Is “Crimes” about politics or self-doubt? The “Dark Enemy” is probably drug addiction, but it could also be depression. “Back In The Real World” could be about hopeless dreamers the world over, or it could be about the music industry. They are oblique enough for the listener to interpret their own way, but at the same time hint in the direction of where the song is actually coming from. The lyrics throughout are excellent, not counting “No Compromise”. Just when it seems they have hit a comfortable groove, down goes the accelerator, and Xentrix are thrashing with the best of them. Even on a first listen, the refrain “What you want ain't always good for you/It's just the way the balance swings for you/Balance swings for you” is thought provoking and compelling, and the simple, irresistible melody makes it stick.Īnd funnily enough, the band’s keen sense of melody and song structure lulls the listener into a false sense of security. Xentrix knew the value of a powerful chorus too. It bursts straight in with a powerful riff, which becomes the musical theme for the rest of the song. “Balance of Power” has one of those great thrash intros which bands don’t seem to manage these days. “No Compromise” makes up for its limp lyrics by being a bit of a headbanger. Even so, this always seemed just a bit childish. The song is aimed at young metalheads who often copped abuse in the late 80s for their music and dress, because it was a far less tolerant time. The lines “Don't think what you parents might say/If it's too noisy, fast and loud/Just fuck 'em all, and do it anyway/Stand up and be proud” have always grated. While the sentiment is noble, it’s just a bit clunky. It’s one of those “have pride in yourself, don’t be ashamed of what you are” type songs. The band’s socially aware lyrics were mostly intelligent and thoughtful, first track “No Compromise” being the exception. None of this is to say “Shattered Existence” isn’t still hard edged thrash. The riffs weren’t as chunky, but then again, who’s riffs are? And vocalist Chris Astley was more tuneful and less aggressive than Hetfield.
Xentrix weren’t as heavy as Metallica, playing a far more melodic, less progressive style of thrash. Yes, the Explorer guitar has featured throughout the band’s history, and both bands played thrash metal, but the similarities end there.
It was a bit of a shallow and clueless comparison though. Well, who wouldn’t want to be Metallica?! Xentrix were often called Metallica wannabes.
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