It took a while but The Haunted have finally released their third album. Although the first song might give you the impression that the band have become more melodic, they put things straight right away with the second song. “Godpuppet” smashes and pounds like a true The Haunted song and even Pantera can learn a lesson in aggression from these guys.

Compared to their previous albums, One Kill Wonder is even more aggressive and The Haunted barely gives you any moments to catch your breath. The music is driven by excellent guitar riffs and one can safely say that these guys know how to play good thrash metal with old school influences. However, they do not reach the level of their self-titled debut album.

Why? Well, One Kill Wonder somehow misses the necessary hooks that their previous albums had. It is a good album, don’t get me wrong, but it just doesn’t have the same appeal as their older work.

The songs are all compact and furious and don’t bore for a single second, yet I somehow have the feeling that this band can do better. If you like fast and furious, this album certainly won’t let you down. It might not be as good as their self titled debut album but fact is that The Haunted are still one of the best thrash metal bands out there.

As a bonus, longtime friend Mike Amott from Arch Enemy and Spiritual Beggars made a guest appearance on the album in the song “Bloodletting”. He takes care of a few solo parts as well as a solo duel with Anders Björler at the end of the song. The sound of the album is heavy and of course it was recorded in the famous Fredman studios in Gothenburg, Sweden. Final judgment: One Kill Wonder is a good album but it doesn’t quite reach the level of expectations set by the band in the past.