CRUEL FORCE - HANEDA

The current lineup features GG Alex on drums, Slaughter on guitar, Carnivore handling vocals, and Spider on bass. Together, they continue to push the band’s uncompromising style forward. With "Haneda", CRUEL FORCE delivers new material that revisits their signature elements: lightning-fast tempos, aggressive guitar work, and an atmosphere that straddles the line between occult-tinged black metal and classic speed metal, forming the foundation of the record.

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From the very first notes, CRUEL FORCE sets the tone for record. The album begins with 'The Cross', a about one minute long intro that explodes from the start with epic sounding melodic guitars and a rhythm that hints at something big. This short, nostalgic passage builds tension before waltzing into 'Whips-A-Swinging', The track hits hard with frantic guitars and fast but powerful drumming, capturing the raw energy and unfiltered aggression of classic speed/thrash metal. The bridge stands out with a deliberately raw, slightly unfinished riff, yet it fits seamlessly into the track’s overall concept and energy. Reinforcing the band’s uncompromising sound while adding depth and character to the composition. 'Swords of Iron' leans heavily into traditional heavy metal, combining blistering passages with classic melodic motifs delivered in the band’s trademark dramatic force. Slaughter’s guitar work takes center stage, alternating between rapid-fire runs and melodic phrasing that give the track a dynamic edge while maintaining its raw, aggressive foundation. A brief sitar intro (i think), leads into the nearly five-minute instrumental 'Crystal Skull', which thrills with thrash-infused riffs and soaring melodic solos. The composition’s delightfully exotic, almost oriental touch brings a lively, engaging energy even without vocals. GG Alex’s drumming drives the track forward relentlessly, while bass and guitar remain tightly interlocked, exemplifying the tight, aggressive interplay that defines much of "Haneda". 

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Kicking off with a bit of mystery, 'Warlords' quickly establishes itself as one of Haneda’s most dynamic tracks. The song alternates between blistering speed-metal sections and slower, tension-laden passages, creating a sense of drama and unpredictability. Spider’s bass work is especially impressive, adding subtle runs that enrich the track’s raw, aggressive texture. The intro melodies remind me of DIO, with an underlying Egyptian vibe before the song erupts into full-on speed metal, perfectly living up to its title and invoking the majestic atmosphere of the classic band WARLORD. Closing out the album, Title Track 'Haneda' wastes no time establishing its classic metal roots. A rumbling bass and driving kick drum lay the foundation, gradually building tension as the guitars rise and pull the listener in. The track then shifts into a more pronounced heavy metal direction, marked by strong dynamics and a confident sense of momentum. Bringing together the album’s core elements-speed, aggression, and a subtly epic atmosphere-the title track feels like a deliberate summary of what CRUEL FORCE set out to achieve. Slaughter’s guitar work once again takes the spotlight, merging traditional speed metal riffing with melodic touches that add structure and depth. A well-timed break, reinforced by gang shouts, provides a satisfying climax, making 'Haneda' a fitting and impactful conclusion.

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"Haneda" delivers exactly what it promises—fast, raw, and unapologetically old-school. CRUEL FORCE channels the spirit of classic speed and thrash metal with conviction, crafting an album that thrives on energy, grit, and a clear passion for the genre.

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SCORE 9/10

REVIEWED BY SWAMPY