Never Known Peace by Doomsday is a relentless reminder that Bay Area thrash still hits hard when played with conviction. The band leans into crossover-era aggression, thick low-end grooves, and breakneck pacing while keeping enough dynamics to avoid a one-dimensional assault. Influences are clear, but the execution is tight, focused, and full of fury, making the album one that rewards repeated listens.

The record opens with Death Is Here, immediately setting the tone. Slow, bell-like tones creep in before the band detonates into sharp, fast thrash riffs. Drums hit deep and rapid, with crisp rolls punctuating the pace, while the bass anchors the song, especially during a stripped-down section that gives it room to shine. Vocals are bassy and venomous with a sharp, angry edge, layered with biting backing vocals. Classic thrash-style solos are woven seamlessly, and a sleek two-step section closes the track with confidence.

The Outlaw keeps the speed high, featuring fast thrash riffs and pounding drums. The riffs feel weighty, and the vocals cut sharper, driving the track forward with aggressive cadence. While the drums occasionally feel slightly rigid, the groove opens up as the song progresses. A deep, groovy ending with heavier drum hits and sharper riffs rounds out the track perfectly.

Eternal Tombs leans into groove with rolling riffs and a bass that thumps hard. Quick, tight guitar solos add flair without overstaying, and the slowed midsection introduces pounding drums and bass, creating a crushing, head-nodding moment. While some passages risk repetition, the locked-in riffs keep the track engaging.

Killing Fields opens with distant drums before the band creeps in, building tension. Vocals take on a nastier, gnarlier tone, adding fresh texture to the record. The drums feel looser, the guitars remain sharp, and a groovy midsection breaks up the pace, ending in a punchy burst of aggression.

One of the album’s highlights, Pain Dweller, opens with a dynamic drum build before tight, groovy riffs enter. The mix is balanced perfectly, with the bass filling out the low end and vocals sitting clearly on top. The chant of “Pain Dweller” paired with backing vocals draws clear parallels to Power Trip’s style, while the dark, ominous back half and double-kick breakdown deliver a powerful, memorable impact.

Extinction’s Hymn serves as a well-placed interlude. Bell tolls, slow drums, and drawn-out riffs create tension and space, allowing a slow burn of heavy drums and hypnotic guitar work. This track acts as a breather while still feeling integral to the album’s flow.

The title track, Never Known Peace, brings full weight. Slow, rolling riffs build into deep drums, bass, and double-kick intensity. The band plays dynamically, pulling back before slamming harder, while vocals remain sharp and commanding. A slow, controlled outro gives the track—and the album—a sense of closure.

Everyday War shifts gears with deep, low riffs and hollow-sounding drums, creating a spacious, groovy feel. Vocals transition from harsh screams to commanding yells, supported by backing vocals. The bass and guitars lock together seamlessly, giving the track a swaggering, distinctive character.

Holy Justice slows the pace with controlled riffs and hard-hitting drums. Vocals are deliberate, matching the song’s tense, crawling groove. Everything feels menacing and precise, though backing vocals feel a bit heavier-handed than on previous tracks.

The album closes with Remnants of Spite, a fast, tight thrash-crossover ripper. Sleek riffs and sharp drumming drive the track forward, highlighting Doomsday’s ability to balance speed with groove. While some patterns echo earlier tracks, the song reinforces the band’s knack for variation in structure and energy. Strong production ties everything together, leaving the album to close on a fast, aggressive note.

Overall, Never Known Peace is a commanding statement from Doomsday. Angry, heavy, and rooted firmly in Bay Area thrash, it blends crossover energy with modern punch. Even when influences are obvious, tight musicianship, raw passion, and strong songwriting ensure the album hits hard every time.