The EP might be called Endless Torment, but what I can tell you is that this is anything but torment—it's an absolute blast. In just 20 minutes, Dead Heat takes you on a lightning-fast ride through the essence of 80s thrash metal, while injecting some modern energy and creativity into the mix. These guys came in with a clear mission: to entertain and deliver, and they certainly succeed.
Despite the short runtime, this EP wastes no time getting straight to the point. Every song is packed with high energy, excellent pacing, and a variety of riffs and arrangements that keep things fresh and exciting. The tracks are all around four minutes long, but they fly by in a heartbeat thanks to their infectious energy and tight songwriting. From ripping guitar solos to hard-hitting riffs, intricate drum fills to catchy mosh parts, Dead Heat has everything you could want in a thrash record, and then some.
The guitars are undoubtedly the highlight here—blazing solos, tight riffing, and even some well-placed acoustic guitar sections that add an interesting layer to the sound. The drums are fast, aggressive, and packed with playful fills and rolls, though they can be a bit loose at times. While they occasionally verge on sloppy, the sheer creativity and energy behind the drumming more than make up for it. The percussion definitely has character, and it adds to the chaotic, fast-paced vibe of the EP.
The vocals are an interesting element, too. They’re a bit buried in the mix, which might make them harder to pick out at times, but it doesn't dampen the intensity at all. The vocalist’s high range actually works well in this context, adding a bit of grit and urgency to the tracks, even if the mix could have given them a little more clarity. You can still feel the passion in every scream and shout.
The only real flaw I can find with Endless Torment is that a few of the transitions between sections, like in the opener "Endless Torment," can feel a little rough. Some of the shifts in tempo or rhythm sound like they could have been tightened up a bit. But considering how quickly the songs progress, it’s a minor gripe in an otherwise electrifying release.
In the end, Dead Heat delivers an EP that’s thrilling, fun, and packed with enough thrash goodness to satisfy fans of old-school metal and modern sounds alike. It's a relentless, high-octane ride that will leave you wanting more.
RATING: 9/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Endless Torment
Eyes Of The Real
Tears Of The Wolf