Of all the legendary thrash metal bands that have survived, dignity intact, since their original heyday, Testament have weathered the 21st century with the most vigour and verve. Each of the three albums that they’ve released since roaring back into action with The Formation Of Damnation in 2008 have reinforced the eminently sensible view that the best bands improve with age.
Para Bellum makes the same point, but with more power and creativity than ever before. While younger generations fanny around with cynical pop compromises, Testament are here to break necks. But the Bay Area beasts’ 14th album of fresh material is far from a revisionist ticking-off for the new breed.
