Teutonic thrash metal titans Kreator are back with their 16th album, four years after the relatively bland Hate Über Alles, which largely failed to engage me. All the classic bands of the once truly evil-sounding German scene are still active, and while Sodom have stayed closer to their sinister roots, Kreator have evolved into a band playing a more melodic, borderline anthemic brand of thrash that, despite its catchiness, still retains a dose of venom and works extremely well live. For me, the modern Kreator era begins with Enemy of God and peaks seven years later with Phantom Antichrist. Since then, it's been hit and miss, although even weaker albums like Gods of Violence and Hate Über Alles still contained a few killer tracks.

It should come as no surprise, then, that Krushers of the World delivers more of the same: polished yet slightly rough around the edges, a bit cheesy but undeniably combative, often thrilling in its aggression, with the occasional unfortunate dip in quality. Kreator are at their best when mixing fast and furious rolling riffage with melody and blood-pumping, fist-raising choruses, as heard on "Blood of Our Blood," "Psychotic Imperator," and parts of "Barbarian" and "Deathscream." "Tränenpalast" also warrants a nod, featuring Britta Görtz of Hiraes on harsh vocals and a breath of fresh air. However, I do find myself wishing for more speed and outright aggression, particularly to replace weaker melodeath-tinged cuts like "Satanic Anarchy" and the title track, both of which send my mind unwillingly drifting toward Gothenburg.

Chances are you've heard this before. If you're a fan, especially of later-era Kreator, several tracks here will leave a mark. If you've always found them too soft, Krushers... probably won't change your mind. Still, this is another consistent and enjoyable effort from these battle-hardened veterans.