REVIEW: EXCITER – Death Machine

 

EXCITER – Death Machine

Massacre Records

Anyone with even a passing familiarity with EXCITER knows exactly what they’re stepping into: uncompromising speed metal, raw to the bone, delivered with the kind of vocal ferocity that feels like the singer is spitting fire with every line. Death Machine, the latest release from the legendary Canadian trio (4 members here), embraces that identity without hesitation. The band sounds particularly intense this time around, and that heightened aggression radiates through every track.

If I had to place this album somewhere within their long history, it most often brought Long Live the Loud to mind. That’s not to claim Death Machine reaches the iconic status of that classic—only time can make that judgment. What’s clear, though, is that EXCITER have crafted a record that respects their roots while still delivering the kind of high‑velocity metal their fans expect.

A standout element here is the performance of new vocalist Kenny “Metal Mouth” Winter. His delivery—imagine Udo on an adrenaline surge—fits EXCITER’s sound with surprising precision, adding grit without sacrificing clarity. He feels like a natural extension of the band’s long‑established sonic identity.

Overall, Death Machine is a solid, confident release from a veteran band that still knows exactly how to ignite a speed‑metal assault. Listeners can draw their own conclusions, but fans of the genre—and especially long‑time EXCITER followers—will likely find plenty to enjoy.

Highlights: “Death Machine,” “Dungeon Descendants,” “Razor in Your Back,” “HellFire,” and “Skull Breaker” (featuring a killer hidden solo).

Nick Parastatidis