Anthrax
continued their downward spiral with
Stomp 442
, a generic collection of
speed metal
bombast. Previously, the band had been able to save their weakest material by the sheer force of their personality, but by the time they recorded
, they had lost a number of their key members. Instead of recharging the band, the new members make
seem somewhat unsure of where to go next -- they pull out their old bag of tricks, but none of their blistering riffs, thundering drums, or
hip-hop
experiments carry any excitement any more. A handful of tracks suggest that the band could save itself, but
is a disheartening experience for the band's dedicated followers. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine