Modern thrifty thrash engineers Hatesphere blast back with another annexation to their catalogue of fury-fueled worktime whistlers. A few items have transfigured to a slight degree, yet the core ingredient of the hardy riff remains the backbone of Hatesphere's creations of execration. A competent yet predictable sounding Tue Madsen production lays down the thick crunch, but seems to sacrifice crispness of high end at the same time. The latest sound of Aborted's "Slaughter & Apparatus" comes to mind, but without the full level of total darkness that completely molded the bass and guitars together as one. I like Tue Madsen's work; I think it's solid, but the tone is getting a bit too thick and disregarding of the altitudinous end of the sound spectrum. Musically, Hatespshere trot their comfort line but take a few educated guesses along the way. "Drinking With the King of the Dead" is an interest piquer that tests the waters of unfamiliar territory. Imagine Danish brutal thrash from the bayou! Ballet of the Brute had "Only the Strongest", The Sickness Within had "Bleed to Death", and Serpent Smiles & Killer Eyes has this flagship anthem. It is a choice piece showcasing the chugging thrash golem that Hatesphere has built their name on, but also displays profound skill in breaking new ground and applying proven "dark thrash" sensibilities. "Let Them Hate" comes in a close second for replay ability, with a tornadic main riff that twists and spirals, leaving one in a state of near qualmishness. The album's last word, "Absolution", is another step in the experimental direction for "BitterBall", containing equal parts thrash, death, and symphonic metal.

I enjoy this new album, much like I enjoy their two prior works, but it is not one of those discs I can tolerate from beginning to end. I think Hatesphere sensed a change would be welcome in order to expand the dimensions of their sound. And luckily, they have the skills to pull it off without sounding like a one wheel wonder. But it is certainly not their most aggressive work to date. Let's just say that when I listen to it, I basically listen to the same 3 or 4 songs. Frequently and excessively.  Serpent Smiles..  excels and surprises in certain areas, but is generally soporific in the rest.