Italy boasts a thriving underground scene, packed with bands of every shape, sound, and style—many of them seriously talented. Among these are Ural, active since 2010 and returning this year with their fourth full-length, Anthropic Genetic Involution.
The Turin band’s trajectory is clear. Over the past 16 years, they’ve grown steadily. They release albums at a consistent pace and maintain a solid lineup, especially in recent years. The result is undeniably positive. Compared to their previous record, Psychoverse, Ural hasn’t lost any momentum. Their sound remains rooted in raw, rebellious thrash, influenced by old-school bands like Anthrax and Exodus. They also incorporate extra experimentation reminiscent of Voivod and similar acts.
Extreme Paranoia launches the album with hard-hitting technical thrash and dissonant edges. Break the Fall is more direct, blending crossover elements. God of Lies intensifies with structured chaos. Wrong Children adds a progressive, layered feel. Open Scars mixes aggression with tense pauses. Rat in a Cage delivers accessibility and melody without losing impact. Flat Black experiments with jazz/thrash, referencing J.J. Johnson. Terror Eyes returns to aggressive riffing, and …to Change Your Vision closes with atmospheric restraint, maintaining unease.
All things considered, Anthropic Genetic Involution is a solid, energetic, and multifaceted release that stays firmly rooted in old-school thrash. Ural have taken another step forward, proving themselves to be among the most in-form rising acts in the Italian thrash metal scene. The experimental edge hints at exciting possibilities ahead, suggesting the band could soon reach new creative heights. For now, Ural’s momentum shows no signs of slowing—making the future worth watching.
