Venom, the iconic heavy metal band, is back with a new album, Into Oblivion, set to drop on May 1 via Noise/BMG. This highly anticipated release marks a significant moment for the band, as it's their first new recording since 2018's Storm The Gates LP. The album features the long-standing lineup of Conrad "Cronos" Lant on bass/vocals, Rage (a.k.a. Stuart Dixon) on guitar, and Danté (a.k.a. Danny Needham) on drums, and it's a testament to their enduring chemistry and musical prowess.
What makes Into Oblivion particularly interesting is the band's ability to blend their classic 1980s sound with a modern, progressive approach. The album consists of thirteen songs that are signature Venom: heavy, evil, and catchy. The lead single, Lay Down Your Soul, is a thunderous first offering that harks back to the band's formative years and the song Black Metal. While being slightly tongue in cheek, it bears all the hallmarks of a soon-to-be live classic with its rousing sing-along chorus.
In my opinion, the band's ability to push boundaries and maintain their signature sound is truly remarkable. The album has been in the works for some years, but a number of factors held back its completion until now; the COVID pandemic, recording setbacks, and the hunger to nail it to perfection. However, in the words of Cronos, This album has really pushed the boundaries, but if you want to make a killer album, you pay for it in blood, sweat, and tears.
Personally, I find that the album's success is a testament to the band's resilience and commitment to their craft. The chemistry on Into Oblivion is undeniable and is a musical testament to the longevity of this lineup, which now eclipses any other, clocking in at seventeen years. Danté clicks his fingers, It's gone like that, seventeen years! It's all down to friendship and mutual respect.
One thing that stands out here is the band's ability to stay relevant and influential in the metal scene. Venom's classic lineup trio of Dunn, Lant, and Bray recorded four studio LPs and a live album, and they are often cited by bands such as Metallica, Behemoth, Celtic Frost, and Mayhem as major influences. They are one of the most revered bands of their generation.
However, the article also touches on a legal dispute between Cronos and Abaddon over the use of Venom's copyrighted designs. The dispute revolves around the fact that both parties were licensing and selling official Venom merchandise featuring the contested designs. This highlights the challenges that bands face in protecting their intellectual property and the importance of proper licensing agreements.
In conclusion, Into Oblivion is a highly anticipated release that showcases Venom's enduring legacy and musical prowess. The album is a testament to the band's ability to blend their classic sound with a modern approach, and it's sure to be a hit with fans. However, the legal dispute serves as a reminder of the challenges that bands face in protecting their intellectual property and the importance of proper licensing agreements.
