Album Review: Baptized in Blood

Album Rating: 4.5/5

I’d like to take the time this morning to introduce you to a band I’ve been following for many years, and have just made their first major full-length album. For those of you who don’t know about them already, this is Baptized in Blood. Baptized is comprised of 5 guys from London Ontario who have taken the metal world by storm. Founded in 2004, these boys have independently released an EP and Full-Length debut, Gutterbound. They’ve toured with bands like Shadows Fall, Fear Factory, Threat Signal, and HateBreed to name a few. Their unique brand of thrash metal, mixed with heavy influence from the 80’s, has truly created a unique sound. Baptized recently signed with RoadRunner Records, released a full length Label debut, and is now Co-Managed by Dave Mustaine of Megadeth. Not a bad run for these guys eh?

This album had much anticipation with their loyal fans. Ever since the album came out, I can hardly put it down. It truly encaptures Baptized in Blood’s sound over an extremely well recorded 12 song album. At first listen, I really did not enjoy hearing 4 songs off Gutterbound redone. I’d been listening to those songs in their original format for a rather long time, and just didn’t want to adjust to the changes (Example: in UpShirts DownSkirts redone, the harmonic squeals are lower in the mix, or non existant in some parts). However, after now 3 weeks, I’ve come to adjust and will admit, the redone songs are worth my time too. The most interesting thing about the redone songs, was renaming Lightning Speed to Sinking Ships.

Not only do these songs sound great on record, they sound amazing live! Last time I saw them play, opening for Fear Factory at the Opera House, they played primarily new songs before the release, and wow were they tight! I’ve seen them many times over the past years in Hamilton, and they seriously never disappoint. Every time they get off the stage they leave you craving more! Songs like Game On, and Will of a Demon, definitely were written with the live show in mind with their call and response sections. Lovin’ it.

This is a must-have on your CD Shelf. Hit-up HMV and get your copy now. You can also find it on iTunes with 3 bonus tracks (including a remastered Blue Oyster) or for sure catch them on an upcoming tour and snag a copy at the merch booth. While you’re at it, grab Gutterbound… it’s still one of my favourite albums ever.