V
Havok · 2020
45 min · 11 tracks · thrash metal
A relentless barrage of intricate riffs and socially charged lyrics embody the raw energy of modern thrash metal.
Top tracks — play these first
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Post‐Truth Era — This track sets the tone for the album with its aggressive instrumentation and direct critique of misinformation in modern society. Its driving rhythm and vivid lyrics encapsulate Havok's signature style of merging technical prowess with thought-provoking commentary.
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Betrayed by Technology — Combining rapid-fire riffs with a clear narrative about technological dependence, this song effectively highlights the band's ability to fuse personal angst with broader societal critiques. The energetic pace reinforces the urgency of its message.
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Merchants of Death — The closing track delivers an intense culmination of musical aggression while tackling themes of war and exploitation. Its complex structure showcases the band’s musicianship and serves as a powerful statement on the consequences of global conflict.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
V showcases strong compositions and refined production, solidifying Havok's place in modern thrash metal.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast tempo, maintaining intensity through the first five songs before introducing a slower, more complex arrangement in 'Dab Tsog'.
- Each song features intricate guitar riffs and rapid drumming, with lyrics that tackle contemporary social issues, creating a thematic thread throughout.
- The production quality is polished, allowing for clarity in the instrumentation and vocal delivery, which enhances the overall impact of the lyrical content.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with intensity
- dynamic journey with climaxes
- socio-political themes to ponder
- short bursts of aggression
- engaging in-order listening experience
Maybe skip if you
- prefer light-hearted, upbeat sounds
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2020, V marks Havok's fifth studio album and signifies their continued evolution within the thrash metal scene. Following their 2017 release, Conformicide, this album showcases a refined production quality and thematic depth that reflects the band's growing experience and confidence.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Municipal Waste· Lich King· Toxic Holocaust
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Post‐Truth Era 3:53
- 2 Fear Campaign 3:57
- 3 Betrayed by Technology 3:44
- 4 Ritual of the Mind 4:10
- 5 Interface With the Infinite 4:02
- 6 Dab Tsog 1:15
- 7 Phantom Force 2:59
- 8 Cosmetic Surgery 4:24
- 9 Panpsychism 6:29
- 10 Merchants of Death 2:45
- 11 Don’t Do It 8:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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