UMUR
"When God Dies" is the 3rd full-length studio album by US, California based crossover thrash metal act Uncle Slam. The album was released through Medusa Records in January 1995. It´s the successor to "Will Work For Food" from 1993 and features one lineup change since the predecessor as drummer Amery AWOL Smith has been replaced by R.J. Herrera (formerly of Suicidal Tendencies).
Stylistically "When God Dies" is slightly different to "Will Work For Food (1993)". It´s still crossover thrash metal, but this time around with an occasional alternative edge (most audible on the opening title track, which features funk elements). Lead vocalist/guitarist Todd Moyer has changed his vocal approach too from a raw shouting vocal style, to a more melodic semi-raw delivery. It´s probably an aquired taste, but personally I prefered his raw vocals on the predecessor. The basis of the music is still relatively simple thrash/heavy metal riffing and hardcore punk influenced rhythms. It´s seldom as hard edged and sharp as on the previous releases though, and overall "When God Dies" is the band´s least heavy release.
The sound production is relatively well sounding, and the musicianship is decent, but ultimately the impression of the album is that it´s a step down and that the new change in direction isn´t working that well for the band. It´s not a bad quality release by any means though, and there are some pretty strong material on the album although highlights are few and far between. A 3 - 3.5 star (65%) rating is warranted.