On March 7, 2025, Destruction released their 17th studio album, The Birth of Malice, via Napalm Records.
With The Birth of Malice, the German thrash legends prove once again why they remain one of the most vicious and consistent forces in metal. This album is a relentless onslaught of high-speed riffs, punishing drums, and razor-sharp aggression—everything you’d expect from one of thrash’s founding titans.
The album opens with “Birth of Malice," a brief but menacing instrumental that builds tension with ominous guitars and pounding drums before launching into the full-scale thrash assault. That explosion comes in the form of "Destruction," a self-titled declaration of dominance that wastes no time in delivering rapid-fire riffing, crushing rhythms, and Schmier’s signature snarling vocals.
From there, the band keeps the momentum going with “Cyber Warfare," a blistering track that rages against the chaos of the digital age, packed with razor-sharp riffs and relentless speed. “No Kings—No Masters” follows, an anthemic and rebellious call to arms that blends furious energy with a groove-laden, chant-worthy chorus.
Destruction’s signature blend of speed and aggression is on full display with “Scumbag Human Race," a venomous indictment of societal decay, while “God of Gore” embraces a heavier, almost death-metal-infused brutality. The slower, crushing groove of “A.N.G.S.T.” offers a moment of ominous intensity before the band launches back into overdrive with “Dealer of Death," a track that lives up to its name with machine-gun riffing and pure thrash fury.
“Evil Never Sleeps” is a standout, channeling classic Destruction energy with a razor-sharp attack that could easily fit alongside their 80s material. As the album nears its conclusion, “Chains of Sorrow” delivers some of the most dynamic moments on the record, balancing melody with relentless thrash power. “Greed” keeps the intensity high, delivering a fast and furious takedown of corruption and excess.
Finally, Destruction wraps things up with a blistering cover of Accept’s “Fast as a Shark," putting their own thrashy spin on the classic anthem while paying tribute to one of Germany’s metal pioneers. It’s a fitting way to close an album that is unapologetically fast, aggressive, and full of metal spirit.
With The Birth of Malice, Destruction reaffirms their place as thrash metal royalty. The band sounds as fierce and inspired as ever, delivering an album that is both a nod to their roots and a reminder that they are still at the top of their game. If you crave unrelenting speed, razor-sharp riffs, and headbanging fury, this is an essential listen that will leave you begging for more.
Until next time, play it loud, friends!
Rating: 9/10 – A Thrash Metal Masterclass!
