Cheshire’s Hospital of Death formed in 1994 with the intention of playing a one-off school gig. But between their reformation in 2006 and the announcement of their indefinite hiatus at the end of 2010, they released two full-length albums: Beer, Bitches, Blood (2008) and Surge Kill Steal (2009).

Surge Kill Steal would be at home in the record collection of any 1980’s style thrash metal or NWOBHM fan. A blend of both genres creates a tight and catchy album crammed with thrashy riffs and drumwork, cleverly crafted solos and engaging lyrical content.

Opener Enter Titanus sets the tone for the LP, immediately throwing the listener into a barrage of fast paced riffs teamed with singer Dave Livett’s extensive vocal range.

The following track, Let’s Go Apeshit starts off with a brief audio sample before launching into a galloping riff-driven track. This is arguably one of the strongest songs on the record, boasting an extremely catchy chorus backed up by melodic guitarwork.

Surge Kill Steal offers a change in pace on the track Stairway to Hell, which opens as a thrash number but slows midway through into a minute-long masterful guitar solo reminiscent of Dream Theater’s John Petrucci.

The guitarwork from Stephen Bratt and Stuart Pendergast remains of a high standard throughout the album, however The King of Sweden is a particular highlight. The track pays homage to Swedish virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen both vocally and instrumentally, opening with a neoclassical-influenced solo. The remainder of The King of Sweden features Malmsteen-style licks, and ends on an audio sample of one of the guitarist’s infamous outbursts.

Surge Kill Steal ends on a short instrumental piece titled Second Opinion, once again highlighting the exceptional instrumental skill held by each band member.

The announcement of the band’s hiatus makes it uncertain if Surge Kill Steal will have a follow up album. But with 1980’s style thrash revival bands such as Municipal Waste, Gama Bomb and Bonded By Blood growing ever more popular, perhaps 2011 would be the perfect time for Hospital of Death to experience the success they deserve.