Deceiver are a quartet of Swedish musicians who bring us a self-titled MCD, which contains 5 songs.

Just forget about In Flames, Dark Tranquillity and Lost Horizon for a minute and think about the old times. I'm talking about the time when Venom and Metallica just started out and crushed the world with their distinctive sounds. Got it? Okay. Now, let's have a look at Deceiver's attempt to revive those golden years.

Yes, I said attempt. That's because, although the band tried really hard, Deceiver really can't compare to Venom or Metallica. Although the riffs are of a decent 'Kill 'em All' technical level and the vocals are a mixture of those of Pungent Stench and Venom's Conrad Lant, there is nothing innovating about it. If I didn't know any better, this would be an 80's band.

Question is, is this what fans want?

Because I'm a fan, I'll try to voice my thoughts.

Well, I did get some mixed feelings while listening to the self-titled debut of Deceiver. The production is really good, no doubt about that and although the band doesn't keep the thrash-speed up for the entire 5 songs, aggression definitely isn't what this record lacks (because, let's be honest, a little variation is nice, sometimes).

What does this MCD lack? Well, this may probably nostalgia speaking, but I'd say it lacks originality. We've all heard it before and although amusing, it doesn't grip the attention that firm as a new album of Metallica in their early years-style would do (I know, it's the same, but hell... would you think differently about that?).

Classic lyrics (Venom-esque), classic riffs, classic vocals, need I say more? If you long for the good old times, this is  your chance. In that case, Deceiver will more than satisfy you.
For everybody else: keep your money in your purse, there's plenty of great new stuff to be found out there. Keep looking.

Line up:
Destormo - vocals
Pete Flesh - guitars
Flingan - drums
Crille - bass

Tracklist:
1. Deceiver
2. Hey Woman
3. Ironsweet
4. Blessed With A Lust For Blood
5. Cold Sweat, Shaking Bones