Review by Tomek on December 20, 2007.

Demolisher impressed me with the quality of their musicianship from the very first time I’ve listened to their “Enter the Suffering” EP. They are a very young band (formed only 2 years ago), but their take on Death Metal will most definitely carry those boys very far.

“Enter the Suffering” contains only 3 songs, but there is so much going on, that every time I’ve listened to it, I was finding something new. I know it sounds like something you’ve read hundreds of times before, but, believe me, this is the truth. I’ve listened to that CD maybe 30 times so far, and I just keep coming back. Why? Well, let me put it this way: Plenty of crushing mid-paced moments that are so very inviting for some serious headbanging. Brutal guitar work with some groove and hooks going from slow to galloping riffs, plowing double bass kicks and some gut-wrenching growls and screams that gave me goose bumps. Very tight from beginning to the end, with solid song structures and ass kicking energy.

Most of you will probably ask: how can you put so much into only 3 songs? Well, it seems like Demolisher had no problem with such. I’m simply loving it and you probably will too. Check those guys out. Meanwhile, I’m gonna press Play again.

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 8
Originality: 8
Production: 8
Overall: 8

Rating: 8 out of 10

Review by Adam M on December 25, 2018.

What we have here is a nice combination of power metal and thrash, two genres that aren’t combined often. The outcome is a sound very similar to Demons and Wizards, but fret not, this band does enough to separate itself. The thrash component of the band gives the album the type of impact that most power metal albums are lacking. I still think the power metal component overtakes everything and makes for a very sweet sounding listen.

This album is simply unique because not many bands have tried to combine these two genres in the same way. The songs have a charisma that is welcoming and makes it less cheesy than the typical power metal release. The riffs are very strong and powerful and always make for a gripping listen. If there is a flaw to the band, it’s that they are occupying the same territory as Demons and Wizards and thus have a lot to live up to. Despite sounding similar to that band, they are able to elevate their sound. Also, the songs begin to sound the same, even with the added acoustic sections and other portions to vary things up. This is still one of the better albums of the year and cements its place nicely in a very fresh and uncharted genre. The brilliant idea of combining power metal with thrash comes to full fruition.

These are songs that are also full of bravado and have an epic nature to them. It all adds up to a very solid power/thrash album that has a slight focus on the power side of things. The Extraterrestrial Compendium is a very welcome addition to this year’s crop of music and makes for a galloping and fun listen. Fans of both power and thrash metal should find something to like here as will fans of Demons and Wizards.

Rating: 7.8 out of 10