Anvil

There's been a lot of commotion about old school metal stalwarts Anvil as of late. It's dust kicked up by their rags-to-riches documentary Anvil! The Story Of Anvil, which has generated some better-late-than-never adoration. Therefore latest effort This Is Thirteen will undoubtedly be heaped with critical and public praise. While it's entirely deserved, seeing as This Is Thirteen is one of Anvil's most coherent, cohesive, aggressive and angry albums to date, a greater point must be kept in mind. This album was created, as the movie attests, when Anvil had reached the lowest point in their lengthy career. At that, one could surmise that much of this material sounds inspired by, or spawned from, aggravation, frustration and general anger. This Is Thirteen harkens back to the power and efficiency of Anvil's earliest work, offset by a darker vibe. From the expedient thrash of "Bombs Away" to the cryptic foreboding of the title track and "Game Over," with its upbeat huskiness, This Is Thirteen's effectiveness has nothing to do with any recent attention. It comes from the inspiration of disappointment. It will be interesting to see what the trio accomplish with this second chance. Thanks to its abrasive, mighty stance, This Is Thirteen spells great luck for Anvil.