RAWFOIL – Evolution In Action

Italy’s Rawfoil shares most of their Thrash Metal DNA with Exodus with a dashes of Mathcore complexity and Melodic Metal.  While unable to match the melodic hooks, vocal delivery and high speed precision of Exodus, the band doesn’t lack for musicianship, effort or inspired song construction. Unfortunately what could’ve been a great album is hampered by an amateurish production coupled with vocals that can be difficult to decipher.

The title track opener ricochets from idea to idea at breakneck speed leaving little time for a listener to engage. It leads with a short and plodding guitar and drum intro, then segues into a Metalcore riff before sparring with traditional Thrash and Speed Metal riffs.  The up tempo sound is noticeably thin. The drums lack punch.  Snare and cymbal are pronounced while the double bass is subdued.  There are two bass guitar solos exposing its weak as kitten tone and shamefully underpowered representation in the mix.  During the second solo the bass level is crudely increased to maintain the song’s energy.  The guitars deliver a heavy buzz saw sound when lingering on notes but during high speed runs the lack of a solid rhythm section is exacerbated. Vocals are featured prominently but are delivered with such a heavy cotton-mouthed rasp only occasional words are discernible.  Laying aside disappointment about what could’ve been, there isn’t a bad song on the album. Highlights include the aforementioned “Evolution In Action” and “Circle Of Hate”.  The latter song being the best on the album and the most likely to cause a circle pit to break out.

Evolution In Action is a challenging album that requires multiple listens to appreciate the interplay of Melodic, Mathcore and Thrash Metal elements.  Recommended for Thrash Metal fans who have the patience to get beyond the issues conspiring to limit its appeal.

Tracklist

1. Evolution In Action
2. Josey Wales
3. Broken Black Stone
4. Fail
5. Demons Inside
6. Reflect The Death
7. Circle Of Hate
8. Wrath Of War

Lineup

Francesco Ruvolo – vocals
Lorenzo Riboldi – bass, backing vocals
Giacomo Cappellin – guitar, backing vocals
Ruben Crispino – guitar
Marco Benedetti – drums