W.M.D.'s sophomore album, Against All Warnings, is a thrilling return to the world of thrash metal. The band, formed in 2015, has evolved significantly since its debut, with a lineup change and a shift in sound. This transformation has resulted in a powerful and engaging album that pays homage to the old-school thrash metal sound while adding a unique twist. Personally, I think this album is a testament to the band's resilience and their ability to blend classic influences with modern techniques. What makes this particularly fascinating is the way W.M.D. navigates the treacherous channels of thrash, avoiding the pitfalls of unoriginality and unseriousness while delivering a high-energy, captivating listen. In my opinion, Against All Warnings is a prime example of how a band can evolve and still stay true to its roots. One thing that immediately stands out is the band's ability to absorb influences from various thrash legends, such as Overkill, Anthrax, Megadeth, and Exodus, and weave them into a cohesive and powerful sound. The album's production is warm and organic, with a strong bass presence that induces a weeklong case of the meat sweats, as the reviewer humorously puts it. The rhythm section, comprising Jon Power on bass and Ryan Idris on drums, is particularly impressive, with Power's burly low-end and Idris' nimble whipsawing across the kit. Skyler Mills, the band's guitarist and vocalist, delivers barbed hooks and snotty vocals that recall Lich King and Havok. The album also features scorching solos from guests Casey Trask and Kai Sakaguchi, ensuring there's never a dearth of pyrotechnics. However, the reviewer does point out some minor quibbles, such as the order of the tracks and the overall volume of the album. Despite these minor complaints, Against All Warnings bristles with thrashy vitality and is the best thrash album I've heard so far in 2026. The album sets a high bar for the rest of the year and is a must-listen for thrash metal fans. In conclusion, W.M.D.'s Against All Warnings is a powerful and engaging album that showcases the band's evolution and resilience. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of thrash metal and a reminder of the genre's ability to inspire and captivate audiences. From my perspective, this album is a shining example of how a band can stay true to its roots while pushing the boundaries of the genre.
