Testament- The Formation of Damnation

Review and Description:
Testament: The Formation of Damnation
Year:
2008
Musicians:
Chuck Billy: Vocals
Alex Skolnick: Lead guitar
Eric Peterson: Rhythm, lead guitar
Greg Christian: Bass
Paul Bostaph: Drums

Producer:
Eric Peterson and Chuck Billy

Label:
Nuclear Blast Records

Tracks:
1. For the Glory Of...
2. More Than Meets the Eye
3. Evil Has Landed
4. Formation of Damnation
5. Dangers of the Faithless
6. Persecuted Won't Forget
7. Henchmen Ride
8. Killing Season
9. Afterlife
10. F.E.A.R.
11. Leave Me Forever

The Formation of Damnation is the ninth studio album by Testament. Despite not being a mainstream hard rock band (they are very metal, thank you),the album debuted at no. 59 on the Billboard 200 Chart and sold 11,900 copies in its first week. It also won the several "Best Metal Album Awards" during the year 2008. It took 9 years for Testament to complete the idea and production of The Formation of Damnation, including a return with the original line up of Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson, Alex Skolnick and Greg Christian with the addition of Paul Bostaph.

The album is a mix of classic Testament trash metal music with hints of the more modern “metal core” style presented in younger bands like Trivium, Killswitch Engage and Shadows Fall. The Formation of Damnation is full of great riffs (courtesy of Eric Peterson), amazing solos (Alex Skolnick might be one the most accomplished thrash metal guitarist around), and incredible drumming (that’s Mr. Bostaph for you). Of course, Chuck Billy and Greg Christian are solid, making the lineup sounding as metal as Testament has ever been. The Tip Factory says: This is the metal album of the year 2008, do you need more information? Tip Score 8.5