Shattered Existence

Perhaps best known for their thrash metal interpretation of Ray Parker, Jr.'s "Ghostbusters," Xentrix often found itself compared to Anthrax more than anyone. It isn't a bad comparison -- like Anthrax, Xentrix doesn't shy away from heavy subject matter, but also knows how to have fun. However, this isn't to say that Xentrix actually emulated Anthrax or anyone -- as Shattered Existence reminds us, Xentrix wasn't without a sound of its own. "Balance of Power," "Reasons for Destruction," "Dark Enemy" and other songs on this invigorating CD demonstrate that while Xentrix could be bone-crushing, the thrashers weren't nearly as extreme as some of the other bands on Roadrunner (such as Obituary and Deicide). Headbangers who can get into Metallica, Anthrax and Megadeth but may not care for grindcore will also find Xentrix accessible, as well as exciting. ~ Alex Henderson