Dead Tree Seeds Toxic Thoughts Review
Dead Tree Seeds
Toxic Thoughts
M&O Music
2024/2026
2 years after its initial release, the Parisian Thrash Metal Outfit Dead Tree Seeds are finally unleashing their album “Toxic Thoughts” across all digital platforms. No matter which streaming service you use, it’s waiting for you.
Unfortunately, this is my first encounter with the band's music, but while I'm unfamiliar with their catalog, I'm right at home with their blend of Thrash Metal. Most old-school heads will be too. If you dig Exodus, Testament, and a bit of the New Wave of Thrash Metal, there's a good chance you'll find something to love here. From what I've gathered, the band has been around since 2009 and has several other releases readily available for those looking to dive deeper into their discography.
On “Toxic Thoughts”, Dead Tree Seeds pull from all the classic hallmarks of the Bay Area scene while mixing in traces of Teutonic Thrash and modern influences. Beyond the killer riffs and razor-sharp songwriting, the production is second to none. This album is surgically clean and certified to slice you into the smallest possible pieces.
If I had one minor complaint, it'd be the vocal mix. I'd push the vocals up just a bit more because you want your frontman standing above the chaos. They're not buried by any means, but I think the album would've benefited from giving them a little more room to breathe. Vocally, I'm reminded of Zetro from Exodus, which only adds to my enjoyment.
The riffs throughout are exquisite, carrying the kind of gnarly, fist-pumping energy that Thrash Metal should always possess. There's also plenty of shredding lead work to sink your teeth into, so if you're like me and have a weakness for shred guitar, this is mandatory listening.
Finding bands like Dead Tree Seeds is one of my favorite aspects of music journalism. The average fan isn't going to stumble across every hidden gem out there, but when you're sorting through hundreds of albums every month, occasionally something jumps out and demands your attention. Dead Tree Seeds fit that description. Do yourself a favor and check out “Toxic Thoughts” on your preferred streaming platform. You just might discover your next Thrash Metal obsession.
Standouts – “Juggernaut”, “Dark Parts Of History”, “Thrash Hymn” and “Pure Hate”.