Fuel Injected .45

If ever there is a metallion that never garnered the praise she deserves, it's Ani Kyd. With a career that most rockers would give their left little guy for (Spank Machine, Thor, Approach the Throne), she's obviously got a bigger set of cajones than we accredit her. Proof in the pudding, this release of previously defunct yet now reunited outfit Fuel Injected .45 features her mind-shattering vocal pyrotechnics coupled with the rhythmic prowess of members of Strapping Young Lad, Tenet and Grip Inc. The end result is a sound and style that shifts between almost sugary serenity, imposing beastliness and an oppressive crush. Switching from a throaty croon and almost operatic bellow to gritty grind while the band hammer out low-end chugs Metallica have been struggling to recapture since a bus turned Cliff Burton into road kill, this collective's thunderous ability never ceases to impress. Yes, some songs could be omitted, as they're not entirely overwhelming and sound dated in retrospect. Still, when it comes to prowess and sheer power, Kyd's Fuel Injected .45 reign supreme.