ABATTOIR — The Only Safe Place (review)

ABATTOIR — The Only Safe Place album cover Album · 1986 · Speed Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
UMUR
"The Only Safe Place" is the 2nd full-length studio album by US, California based heavy/speed metal act Abattoir. The album was released through Combat Records in August 1986. Abattoir was founded in 1982 and split-up in 1987, but during that relatively short time period, they managed to release a couple of demos, a single and two full-length studio albums. Since the release of "Vicious Attack (1985)", there have been quite a few lineup changes in the band. Lead vocalist Steve Gaines has been replaced by Mike Towers, drummer Robert 'Danger' Wayne has been replaced by Danny Anaya and rhythm guitarist Juan Garcia has been replaced by Danny Oliverio. As a result only lead guitarist Mark Caro and bassist Mel Sanchez are left from the lineup who recorded "Vicious Attack (1985)".

The many lineup changes have had quite the effect on how the music sounds. While "Vicious Attack (1985)" was an aggressive and raw yet still melodic heavy/speed metal album, "The Only Safe Place" is slightly softer and dips it´s toes in power metal. The change on the lead vocalist spot has a lot to do about it, but the instrumental part of the music is also more melodic and less raw than on the debut. This is still relatively powerful music though, with anthemic memorable choruses, a pounding rhythm section and loaded with blistering solo work. It´s a more varied and dynamic album than the debut too, but to be honest I miss the raw aggression of "Vicious Attack (1985)".

The musicianship is strong and the album is packed in a powerful sounding production, so those parts of the album are top notch. Overall "The Only Safe Place" is a quality release and even though my preferences are for the debut album, I´m sure fans of more melodic power/speed metal will find this one a great listen. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.
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