Exodus, one of the titans of thrash metal, solidified their place in heavy metal history with their debut studio album “Bonded by Blood”. Released in 1985, the album showcased the raw intensity and ferocity of the genre, propelled by the unmistakable vocals of Paul Baloff. However, the journey to the album’s release was fraught with challenges and delays, ultimately adding to its mystique and impact on the metal scene.
The Birth of “Bonded by Blood”
Originally titled “A Lesson in Violence” the album recorded in 1984 and immediately generated significant underground buzz. However, difficulties with the band and their record company delayed its official release. Despite these setbacks, “Bonded by Blood” became a beacon of thrash metal, heralding a new era of sonic aggression and musical innovation.
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Impaler” was originally slated for inclusion but was ultimately scrapped. The primary riff found its way into Metallica’s repertoire, utilized in their song “Trapped Under Ice”. Such twists of fate only added to the intrigue surrounding Exodus and their seminal album.
Cover Art and Reissues
Artwork concerns further delayed the album’s release, leading to changes in the cover art. Initially featuring twin infants, the album cover was eventually replaced with the band emblem against a crowd scene. However, the original artwork was restored for a 1999 reissue by Century Media, along with additional live tracks from a 1989 Combat re-release.
In 2008, Exodus revisited “Bonded by Blood” re-recording it under the name “Let There Be Blood”. This reimagined version featured a new lineup, including drummer Tom Hunting and guitarist Gary Holt, breathing new life into the thrash metal classic.
Critically acclaimed and revered by fans, “Bonded by Blood” is hailed as one of the most influential thrash metal albums of all time. Bernard Doe of Metal Forces and Eduardo Rivadavia of AllMusic praised the album for its groundbreaking sound and impact on the genre. Rivadavia even suggested that had the album been released immediately after recording. It might have been considered one of the seminal albums responsible for igniting the thrash metal movement.
(Alternative cover)
Shaping the Thrash Metal Landscape
However, despite the album’s undeniable brilliance, some critics have noted Exodus’ uncompromising approach as both a strength and a weakness. Canadian journalist Martin Popoff praised the album as forward-thinking but remarked on Exodus’ perceived lack of dimension compared to bands like Metallica and Megadeth.
In the thrash metal history, Exodus and “Bonded by Blood” occupy a special place, their influence transcending their notoriety. As essential components of the thrash metal puzzle. Exodus remains a driving force in the genre, their legacy cemented by the timeless brilliance of their debut album.
Track listing
- “Bonded by Blood”
- “Exodus”
- “And Then There Were None”
- “A Lesson in Violence”
- “Metal Command”
Side two - “Piranha”
- “No Love”
- “Deliver Us to Evil”
- “Strike of the Beast”
Re-issue edition bonus tracks - “And Then There Were None” (live)
- “A Lesson in Violence” (live)
