Released on October 13th, 1985, Razor’s “Evil Invaders” is the kind of album that comes out swinging and barely gives you time to catch your breath. This Canadian speed/thrash metal classic is raw, fast and straight to the point. No soft opening, no long detours just sharp riffs, furious drumming and Stace “Sheepdog” McLaren wild vocals.
The album kicks off with “Nowhere Fast” a full-length instrumental attack rather than a short intro. From there, Razor keep the pressure on with tracks like “Cross Me Fool”, “Legacy of Doom” and “Iron Hammer”.
The band attitude was just as direct as its music. The original vinyl back cover carried the statement: “We spit on those who choose to pose, we thrash with all the rest”. That tells you pretty much everything you need to know.
But which tracks hit hardest? Let’s revisit some fan favorites.
“Nowhere Fast”
Forget a slow build-up. “Nowhere Fast” opens the album with fast, attacking guitar riffs and keeps going for around four minutes without needing a single lyric. It sets the pace for everything that follows and proves Razor didn’t need vocals to make a serious racket.
An instrumental opener this aggressive? That’s how you start an album.
“Evil Invaders”
The title track is the centerpiece, bringing together Dave Carlo sharp guitar work and the band relentless speed. It also received an official music video, helping give the album one of its most recognizable songs.
If you want the sound and attitude of “Evil Invaders” in one track, this is an obvious place to start.
“Cross Me Fool”
This one is all about speed, punishing riffs and Sheepdog’s fierce vocal delivery. There’s little room to relax as the band charges ahead, making it a strong choice for anyone who likes their thrash rough around the edges.
Turn it up and try to keep up.
“Legacy of Doom”
“Legacy of Doom” brings more of the raw, aggressive sound that helped define Razor early work. The production doesn’t smooth away the rough edges and that suits the song direct attack.
Sometimes you don’t need fancy tricks. You just need riffs that hit hard.
“Iron Hammer”
Heavy metal songs with “Iron” in the title have a long tradition to live up to and Razor certainly understood the assignment. “Iron Hammer” brings another dose of driving speed and old-school metal force.
It’s a natural pick for fans who want their metal loud, fast and uncompromising.
“Instant Death”
The title says it all. “Instant Death” is a short, chaotic burst of speed metal that doesn’t waste time hanging around. It’s another example of Razor approach on this album: get in, hit hard and get out.
“Cut Throat”
With its heavier drive and aggressive vocals, “Cut Throat” adds another dose of menace to the record. Sheepdog’s gives the song plenty of bite, while the band keeps the energy moving forward.
“Thrashdance”
Closing the album, “Thrashdance” leaves things on a suitably furious note. It’s a fitting end to a record built around speed, aggression and a complete lack of interest in playing it safe.
Which Razor Track Gets Your Vote?
Razor’s “Evil Invaders” keeps things simple: fast songs, cutting riffs and an attitude that leaves no room for posing. With Dave Carlo on guitar, Mike Campagnolo on bass, Stace “Sheepdog” McLaren on vocals and M-bro on drums, the band makes a record that remains a favorite among fans of classic Canadian speed and thrash metal.
Now it’s your turn! 🤘 Is the title track the winner, or are you backing “Nowhere Fast”, “Cross Me Fool”, “Iron Hammer” or another song?
Vote for your favorite track from “Evil Invaders”!
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