Gack - Fix (1993)

Considering thrash metal was very much on the way out circa 1993 Gack's obscure 'Fix' remains one of my favourite albums not just within the genre, but also as an underrated gem that slipped under the radar of many. intriguingly Gack featured members of Laaz Rockit, and Defiance - both noteworthy thrash acts who released a batch of albums respectively. Even so, this opus, and it's their only one, is certainly more groove-based and melodic in its vocals even hinting at a grunge influence, but it's a cracking debut that really should have stirred a few brains. Whether it emerged at the wrong times is anybody's guess but when one considers the amount of bands between 1990 and 1993 who were trying something different, it's no real surprise that Gack got swept away with countless other interesting bands as grunge took over.

'Fix' is a fluid album that boasts meaty vocals, heavy riffs and a sturdy drum sound but above all it boasts some superb tunes, especially in opener 'Pure', 'Break the Water', 'Liquid Palace' and 'Show me Why' and it's one of the only albums I've heard to successfully merge thrash metal and grunge. Maybe the fact it never spawned a hit meant this was destined for cult status but it's amazing to think that so many nu-metal bands were attempting this type of cool vibe and yet never come close to the fluent nature of this beast. This smokes from the off, oozing from every crevice but just not enough people cared. Not overtly removed from Laaz Rockit, but Michael Coons gives the vocal performance of his life here. One of the only good things to emerge after the dissipation of the thrash scene, and one of the only cool albums to emerge in that vomit-inducing period. Fans of C.O.C. circa 'Blind' may also find this groove machine to their liking.
8/10