Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A

Exodus is one of the most influential thrash bands ever, but they haven't been one of the most prolific. They've been around since 1980 (with a few breaks over the years) and have released eight full-length studio albums. But they've made every album count. 1985's Bonded By Blood is one of the best thrash albums ever, and their last release, 2005's Shovel Headed Kill Machine was outstanding, and was named the number three CD of the year by this site.

The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A is the latest Exodus release, and it's another good one. Thrash metal is all about the guitars, and Exodus has two excellent ones in founding member Gary Holt and Lee Altus. Their distinctive riffs and complex solos are the backbone of the band. This album also features the return of original drummer Tom Hunting.

The songs are thundering and powerful, and also very memorable. This is the second Exodus album for vocalist Rob Dukes, who jumped in and fit in perfectly on the last album. He is even more comfortable here and displays powerful, intense and emotional vocals. There are never any huge surprises on an Exodus album, but you know you are going to get first class thrash music. That's exactly what The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A is, and they are putting the new generation of thrash bands on notice that the old school is still going strong.