THE GOOD!

Ultimatum "Puppet Of Destruction"
Pure power! This Australian (American on an Australian label) band demonstrates its ability to kick in your face! Mixing the finer elements of Accept, Metal Church, and Meliah Rage, this is one heavy mutha. UDO-like vocals; Outstanding axework; Pure metal attitude! I do believe that this is the band's second release. Anywho, if you like your metal served blistering hot with screaming vocals & razor-fine axework, you'll eat this up! Good job, Mates! Highly, highly, highly recommended!!! Restless & Wild Imports (Restless & Wild Imports)

Puppet of Destuction, Rowe Productions
USA-Import! Thrash Metal vom allerfeinsten wird hier geboten. Die Jungs > sind > schon länger dabei und das merkt man ihnen an, denn die Songs knallen, > bleiben im Ohr hängen und man verspürt das Verlangen nach mehr... > Solltest > Du Anhänger der Bay Area sein und Bands wie Exodus oder Evildead mögen, > dann solltest Du ULTIMATUM ganz oben auf Deinem Einkaufszettel > vermerken, denn genauso hören sich die sympatischen Amerikaner an! > Zuschlagen, let the puppet of destruction rule the world...

TRANSLATED USA-Import! Trash Metal at its very best is offered here. These guys are no newcomers and this you will notice, because the songs really bang, will remain in your ears and make you feel the desire for more....If you are a supporter of Bay Area Thrash and like bands like Exodus and Evildead, then you should note Ultimatum at top of your order, because these likeable Americans sound just as good! Knock down and let the puppet of destruction rule the world.....
Metal Merchant, Germany

PUPPET OF DESTRUCTION by ULTIMATUM (Rowe Productions)
Hailing from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Ultimatum have that sleazy metal sound that has made bands lie AC/DC and Accept very, very famous. Scott Waters growls the vocals with fiendish glee while Steve Trujillo handles the lead guitar duties like a total pro. The rhythm section is first rate, consisting of Sean Greigo on drums and Robert Gutierrez on rhythm guitar. They have a mighty sound and even mightier message -- you see, this is a Christian metal band! And whatever your beliefs, there is no denying the fact that these guys totally rock! "Gutterbox" is an awesome track whose lyrics delve into all the trash curently on television and how our society has become so numb to all the violence shown as exhibition. "Never" talks about bands who conform to trends just to make a buck. The title track takes the theme one step further, with the liner notes for the song saying, "It's sad that the darker side of metal gets most of the attention" -- going on to state that these groups are "pawns in an evil game." It is a bit of a shock to hear other religious themes such as forgiveness and the coming of Christ delivered in such a brutal, hard rockin' fashion. Brought to you by Steve Rowe (the main man behind Mortification), Ultimatum show that Christian metal can be of the take-no-prisoners style, which preaching their beliefs to a world gone mad with millennium fever. With Satan getting all of the press and attention these days, here's wishing the guys of Ultimatum the best of luck. Oh, and follow the lyric sheet for maximum impact!
-THE HIGHWIRE DAZE HEAVY METAL PAGE AND ALBUM REVIEWS

Ultimatum-Puppets of Destruction 1998
Here is another really good band. Ultimatum are surely fans of 80's thrash and speed metal and it is written all over their music. Complex time changes and medium to fast pace thrash put to great lyrical content make this a really good album. Vocalist Scott Waters sounds exactly like Steve Sousa of "Exodus", actually it is so close you have to wonder, i actually looked. Anyhow, the band is tight, every song is very well crafted and a great listen. The album does demand your attention and is very violent musically much like Forbidden but with alittle more muscle like Overkill and Exodus (in their prime). I recommend it to all who liked the 80's thrash as it looks great next to my Forbidden albums (this is a big honor) in the cd rack and sounds great about once every other day when I play it. Rating: 5 out of 5 -Justin Harvey, Heavy Metal Rules

Ultimatum-Puppet of Destruction
rating: 9 out of 10
So did you happen to listen to the last Ultimatum CD? A lot of people didn't care for that album. If your one of those people, really consider giving the band another try. I personally gave "Symphonic Extremities" a rating of 8 (out of 10), I felt they showed a lot of power and thrashed liked the best of them. Sure there were a couple of tracks that needed polishing but overall I felt it was a very enjoyable CD. Enter the "Puppet of Destruction," and enters with it a whole new level of Ultimatum. This band got T-I-G-H-T! This album thrusts me back into the Helloween/Overkill days, and I'm simply loving listening to it. The song that simply grabs me the most is "Mortal Stomp," track 2! This song simply shreads from the opening licks to the ending riot vocals screaming STOMP! STOMP! STOMP! "Gutterbox" is a really cool song as well, giving opportunity for Scott Waters to change his vocal styles here and there with the shrill screams to intro each verse. Sean Griego pounds out some killer double bass parts in this song, thundering through the guitar solos. The song lyrically is about how we have become desensitized by television, and the effects is has had on society. From track 1 to track 10 Ultimatum treats us to some serious thrash that the metal world has been missing for a long time. Crunching heavy guitars, and clean throaty vocals. Anyone into this type of music should give this a shot, it's distributed by Diamante, so you can get it in just about any bookshop.
-D. Lister,. Dead the E-Zine, June 1999

Ultimatum, Puppet of Destruction (Rowe Productions)
Christian thrash in the vein of Overkill, Exodus, and Metal Church. It's not very original, but it is better than I expected. Yes, the lyrics are boldly of the Christian fare. In fact there are even Bible verses and notes listed at the end of each song in the cover foldout. The Christian lyrics would not have gone over as well in this thrash format had they not had the forsite to combine modern social topics with biblical themes. Otherwise I think the Bible lends itself mor to epic an/or traditional metal bands such as Lordian Guard, Helloween, Iron Maiden, and Stryper. There isn't any absolutely kick ass songs on here, but he songs do hold there own, if not better than average thrash. Even secular metalheads can get off on this release. Rating 7 out of 10.

Ultimatum, "NEVER" pre-release demo
"Wow!!! ...what a difference a member change can make to a band! Sean, their new drummer has lifted this band, we think, to new heights. With the addition of his tight drumming, it's Like Ultimatum now have more guts in their song writing (not like they're wimpy anyway!). Everything seems to be more precise from the lead playing to vocal delivery. Bay Area thrash is still alive and kicking, looking forward to their new album indeed!"
- Peter & Si, Wreathe of Thorns, Issue #6, Feb. 98

ULTIMATUM, Puppet of Destruction, Rowe Productions
"Okay, this is the album that's caused a little controversy because of 'that review'. Is there any substance behind such criticism?...I certainly don't think so! Onto this review - 'Symphonic Extremities' was an album that won fans over, simply because of ULTIMATUM's straight up no compromise metal approach and 'Puppet Of Destruction' should do the same. Behind his kit, Sean Griego has a more aggressive approach then his predecessor and I believe this in particular has allowed the music to advance more technically. The guitars are more crunchin' and the leads more blazin', topped off with Scott Waters assertive angry vocal approach. (The EXODUS/MEGADETH comparison is a little old now). Some interesting topics are penned also by Scott, including bands losing their integrity as in the song 'Never', what truth is, 'Conform to Reality' and the crux of the Christian faith being the crucifixion and resurrection, 'Scorn'. ULTIMATUM have crafted their tunes well, showing us that metal of yesteryear, but by no means outdated, still kicks and what would be appropriate next time would be a live recording capturing this band in all its metal splendor."
- Pete. McArdle, Wreathe of Thorns, Issue #8, Feb./Mar. 99

ULTIMATUM, Puppet of Destruction (Rowe)
"When I listen to ULTIMATUM's second full length recording "Puppet of Destruction," I'm thinking, this is heavy metal in its purest form, well maybe there are a few trace elements of hardcore and thrash but don't even expert metallurgists design alloys for a specific job? Like adding compounds to a gold ring to give it strength and lastability. Well I think Ultimatum understands this principle. In '95 Ultimatum released Symphonic Extremities, a crunchy power metal album with vocals similar to the secular band EXODUS. This time around we have more of the same but with better production. Singer Scott Waters seems to have a bit more control. New drummer Sean Griego adds a new dimension with his double bass assault that never lets up. The guitars are as competent and crunchy sounding as ever if not a bit cleaner sounding than on Symphonic; the bass guitar could have been louder though. Lyrically every song is Biblically based and cover topics such as Christ's suffering, truth/reality and watching too much TV. Its nice to see a band put explanations to the lyrics they write in the inserts, by reading them I can really see the bands' sincerity in that they admit struggling with the same issues they sing (preach) about. As a whole "Puppet of Destruction" is more consistent than "Symphonic" in both production and music structure, one thing I do miss though is the diversity of Ultimatum's previous material, none of the songs on "Puppet of Destruction" reach the speed of the speediest tunes on "Symphonic". Something also lacking are the slow "atmospheric interludes" also found on the previous album. Overall P.O.D. [Puppet of Destruction] is a great second release from a band that is loyal to its fans by delivering quality metal and refusing to ‘Sellout’ to the current trends."
-Jeff Moore, Screams of Abel, Issue #19

ULTIMATUM- Puppet of Destruction - "True classic thrash is back! I love this disc!!! Killer guitars, bone crushing riffs, vocals that makes you think that the guy from EXODUS got saved and joined a Christian band, and flawless production all make this a CD worth leaving on repeat for hours! It is one of those you need to have in your car if you don't mind getting a speeding ticket! Much better production than their indie release "Symphonic Extremities." In order to be honest I must say that vocalist Scott Waters shrill shredder voice may get on a persons nerves at times (ie: when he does his Blitz from OVERKILL impersonation on songs like "Gutterbox"), but his sheer kick butt quality and fevered passion on songs like "Never," "Mortal Stomp" and "Repentance" outweigh any flaws this disc may have."
-Norm Doll, Brutal Reality, Summer 98

ULTIMATUM-Puppet of Destruction, Rowe Productions
"This is a band that needs no introduction. A band that stands alone in a world of posers and wanna-bees. ULTIMATUM is a band that has stood the test of time, but not without trials and tests. Now, in 1998, Scott Waters and his band mates are once again beating the doors of metal down with their second release "Puppet of Destruction." The song "Never" begins the lineup, tormenting every riff and greeting the listener with a bold message of selling out. This is my favorite song, lyrically. Sure to be a classic indeed is "Mortal Stomp." This song provides a structure for the entire album. "Mortal Stomp" is a good one to hear live. By the third and fourth song, the band sets us in cruise control manning the wheel, so to speak, with a groove style setting that reminds me of "Symphonic Extremities." The band continues to step over the boundaries making the album deserve ten songs, finally rounding off the set and giving us all what we want, REAL METAL! A solid production and decent artwork make "Puppet of Destruction" a nice follow-up to "Symphonic." This band has proven themselves to the underground and to Rowe Productions. Ultimatum is striving for excellence in every way. Ministry, professionalism, and stability are the goals set for Ultimatum, and I think they have accomplished them all."
-Eli Sanders, Parable, Issue 8, Winter 1998

ULTIMATUM -Puppet Of Destruction, Rowe Productions/Diamante
Proudly flying a flag of heavy metal that is rarely seen in Christian music, Ultimatum has definitely bucked the fads and trends with their offering of tried and true metal. This is their second full-length CD, and in my opinion their best.
What we have here is an Ultimatum that is still metal, yet has diversified itself a bit. Ever heard of retro thrash? This is the locomotive that Ultimatum now rides, and some of this is downright pummeling, especially the title track and "Never". The band also offers us the track "World Of Sin" off their "Symphonic Extremities" CD, which baffles the mind since this is the worst song they ever wrote. Retire this stinker! Despite this, the pounding riffs combined with the ACCEPT influence is enjoyable to these older ears. Younger listeners may struggle with "Puppet Of Destruction" due to the fact that it is not a rip-off of newer bands, but an ear should be turned in this direction. The lyrical content is direct and confrontational and deals with poseurism, God's power, television, and the saving grace of Jesus. Not exactly new topics for sure, but decently expressed none the less.
The flag of true metal still flies in Ultimatum's hearts, and more power to them for that. As for this album, those that understand where this kind of music evolved, this is a worthwhile investment.
-Mark Hodges, !LOUD!, December 1998

Ultimatum - Puppet of Destruction ( Rowe Productions ) - "Ultimatum are one of a sparse few true metal bands in existence today that have inherited the legacy of the 80s Christian Metal scene which counted chiefest amongst its ranks: BARREN CROSS, BLOODGOOD, DELIVERANCE and yes - even early STRYPER to name a few.
     Ultimatum place much importance on spreading the Gospel and to a lesser degree remaining a true metal band. Ultimatum crank out ten songs that fail to leave a lasting impression on me. I once considered them to be one of the more promising hopes for metal in the States after hearing songs like "Symphonic Extremities" ( a song which in my opinion they've never been able to equal let alone top ) but every time I listen to this album it seems like even the improvements in musicianship aren't enough to lift this album out of the woodwork. The problem lies in the songwriting which fails to get my blood pumping as the songs seem to plod along in an uninspired manner which leaves Scott Waters no choice but to follow in like fashion.
     The production is a bit buried in the mix, most notable on the rhythm guitar and the drums. However, one could never accuse Ultimatum of being sellouts. They are as unashamed of playing heavy metal as they are of telling the world about their love for Jesus. Hopefully next time around they'll be armed with better songs to make them a serious contender as they wield their 2 edged sword." (3 out of 6)
-Rick Pizzo, Metal Crusade #7, Summer 98

ULTIMATUM - Puppets of Destruction
ROWE PRODUCTIONS RPD6047
"Typical for this band is the singer's very special vocals. I have a really hard time to appreciate it. I don't know know how to describe it but I have heard that he reminds of the singer in EXODUS.
The music is solid Heavy Metal / Thrash. First tune "Never" is really good and crunchy. If all the tunes were this good this would be an awesome album. Sorry to say, they are not. Some of the tunes are good but most of them get repetitive and boring. That's too bad when the lyrics are this good and Christ - centered. If the band continue to write tunes like "Never", varies the music more and the singer tries to sing in another way (sorry Scott but I have to be honest) they can go to the top, but for now they fall short.
References: It's hard to compare this band to others but if you can appreciate his vocals and don't have anything against repetitive tunes you might like this, I don't."
-Johannes C. Jonsson, The Metal For Jesus Page

THE UGLY!

ULTIMATUM-Puppet Of Destruction, Rowe Productions
Never judge a book by its cover." What a cliche! Well, this album's packaging is graphically pleasing to the eye, but. . . The meaning behind that cliche insinuates that the music inside must not be as good. But let's concentrate on the outside first. While it is pleasing to the eye, the packaging emits a ripoff warning signal. First of all, the front cover depicting a jester skeleton/puppet is reminiscent of BRUCE DICKENSON's latest cd. Second thing of notice are the eerie similarities of the back cover to that of "Plastic Planet" by g/z/r (Geezer), right down to the way the track numbers are arranged and laid out. Next, we have the band members' x-rays inside the leaflet, not much unlike the cover of "Smash" by OFFSPRING. Are all of these unoriginal trappings merely coincidence? I doubt it.
     "But, hey! Is there music on this disc?" Oh, yeah. The vocals kind of make you cringe, like someone running their fingers down a chalkboard. The production is nice and clean and everything is mixed well, and the song structures are decent while not necessarily unique. The music itself is in the IRON MAIDEN/SACRED WARRIOR/80's metal vein. The beginning guitar riff on "Crosshope" sounds an awful lot like MORTIFICATION's "Dark Illusions," the last song on their "Blood World" CD. Opener "Never" addresses selling out (hmm...have you heard any other artists touching on this subject? Me too!) It also includes a classic metal guitar solo (hmm...have you ever heard any other solos like this? Me. too!~)
The snare sound throughout is rather tinny, but the bass drums "pump up the jams." A great example of this snare sound can be heard at the end of album closer "Charged/Power," with its played-in-a-tin-box racket. The bass is distinct in the mix, and has a decent low-end. The guitars are crunchy-stuff. So, there are a few positives in an otherwise bleak review.
The moral of the story is that, if I had to, I would purchase the band's first record, "Symphonic Extremities," instead of this one. It just doesn't quite hold up to the standards set by today's metal monsters: PANTERA, TOURNIQUET, or METALLICA. For a taste of what I mean, check out issue 71's HM sampler cd.
-Chad Olsen, HM Magazine, Issue #73, August 98.