultimatum on that, avoided speed neck breaker to play. How also in "Deathwish", where at the beginning of basses Rob Whitlock may place its capacities into the foreground. In "Blood Covenant", again the Klampfe in the foreground, lovely, partly even melodic stands mates above all. Riffing here with lovely solo, the track is not fast, however possesses murderous power. In "Heart of Metal", the title says is already all, that Thrash to heart and with heart blood, the song comes shot also out of the boxes. It gives a well known song with "Wrathchild", here covers the Americans of Iron Maiden. After that there are however again selfmade Thrash volley in form of "Transgressor" that claims the nape very beautifully. Tramping it closes goes in "Blink", "Blind Faith" fully off and the homicidal guitar solo is fully blatant. The title track is a quiet instrumental before the disk ends with "Game Over". Yet once again a head bander to the end that is simply pure heavy metal. Easily this CD stand with bands like Overkill, Exodus, Megadeth, who stands as the heroes of the thrash.
-Jochen Strubel
FFM-Rock
ULTIMATUM
Into The Pit
thrash
2007 - Retroactive Records
(USA)
A quindici anni dall'inizio della propria carriera, e a sei dall'ultimo album, gli Ultimatum pubblicano "Into The Pit", forse uno dei più belli della loro discografia. La formazione, proveniente dal New Mexico, è composta da quattro membri: Rob Whitlock al basso, Sean Griego alla batteria, Robert Gutierrez alla chitarra e Scott Waters al microfono, questi ultimi due unici presenti nella band sin dalla sua fondazione. Gli Ultimatum propongono un thrash metal abbastanza estremo, soprattutto per quanto riguarda le parti vocali, poiché la voce di Waters è molto dura e secca. Affascinante inoltre l'artwork dell'album, un disegno molto bello e ben realizzato raffigurante una mostruosa creatura (Satana), incatenata, che sta per cadere "dentro il fosso" ("Into The Pit") circondato da fiamme, identificabile con l'Inferno.
"Into The Pit" contiene 11 tracce di estremo thrash metal, tra cui una cover di Wrathchild, storico pezzo degli Iron Maiden.Tuffiamoci quindi in quello che è un massacro sonoro in puro thrash style. One for all, l'open track, esordisce con un veloce riff thrash, che riporta in mente i Pantera di "Cowboys From Hell" e ci fa già pregustare i successivi 37 minuti dell'album. Il cantato è secco, graffiante ed aggressivo, segno particolare e distintivo dell'intero album. Si continua con Exonerate, più potente e violenta della prima, già dall'inizio, quando un potentissimo riff sostenuto da quello che è definibile una sorta di frullatore batteristico, ci prepara a farci trasportare dall'energico refrain. Seguono Deathwish, aperta dal basso di Whitlock, Blood covenant, che presenta un bellissimo testo ed un fantastico assolo, ed Heart of metal, brani questi che portano le stesse caratteristiche delle prime tracce senza alcuna caduta di tono. Interessante Wrathchild, come già detto cover dello storico pezzo degli Iron Maiden dall'album "Killers", rivista e riarrangiata dalla band in chiave thrash, ottenendo a mio parere un buon risultato, ma pur sempre lontano dal livello dell'originale. La settima traccia, Trasgressor, veloce e ritmata, precede Blink, una vecchia canzone della band risalente al debut album "Symphonic Extremities", rivista e ri-registrata in maniera assolutamente superiore. Blind faith, che non si distacca dallo stile tipico dell'album, è seguita dalla stupenda title-track, Into the pit per l'appunto, pezzo strumentale aperto da un malinconico e fascinoso arpeggio che rievoca lo stile dei primi Metallica, seguito da un altrettanto bell'assolo, tema principale della canzone. Chiude l'album Game over, sulle stesse coordinate del resto del disco.
Un buon album destinato a diventare un classico della band, e, forse, dell'intero movimento del thrash cristiano. Certo, potrebbe non essere di gradimento a tutti poiché violento e, inutile negarlo, in alcune parti monotono, ma, in ogni caso, è da ammirare come la band abbia creato un sound così personale e distintivo.
VOTO: 75/100
-Enrico Riccobene
WHITEMETAL.it
ROUGH ENGLISH TRANSLATION (using one of those free translators.)
It's been fifteen years from the beginning of their actual career to the time of their most recent album, "Into The Pit" by Ultimatum and perhaps one of the most attractive of their recording career. The formation, coming from the New Mexico,USA is composed of four members: Rob Whitlock to the low one, Sean Griego to the battery, Robert Gutierrez to the guitar and Scott Waters to the microphone, these last two have been with the band since it's foundation. Ultimatum are a thrash metal extremity, above all for how much pertains the vocal parts, since the voice of Waters is very hard and dry. Charming besides the artwork of the album, a very attractive drawing and quite realized representing a monstrous creature (Satan), chained, that is about to fall "within the trench" ("Into The Pit") surrounded by bright, identifiable fires of hell."Into The Pit" contains 11 tracks of extreme thrash metal, among which a cover of "Wrathchild", historical piece of the Iron Maiden. They have dove into what is a resonant massacre in pure thrash style. One for All, the opening track, begins with a swift riff thrash, that carryover in mind the Pantera of "Cowboys From Hell" and does us already to look forward to the successive 37 minutes of the album. The vocals are dry, scratching and aggressive, I mark special and distinctive of the whole album. It is continued with Exonerate, which is more violent and aggressive than the first one, already from the beginning, when a very powerful sustained riff from what is definable a sort of blender batteristico, gets ready to make us transport us from the energetic refrain. They follow Deathwish, open from the low one of Whitlock, Blood covenant, that presents an attractive text and a fantastic solo, and Heart of metal, pieces these that carry the same features of the first tracks without some fall of tone. Interesting Wrathchild, like already cover of the historical piece of the Iron Maiden from the album "Killers", reviewed and rearranged from the band in thrash meta style, obtaining a good result in my opinion and always distant from the level of the original one. The seventh track, Trasgressor, swift and rhythmical, precedes Blink, an old song of the band risalente to the debut album "Symphonic Extremities", reviewed and re-recorded in absolutely superior manner. Blind Faith, that it is not detached from the typical style of the album, is followed from the marvellous title-track, Into the pit for the note, instrumental piece open from a melancholy and enchanting arpeggio that recalls the style of the Metallic first albums, I continue from an as much bell' solo, you are afraid main of the song. It closes the album Game Over, on the same coordinated besides of the disk.
A good album destined to become a heavy metal classic of the band, and, perhaps, one of the best of Christian thrash. Certainty, would be able to is not of satisfaction to all since violent and, useless to deny it, in some monotonous parts, but, at any rate, is to admire like the band have created a so personal sound and distinctive.
POINTS: 75/100
-Enrico Riccobene
WHITEMETAL.it
ULTIMATUM
INTO THE PIT
RETROACTIVE RECORDS
Posted: March 21, 2008
Formed in 1992, Christian thrashers Ultimatum are back with their fourth full-length
album. After hearing Into the Pit, I regret not listening to these guys earlier.
The quartet plays unadulterated thrash with a good sense of composition and
structure, ripping riffs and solid leads/solos. Guitarist Robert Gutierrez does
an excellent job of balancing crunchy thrash riffs and melodic touches. A lot
of the stuff has a simple base, which I appreciate—I often get lost in overly
technical music, but Ultimatum concentrate on creating catchy, solid music.
New drummer Alan Tuma does a great job and throws in a good dose of double kick.
Another plus to Into the Pit is that you can actually hear the bass (Rob Whitlock)
really clearly, something which many albums lack. My only issue is the singing.
I know that Scott Waters is putting in a lot of energy and variety into his
delivery, but I just don’t care for it. When he’s doing a more straight-forward
thrash delivery it’s alright, and he’s actually got a nice clear voice, but
overall there’s something about his tone that rubs me the wrong way. Despite
this, Ultimatum have created an enjoyable, hard-hitting album.
—Clare B.
CAUSTIC
TRUTHS!
Ultimatum-Into the Pit
Released by Retroactive Records
After six years of abscence the US Thrash/Speed Metal veterans from Ultimatum
are back with a very strong album called 'Into the Pit'. The album was released
on February 29th(2008) through Retroactive Records and it contains 11 great
thrash songs in the vein of Exodus, Venegeance Rising and Over{blocked}. What
I really like on 'Into the Pit' are the vocals done by Scott Waters it really
gives a new dimension to this kinda Thrash Metal. The production is okay, a
little bit old school, but I like that. I think 'Into the Pit' is the Thrash
cd a lot of old school Thrash metalheads are been waiting for a long time. As
for the songs on the new album just listen to "Exonerate" and "Blink" they really
kick ass. Also fun to mention there is a cool Iron Maiden cover on this album.
The Iron Maiden fans already know it's the songs "Wrathchild" okay the original
is better but this cover is fun to listen to once more thanxs to the vocals
by Scott.
Score; 7,5
Reviewed by Ronnie K
IntroMental
(Denmark)
Ultimatum - Into the Pit (Release Year - 2007)
If Thrash Metal is your thing, Ultimatum has released a record that you must seek out!
Ultimatum is a Christian thrash metal band that has been around since 1992. Don’t let the Christian thing fool you! This is 100% pure heavy metal.
Into the Pit features the razor sharp vocals of Scott Waters. His style may not be for everyone, but extreme metal fans are likely going to love this. His style is almost Death Metal like, but unlike many singers who fall into the cookie monster trap, you can understand the lyrics. At times, Waters often reminds me of Mike Muir from Suicidal Tendencies. Often Into the Pit is a heavy record, that compares sonically to 80’s thrash metal. Fans of bands like Overkill, Testament and some early Metallica, may find something to sink their teeth into here.
On Into the Pit, the guitars are fierce, the lyrics and vocals are intense, and the drum beats are driving and sometimes insanely fast.
I don’t recall any recent albums of this style being this good. Retroactive Records has found one hell of a band with Ultimatum. My favorite cuts on this disc are Heart of Metal, Into the Pit and Game Over. This isn’t usually the style of music that I listen to on a regular basis, but when I want to hear some new thrash metal, I will be grabbing for Ultimatum’s Into The Pit.
Buy Into the Pit and Play it Loud! For more information on Ultimatum, check out their myspace page.
Rating: 8 Flying V Guitars out of 10
hardrockhideout.wordpress.com
ULTIMATUM
Into The Pit
Retroactive Records
2007
Rating: 9/10
I remember back when I first purchased Metallica's Ride The Lightning my Senior year in High School. No, it wasn't my first Metallica album. And for the record, I got into Metallica a few years before their self-titled "black" album came out. No, the reason why that particular album sticks with me was because, from the moment I popped this one into my cassette player (ask your parents), from the beginning to the end, my body was a-tingle with feelings of goodness. The methods of playing the album, and the format I have it in may have changed over the years, but that feeling is still evident. Very few metal albums, both Christian and non-Christian, manage to give me that wonderful tingly sensation from beginning to end. Add to this very small list 'Into The Pit' by Ultimatum.
It is amazing how these guys can mature and progress in their sound while at the same time retain the same kind of quality of metal they wear like a badge of honor. The album kicks off with "One For All", which grabs you with the opening riff and double-bass, then switches to a groove hook that could catch deep sea bass. From there, it's a veritable smorgasbord of thrash, speed, and flat out heavy METAL. Scott's vocals here have matured, with his trademark snarl and growl the vocal equivalent of a well-worn comfortable pair of jeans. The album's instrumental piece, "Into The Pit" is about as mellow as the album gets, but that's for lack of a better word, there. Think about the Metallica instrumentals "Orion" or "The Call Of Ktulu", and you'll get the idea.
Lyrically, these guys are still full-on Christ-centered. Take a look-see at the lyrics of the first track, "One For All":
Chains of oppression, shattered by death, nailed to a cross.
Life abundant in Christ alone, One for all.
Freedom so sweet it's to die for, a slave no more.
A cup so bitter, filled with blood, One for all."
It was a bit of a wait between albums, but Into The Pit was well worth it. This album shreds, tears, rips, bangs, and various other adverbs to the like. May result in self-educed blunt force trauma. Highly recommended, and needs to be in your metal collection NOW...
-Uncle Necro Uncle
Necro's
Padded Cell
Ultimatum: Into The
Pit
Release am 29.02.2008 durch Music Buy Mail
Spielzeit: 44:45 Minuten
Genre: Thrash/Speed Metal
Bewertung: 7 von 10 Punkten
Es ist für einen sehr religionskritischen Atheisten wie mich nicht gerade einfach, ein Album einer Band zu besprechen, die mit christlichen Texten aufwartet, in denen immer wieder penetrant wiederholt wird, wie Jesus sämtliche Sünden der Menschheit auf sich genommen hat, für uns am Kreuz gestorben ist und dass wir nicht nur auf die böse Wissenschaft hören dürfen und mehr Glauben zeigen müssen. Irgendwie werde ich das Gefühl nicht los, dass fast alle Bands, die sich das Christentum auf ihre Fahnen geschrieben haben, darauf aus sind, zu missionieren und anderen ihren Glauben einzubleuen.
Hinzu kommen in der „Thank you“-Liste auch noch peinliche Grüße an „all the military men and women putting their lives on the line to give us our freedom“. Wie können bitte Leute, die einer Religion angehören, wo es heißt “Du sollst nicht töten” und in der man die andere Wange hinhalten soll, wenn man auf die eine geschlagen wird, sich in irgendeiner Form mit dem Militär solidarisieren? – Will mir nicht in den Kopf, aber das ist wohl die typisch amerikanische, verachtenswert radikale Auffassung von Christentum.
Man muss auf der anderen Seite sagen, dass es natürlich zahlreiche Black-Metal-Bands gibt, die in textlicher Hinsicht nicht gerade zimperlich vorgehen und wenn die einen – teilweise in übelstem Schüler-Englisch und auf einem im Keller anzusiedelnden Niveau – über den zwiefach Gehörnten keifen, warum sollen die anderen dann nicht Songs über den angeblichen Sprössling des Herrn zum Besten geben? Derartige Elemente im Black Metal sind allerdings wohl eher als Rebellion denn als Missionierung anzusehen und im Metal geht es (oder ging es zumindest mal) doch schließlich auch um Rebellion. Von daher wirkt es auf mich schon irgendwie lächerlich, wenn jemand den Versuch startet, elektrisch verstärkte Gitarren und angestaubte Moralvorstellungen unter einen Hut zu bringen...
Trotzdem will ich im weiteren Verlauf dieser Rezension mal großzügig über die Lyrics hinwegsehen (mal abgesehen davon, dass ich da schon ganz andere Bands in christlichen Kreisen erlebt habe, die viel schlimmer und peinlicher waren) und zu dem Thema kommen, um das es bei der Besprechung eines Metal-Albums in erster Linie eigentlich geht: die Musik! – Die ist nämlich gar nicht so übel. Ultimatum spielen sehr Old-Schooligen Thrash, der stark in die Exodus-Richtung geht. Hier gibt es keine nervigen Hardcore-, Metalcore- oder was auch immer für überflüssige Elemente, keine Trend-Anbiederungen, übertriebenen Crunch-Sound und ähnliche Klang-Verbrechen. Hier wird gut gerockt, durch etliche Tempo- und Rhythmuswechsel einigermaßen Abwechslung erzeugt, es ertönen jede Menge filigraner Gitarrensoli (so muss das sein!), sehr häufig auch im Wechselspiel, ganz klassisch im Sinne von Maiden und Priest, obwohl bei Ultimatum im festen Line-up an sich nur ein Gitarrist – Robert Gutierrez – verzeichnet ist; allerdings wurden für zusätzliche Soli, sowie Keyboards, Backing Vocals und teilweise Drums ein paar Gastmusiker ins Studio geholt.
Schon der Opener „One For All“ jedenfalls zeigt, in welche Richtung es geht: Man startet mit einem sehr schnellen Riff, darüber erklingt eine Lead-Melodie, der anschließend einsetzende, schön dreckig herausgerotzte Gesang wird begleitet von einem äußerst Headbang-kompatiblen, typischen Midtempo-Riff und in der Mitte des Stückes wird dann das Tempo wieder angezogen und es kommen die erwähnten Gitarrensoli.
„One For All“ würde ich auch bereits als das beste Stück des Albums bezeichnen, hier sind die Trademarks, welche die CD auszeichnen, gleich in bester Manier zusammengefasst; die Struktur ist nachvollziehbar und sehr gut durchdacht, der Track ist abwechslungsreich und mit äußerst coolen Riffs ausgestattet.
Dieses Niveau kann man zwar nicht konstant halten, doch auch die weiteren Stücke können sich durchaus hören lassen: „Deathwish“ zum Beispiel ist ein hauptsächlich im Midtempo gehaltener, düsterer Stampfer, welcher zwar an sich lediglich auf einem relativ simplen Riff basiert, aber durch die Gitarrensoli und Läufe aufgelockert wird und des weiteren einen guten hymnenartigen Mitsing-Chorus beinhaltet.
Bei „Exonerate“ wiederum geht es in Sachen Geschwindigkeit ordentlich zur Sache, „Blood Covenant“ lebt von den sehr verspielten Gitarren, die teilweise sehr schön harmonisch zusammengeführt wurden und „Heart Of Metal“ ist textlich wohl so was ähnliches wie „Whiplash“ von Metallica: Eine Hymne an den Metal. Natürlich klischeehaft, werden einige sagen, aber bis auf die Zeile „feel the power rush flow from the heavens“ wenigstens frei von religiösem Firlefanz.
Das Maiden-Cover „Wrathchild“ fügt sich ganz gut ins Gesamtbild ein und die weiteren Stücke „Transgressor“, „Blink“, „Blind Faith“ und „Game Over“ schlagen selbstverständlich in die gleiche Kerbe wie die bereits oben erwähnten Songs: Gutes Headbanger-Rübe-abmontier-Futter, das zwar technisch versiert vorgetragen wird und wie erwähnt durch Tempo- und Rhythmuswechsel einigermaßen Abwechslung bietet, dennoch hätte man vielleicht gut daran getan, nicht jeden Song mit schnellem Riffing beginnen zu lassen; so hätte man das ganze Paket sicherlich noch etwas innovativer gestaltet, trotz der angesprochenen Abwechslung erzeugenden Tempo- und Rhythmuswechsel innerhalb der Songs selbst. Zumindest das ruhige, instrumentale „Into The Pit“ (übrigens doch ein ziemlich passender Titel zu unserer Internet-Seite...) lässt einen zwischendurch etwas durchpusten.
Fazit: Dennoch: Auf jeden Fall guter Stoff für Freunde des Old-School-Thrash. Ich finde zwar immer noch, dass christliche Texte und Metal nicht zusammenpassen, aber wem das egal ist, wird sicherlich gut zu der Mucke abgehen können.
-David Nagel
www.the-pit.de/
Label: RETROACTIVE RECORDS
Artist: Ultimatum
Our Price:
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Sales Rank: 187218
Ultimatums Best Effort Yet
Over the past years Ive been re-introduced to many thrash bands I lost track of over the years. This can be attributed to my discovery of [...]. Scott Waters metal collection is like nothing Ive seen before and when I found out he was the vocalist of Ultimatum I was stunned to say the least. I had known about Ultimatum for many years though only a few songs here and there and liked what I heard. Unfortunately, their albums became increasingly difficult to find until now. Retroactive has made their previous albums available and though I didnt like them as much as many other thrash bands I was familiar with, it was still good quality thrash. Now with the release of Into The Pit, Ultimatum went from good thrash band to great thrash band (up there with Touniquet, Deliverance, Testament, Overkill, Vengeance Rising, and more). This is how thrash should be. Thundering double bass drums, shredding guitar solos, and aggressive vocals abound and I dont think any thrash fan wouldnt like this album. In previous reviews the only complaint I ever heard was Scotts vocals. I never understood it, Scotts voice is very unique and fit the music real well (sort of a mix of Bobby Blitz and Steve Souza). This time his vocals should cause those nay sayers to put their foot in their mouth with the power and aggressiveness of his vocals this time around (now he sounds similar to Obituarys John Tardy while maintaining his unique voice).
Michael I. Newcomb
www.radioparadise.com
Ultimatum – Into The Pit
Retroactive Records
29th February 2008
US Christian thrashers Ultimatum are back with their forth but first album for 6 long years and boy do they mean business. It’s your basic, traditional early 90’s thrash assault, chock full of double kicks, ear-splitting riffs and pounding bass. What sets this apart, is the unique vocal delivery from Scott Waters, whilst still maintaining the guttural sound favoured by many, he instils melody and variation. Fans of Megadeth, Overkill and Exodus will no doubt absolutely love this. The title track itself, Into The Pit is something of an anomaly here in that it’s an instrumental, a slow melodic one at that. Mind you, the guitar solo is exquisite! Another talking point is the surprise inclusion of the Iron Maiden cover, Wrathchild, which is a definite highlight, breathing new life into an old classic. Let that hair down, air guitar at the ready, this album will have you headbanging in no time!
Dave Hunter
www.getreadytorock.com
ULTIMATUM
INTO THE PIT
RETROACTIVE RECORDS
!!!!
Formed in 1992, Christian thrashers Ultimatum are back with their fourth full-length album. After hearing Into the Pit, I regret not listening to these guys earlier. The quartet plays unadulterated thrash with a good sense of composition and structure, ripping riffs and solid leads/solos.Guitarist Robert Gutierrez does an excellent job of balancing crunchy thrash riffs and melodic touches. A lot of the stuff has a simple base, which I appreciate—I often get lost in overly technical music, but Ultimatum concentrate on creating catchy, solid music. New drummer Alan Tuma does a great job and throws in a good dose of double kick. Another plus to Into the Pit is that you can actually hear the bass (Rob Whitlock) really clearly, something which many albums lack. My only issue is the singing. I know that Scott Waters is putting in a lot of energy and variety into his delivery, but I just don’t care for it. When he’s doing a more straight-forward thrash delivery it’s alright, and he’s actually got a nice clear voice, but overall there’s something about his tone that rubs me the wrong way. Despite this, Ultimatum have created an enjoyable, hard-hitting album.
—Clare B.
caustictruths.com
Ultimatum - Into the Pit
From the off, this album just grabs you and refuses to let you go until its smacked you down and picked you up over and over again. The boys are on top of their game when it comes to arranging and playing -I just can't find a weak track on this one. The classic thrash riffing of One for All opens this magnum opus, though I think Death Wish is my favourite song -just killer riffing and structure -the opening bass and drum combo is stunning, and I love the double bass drumming that kicks in just when you think the song might be finishing, as it rips back into it. Heart of Metal has reached anthemic proportions, so if you're complaining about the knowingly cheesy lyrics and not waving your fist or bangin' your head, you're clearly not listening to it the right way! (I also like the way it's written on the inside cover along the spine -nice touch!) The title Blood Covenant immediately reminded me of the Deliverance tune of a similar name, so I was stoked to hear some Deliverance influenced leads throughout (great dual guitar harmony lead), and vocally, this is the closest that Scott has ever sounded to Ian Arkley of Seventh Angel. And speaking of the legendary Brit band, the instrumental has a big debt to them (along with Iron Maiden) in the melodic leads. The Maiden cover is awesome, respecting the original yet sounding absolutely Ultimatum in execution.Scott's vocals are the best they've ever been, with his alternating between thrash shouts and death growls giving greater texture, movement and urgency to the songs. New recruit Alan Tuma is tight and rock solid. The cover evokes the 80s big time, and in a band so unashamedly 'old school' in their thrash, is absolutely fitting. The only possible quibble would be that some of these songs appeared on their last EP, but seeing as that was not only stunning but also limited, it's by no means a criticism or weakness! Anybody who digs the classic sounds of Vengeance, Deliverance, Sacrament or Seventh Angel NEEDS to get this.
Sutekh
Firestream
Music Vault
Ultimatum
Into The Pit
Album length: 11 tracks: 44 minutes, 4 seconds
Street Date: October 23, 2007
2.5 / 5 stars
While the majority of Christian metal fans are focusing their attention on recent releases from artists like Once Nothing, MyChildren MyBride and Oh, Sleeper, there lies another dimension where few dare to travel. Okay, maybe that's a bit dramatic, but the underground keeps producing albums from bands not many have heard of. Bands like Ultimatum, a speed/thrash metal band, who have just released their newest album, Into The Pit.
The album opens pretty strong, musically, with "One For All." The musicians in Ultimatum are very skilled at their respective instruments. When the vocals come in, however, you understand just why this is more of an underground product. They're definitely an acquired taste. For a good portion of the album, the lyrics are either growled or barked out, while other times, Scott Waters' voice almost resembles that of James Hetfield of Metallica fame. Metallica-esque music is also found throughout the album as well, at times seeming to also resemble something you would hear on a Pantera record.
Unfortunately for Ultimatum, speed and thrash is a sound that doesn't see much of the light of day. It's usually held back by its gritty sound and low-budget production. On the other hand, the underground metal scene is full of hardcore devoted fans, which is really what the underground bands are mostly looking for. While the overall quality of the album isn't stunning, it's not too bad, and it's very noticeable that their hearts are in it.
- Review date: 3/7/08,
written by Scott Fryberger
JESUS
FREAK HIDEOUT.com
Ultimatum - Into The
Pit
VÖ: 29. Februar 2008
Zeit: 44:45
Label: Retroactive Records
Asche auf mein Haupt, aber ich habe vor dieser Scheibe noch nie von den US-Thrashern Ultimatum gehört und dabei ist Into The Pit die bereits vierte Album-Veröffentlichung in der Bandgeschichte. Diese reicht ihrerseits immerhin bis ins Jahr 1992 zurück. Die Jungs werden gern mit Testament, Exodus, Forbidden oder Deliverance verglichen, aber nach vermehrter Zufuhr von Into The Pit muss ich sagen, dass Ultimatum diesen Vergleichen nicht gewachsen sind.
Sänger Scott Water hat gewisse Ähnlichkeiten zu Steve Souza (Ex-Exodus) oder Boby Ellsworth von Overkill, doch die beiden spielen dann doch noch ein, zwei Ligen höher. Auch die Instrumentalfraktion hängt hinter denen der genannten Bands noch einige Jährchen zurück. Das Riffing ist dabei ganz ok, auch wenn es mich wahrlich nicht vom Hocker reißt, die Soli sind manchmal etwas holprig und noch weiter von der beispielsweise Testament'schen Finesse entfernt. Den melodischen Anteil an der Ultimatum'schen Musik dagegen würde ich als sehr passabel und somit auf gutem Niveau ansiedeln. Zur Schlagzeugarbeit wiederum kann ich weder Negatives noch sonderlich Positives vermelden, hier handelt es sich um soliden Durchschnitt, der weder nach oben noch nach unten ausschlägt. Den Songs an sich fehlt meist der richtige Pepp, Stimmung kommt fast nie auf. Oft dümpelt man einfach nur im Mid-Tempo-Bereich umher und kann außer mit den Melodien kaum Akzente setzen. Besser wird es immer dann, wenn Ulitmatum das Tempo verschärfen, leider kommt das viel zu selten vor.
Ich persönlich kann Into The Pit, das im Übrigen ganz gut produziert ist, nur wenig abgewinnen. Die Songs sind fade, die Riffs zwar ganz ok, aber nicht der Hit und am Gesang kann man sicherlich noch arbeiten. Verglichen mit Deliverance' As Above - So Below ziehen Ultimatum ganz klar den Kürzeren und somit verbleibe ich mit drei mittelmäßigen Punkten.
-Lord Obirah
HEAVYHARDES.de
ULTIMATUM
Into the Pit
Label: Retroactive Records
Datum: 04.03.2008
Autorwertung: 1 v. 10 Punkten
Was für Bands sich heutzutage die Begriffe „Thrash Metal“ und vor allem „old school“ auf die Fahne schreiben, ist mir nachwievor ein Rätsel. Genau so eine Band ist das amerikanische Quintett ULTIMATUM um Frontmann Scott Watters, welches nun mit der Scheibe „Into the Pit“ bereits den 4. Streich ins Rennen wirft. Das erste, was mir bei diesem Wunderwerk auffiel, als ich das Booklet durchblätterte, waren christliche Texte, die den gemeinen Metalhead zum „richtigen“ Glauben bekehren sollten, welche nun doch recht, sagen wir, „ausgefallen“ für Musik härterer Gangart sind. Nach etwas Recherchearbeit wundert diese Grundeinstellung jedoch weniger, da Herr Watters in seinem Zine „No Life ‚til Metal“ über „just horrible lyrics“ von Klassikerbands wie DESTRUCTION, SABBAT oder SODOM, aus dem einfachen Grund des „look how evil we are“ Images, das eben verkörpert wurde, herzieht und andererseits die eigene Band autoglorifiziert und mit ANNIHILATOR, OVERKILL und MEGADETH auf eine Ebene stellt.
Da wir hier aber zum einen über die Musik sprechen wollen, die ULTIMATUM hier abliefern und zum anderen in Sachen Attitüde auch recht tolerant sind, wollen wir mal nicht so sein, drücken beide Augen so fest zu, bis das Blut aus ihnen tropft, wie bei Marienstatuen und konzentrieren uns auf die reine Musik. Um es aber kurz zu machen: „Into the Pit“ ist ein Album, bei dem man ab dem ersten Song denkt: “Kennste einen, kennste alle.“. Langweilige Songstrukturen, ungefähr einen Rhythmus während des ganzen Albums, der in einem wirklich stinklangweiligen Tempo runtergespielt wird und zur Krönung darauf noch Gitarren gelegt, die weder wie die zur Eigenpräsentation herangezogenen OVERKILL, noch wie FORBIDDEN klingen und die Künste des Drummers nochmals in punkto Eintönigkeit übertreffen. Für das verhunzte IRON MAIDEN Cover von „Wrathchild“ sollten die fünf Herren allerdings ans Kreuz genagelt werden. Es gibt einfach ein paar Sachen, bei denen auch meine Toleranz ihre Grenzen hat, und da gehören derart miese Covers von solch einer Götterband dazu.
Abschließend lässt sich sagen, wer für solch eine Band noch Geld aus dem Fenster werfen will, sollte das Geld vielleicht lieber doch der örtlichen Kirche spenden, um den neuen 3er BMW des Pfarrers zu finanzieren. Selbst da ist das Geld besser aufgehoben, als bei dieser (Oblaten-)Platte.
Verfasser: AggressivePerfector
METAL-DISTRICT.DE
LOOSE ENGLISH TRANSLATION
ULTIMATUM
Into the Pit
Label: Retroactive Records
Author Evaluation 1/10The first paragraph complains that Ultimatum are Christians trying to convert them and then trashes Scott Waters for his NoLifeTilMetal.com site. He criticizes the fact that Scott sometimes says that the old 80's bands like Destruction and Sodom would write "look how evil we are" type lyrics. The reviewer is upset that Scott has said negative words about the lyrics of "such classic bands as DESTRUCTION, SABBAT or SODOM."
The second paragraph trashes the music saying the guitar playing is poor and the drumming is monotonous. He also makes comments like, "boring song structures" and "the same rhythm is used during the entire album". He also states in this paragraph that Ultimatum should be crucified for their cover of Iron Maiden "Wrathchild". "For the IRON MAIDEN cover of "Wrathchild" the five gentlemen should be nailed to be sure at the cross."
The last paragraph is translated as follows:
In conclusion it can be said, whoever wants to throw their money out of the window for such a poor album, should instead contribute their money to the local church to help finance the minsters new BMW. Even there the money better used than on this shitty CD.Author: AggressivePerfector
METAL-DISTRICT.DE
Ultimatum
- Into the Pit (CD)
Label: Retroactive Records VÖ: 29.02.2008
Rating: 4/10
Nach dem, was das Label Retroactive Records im Bandinfo da verspricht, haben wir es bei Ultimatums viertem Longplayer "Into the Pit" mit einer gaaanz großen Sache zu tun. Akademisch geschult wie man als Professor nun mal so ist, werde ich erwähntes Papier mal einer genaueren Prüfung unterziehen und einen auch betriebswirtschaftlichen Ansprüchen standhaltenden Ist-Soll-Vergleich anstellen. (Man möge mir hierbei einige grammatikalisch nicht mehr ganz einwandfreie Zusammenführungen der deutschen und englischen Sprache entschuldigen, aber bei Großtaten wie Into the Pit muss der Zweck die Mittel heiligen.) Nun denn, CD in den Player, Bandinfo studiert, und gleich die zweite Zeile lässt mir den Speichel im Mund gerinnen, denn Ultimatum seien "Pure metal fury": Metal ist es tatsächlich, pur und somit ohne Einflüsse aus anderen Musikrichtungen auch, die genannte "fury" möchte ich aber doch anzweifeln, besonders in Anbetracht von Vokalist Scott Waters brustschwachem Gekrächze, das irgendwo zwischen Blaine Cook von The Accüsed (in den wenigen besseren Momenten) und einem geriatriebedürftigem Death Metal-Veteranen aus den frühen 80ern pendelt. Wenn es tatsächlich stimmt, was im Bandinfo zu lesen ist – das Gekreische "exceeds his commendable efforts on previous albums" - dann will ich diese Vorgängeralben, von denen das letzte immerhin 6 Jahre zurück liegt, nie und nimmer, niemals und schon gar nicht geschenkt haben.
Weiter im Info, wo von einem Reifungsprozess die Rede ist: "They definitely have matured over the years" ... in der Tat true, hier besteht kein Zweifel, denn wenn man sich die Bandfotos auf http://www.ultimatum.net/ ansieht, begegenen einem hier fünf wohlgenährte und eigentlich auch sehr reife Herren, die dem Teenageralter schon länger entwachsen scheinen - meine Schätzung liegt bei Mitte dreißig, obwohl es sich auch um fettleibige amerikanische Wohlstandskids mit aufgemalten Nikolausbärten handeln könnte... aber damit würde man dem Bandinfo Lügen unterstellen, und das wäre jetzt nicht die feine englische Art. Die Musik selbst ist weniger "mature", sondern bewegt sich songschreiberisch meist auf dem Niveau einer Schülercombo, deren Reifungsprozess irgendwo zwischen Metallicas Seek and Destroy und Smoke on the Water anzusiedeln ist...
as Promopapier gibt sodann einiges über die musikalischen Wurzeln und Einflüsse Ultimatums preis, nämlich dass sie ihren "idols Exodus, Megadeth, Overkill and Forbidden" nacheifern. No doubt about it, der Wille ist da und soll auch zählen. Aber hunderte andere Bands tun das auch und oftmals sogar um einiges besser, außer Ultimatum orientieren sich absichtlich beim Songwriting an dem, was oben genannte Idole nicht mal mehr als Lückenfüller auf ihren bisher glücklicherweise noch nicht erschienenen Worst-of-Compilations rauskacken würden.
So weit, so schlecht. Ultimatum sollen nämlich auch "tight and perfect working" sein. Wenn hiermit auf die Drumarbeit von Sean Griego angespielt wird, ist das schon irgendwie richtig. Andererseits: Sein unfassbar monotones, beinahe schon drum-machine-verdächtiges Geklopfe zieht einem spätestens nach dem zweiten Song den letzten Nerv und die unmotivierten Doublebass-Bolzereien lassen einen wünschen, dieses Instrument wäre niemals erfunden worden.
Ultimatum seien weiters eine "old school heavy metal machine": Hier darf ein weiteres Mal das Prädikat "old school" als Entschuldigung für unoriginelles Musikantentum, das schon in den 80ern keinen Hund hinterm Ofen hervorgelockt hätte, herhalten.
Wer glaubt, die heillose Übertreibung findet nun ein Ende, der irrt gewaltig, denn Ultimatum sind auch "dangerously heavy"! In der Tat, eine gefährlich schwere Dosis an Schlaftabletten wird dem ahnungslosen Headbanger hier zugemutet, der sich "fast, heavy, bone crunching" Metal erwartet hat, als Höhepunkt dieses akustischen Barbiturats jedoch nur eine die Grenze zum Sakrileg mit Siebenmeilenstiefeln überfliegende Vergewaltigung des Iron Maiden-Klassikers Wrathchild zugemutet bekommt, laut Bandinfo übrigens ein "excellent cover".
Wenn hier zuletzt dann von "fiery blowtorch riffs and scorching solos" die Rede ist, wird endgültig die Grenze zur Realsatire überschritten. Langweiliger, abgelutschter und uninspirierter kann man Gitarre nicht spielen, die Riffs von Robert Gutierrez übertreffen an Originalität nur selten das, was Ultimatums Idole auf ihren Debutalben vor 25 Jahren schon nicht mehr spielten, stellen aber sicher das Maximum dessen dar, was man mit 2 Saiten und 4 Akkorden leisten kann.
Die zudem die Erwartung noch höher schraubenden "high production values" habe ich leider bisher nicht gefunden, Ysido Garcias kraftlose Kellerlochproduktion kann nicht viel gekostet haben. Sollte er dennoch tatsächlich monetäre Kompensation dafür erhalten haben, dann wohl nur um sein Leiden beim täglichen Anhören dieses Geniestreiches an Bösartigkeit ein wenig zu lindern. Ohne Alkohol und Drogen wird er es wohl kaum überstanden haben, und eine Rehabilitation kostet nun mal Geld...
Der Professor, der einen guten Witz immer zu würdigen weiß, verleiht Ultimatum 4 von 10 Comedy-Awards (1 für die Musik, 1 fürs Artwork, 2 fürs Bandinfo).
Review by:
Professor Röar
http://www.darkscene.at
Ultimatum - Into The
Pit
Genre: Thrash Metal
Review vom: 16.03.2008
Redakteur: Edewolf
Veröffentlichung: bereits erschienen
Label: Retroactive Rcords
Es ist schon sagenhaft, mit welchen schon fast an Größenwahn grenzendem Selbstvertrauen manche Bands ihre Infos verfassen. „The Masters of Thrash-Metal are back“ heisst es da, oder „one of Thrash Metal’s most shining moments“. Also mir persönlich waren diese “Legende” bisher völlig unbekannt und nach mehrmaligem Hören der “Pure Metal Fury” war mir dann auch klar warum. Ich höre eben keine christlichen Bands. Aber damit muss ja jeder selbst klarkommen, wir sehen uns am Feuer Jungs.
Eigentlich wird hier so
gut wie alles verhunzt und zweitklassig nachgespielt was die Thrash- und Speed-Metal-Welt
der späten 80’er und frühen 90’er so hergegeben hat. Getreu
dem Motto „lieber gut geklaut als schlecht selbstgemacht“ gibt’s
auf „Into the Pit“ eine druck- und freudlose Aneinanderreihung schon
tausendfach ausgelutschter Melodien. Auf die versprochenen Schneidbrenner-Riffs
wartet man vergebens. Blickt man ins Wörterbuch, wird man feststellen,
dass „Blowtorch“ auch Lötlampe heißt, was den Punkt deutliche
besser trifft.
Ein weiteres Zeichen für dieses Höchstmaß an Einfallslosigkeit
ist dann auch die Tatsche, dass wirklich jedes Riff bis zur Unerträglichkeit
wiederholt und ausgereizt wird. Eingängigkeit erzielt man meines Wissens
durch Melodie und nicht durch gebetsmühlenartige (HA! erwischt) Wiederholungen.
Und wenn die Jungs mit „trockene Produktion“ angestaubt meinen, scheint
dies die einzig korrekte Info gewesen zu sein. Der Gesang klingt dann auch eher
nach Mandelentzündung als nach Thrash-Metal. Eine besondere Frechheit ist
dann auch noch die Coverversion von Iron Maidens „Wrathchild“ und
der an unverfrorene Frechheit grenzende Versuch sich doch tatsächlich selbst
mit Bands wie Exodus, Megadeth und Overkill in einem Atemzug zu nennen. Nur
weil ich ein Trikot im Schrank hab, bin ich noch lange kein Bundesligaspieler.
Bevor ich mich nun noch weiter in Rage schreibe breche ich dann auch hier ab
und muss das ganze erst mal verarbeiten.
Fazit: Wer so auf die Kacke haut, darf sich nicht wundern, wenn sie ihm ins Gesicht spritzt. Ich weiß nicht, ob die Häkelgruppe der örtlichen Kirchgemeinde die Jungs dazu bewogen hat CDs aufzunehmen oder ob sie wirklich selbst glauben, was sie so von sich geben. Mit ihren großspurigen, haltlosen Ankündigungen haben Ultimatum jegliches Wohlwollen bei mir verspielt. In meinen Augen ist das Album wirklich absolut unterirdisch. Finger weg!! Ab in die Grube!
Ultimatum - Into the Pit 2007
A friend kept suggesting this band to me, and even though I typically steer clear of Christian metal (more on why...in a few sentences), I gave this one a chance: one, she normally has a great taste, and two, the album art actually looked decent. Call that superficial, but dammit, before all these fancy websites with samples and such, album art and descriptions were all we had to go on. The musical talent is here, but Ultimatum falls into that same trap that every Christian metal band can't seem to avoid. The music is generic as can be - there is nothing here I haven't heard before across countless metal acts. Sure, there's riffs, solos, hooks, grating vocals, thundering percussion and audible bass, but all that means exactly nothing if there is no creativity. The telltale sign of a band that puts their motivation ahead of musical ability is when the band or fans first need to tell the potential listener what other popular, original bands this band sounds like (I refer you to Ultimatum's Wiki entry for a prime example). Much like organized religion, the only way these bands gain listeners is by taking what other original artists have done much better, and making their version of it.
If purveyors of Christian metal such as Ultimatum truly wish to be taken seriously, they need to scrounge up some creativity and realize that at least some people are on top of the old subliminal technique of altering familiar logos, artwork and music in order to lure in the unsuspecting masses. Meanwhile, a band such as Deathspell Omega is in the midst of creating a spiritually motivated trilogy of albums that are rife with innovation, both lyrically and musically. The difference is that DSO is a band, and Ultimatum is an evangelical commercial.
Rating 1.5/5 stars
-Zeroumus
http://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/ultimatum/into_the_pit/
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