Photo: Salina Damer
German thrashers Warfield recently staked their claim as the latest band in the genre to watch, releasing their second album, With the Old Breed, last month. It makes a fine addition to any thrashers’ collection, showcasing the band’s love for the sound. To get deeper in their heads, Decibel connected with the band to get their picks for the five most-essential Teutonic thrash metal riffs.
When you’re done walking down memory lane, you can listen to With the Old Breed and score your own copy now.
Violent Force – “Sign of Evil”
I’m going to start with the opening riff of “Sign of Evil” by Violent Force. This beast is defined by its raw, aggressive, and fast-paced nature, perfectly complemented by an exciting syntactical vocal structure. It serves as a major influence when it comes to shaping our dynamic preferences in thrash metal. -Matthias Clemens [Guitar]
Destruction – “Bestial Invasion”
One of my all time favorite teutonic thrash riff is the second riff in Destructions “Bestial Invasion”. The one after the opening riff, right when the speed picks up. It’s an awesome and energizing mix between technical playing and evil notes – you just have to start air guitaring to this! -Johannes Clemens [bass/vocals]
Kreator – “Suicide Terrorist”
Kreator was one of my first real introductions to thrash metal, offering me a way to express the anger and frustration I felt as a 15-year-old. Their music became a temporary escape from the challenges of everyday life. It’s evident that their influence continues to shape the riffing style I’m drawn to. There are so many iconic riffs, like the ones in Coma of Souls. However, I’m choosing “Suicide Terrorist” because its rapid, precise palm-muted techniques align perfectly with my taste and the adaptations I made for Warfield. -Matthias Clemens
Sodom – “Sodomy and Lust”
Next up for me is the opening riff for Sodom’s “Sodomy and Lust”. Dark, melancholic sounds combined with vicious shredding cast a spell over you from the first second. First alone, then backed with a fast beat, this riff definitely sticks with you and creates a palpable atmosphere! -Johannes Clemens
Sodom – “Shellfire Defense”
Speaking of Sodom, I’m going to add another one here. Again, it’s an opening riff, but those always have the biggest impact [laughs]. ”Shellfire Defense” with its unrelenting pace captures a militaristic vibe, with a rhythm that’s almost warlike. This is a no-brainer, and in my opinion, the song deserves much more credit! -Matthias Clemens
