Suicidal Tendencies – 13 (2013)
“Suicidal is back!” So screams Mike Muir on the lead single to Suicidal Tendencies first album in 13 years, 13. Judging from the collection of songs put on this disc, Suicidal is back indeed. Technically, 13 is the band’s first album since 2000’s Free Your Soul And Save My Mind, hence part of the reasoning for the title 13. 13 years is a long time to be out of the spotlight and away from the fans. The big question on everyone’s mind was could Suicidal still deliver exceptional thrash/metal music after such a long hiatus? The short answer to that question is yes.
Opening with the hard hitting “Shake It Out,” 13 delivers an immediate impact that both long time fans and newcomers alike are bound to enjoy and praise. The opening guitar riff and drum beat scream out this is a hardcore, thrash album that needs to be played loud. A self-celebrating praise of their return, “Shake It Out” is a reminder of how much fun Suicidal Tendencies can be. This is a hard hitting opener that makes me want to listen over and over again.
“God Only Knows…Who I Am” features a solo by Dean Pleasants that is jaw dropping. The song opens slower than most on the album, but it builds in intensity and anticipation as it develops. By the time the chorus arrives, ears are hooked and fists are pumping into the air. This is an immensely pleasing, amazing song. The build up to the chorus is a great set up for the explosion in the middle. The eruption is pure ear candy and “God Only Knows…Who I Am” could be one of the best Suicidal Tendencies song ever recorded.
“Show Some Love…Tear It Down,” highlights guitarists Dean Pleasants’ and Mike Clark’s exceptional abilities and how they are able to weave so well together. The guitars are heavy, the groove is tight, and the song is flat out fun. This is yet another song that will find fans singing along after just one or two listens. I had a grin planted on my face after just one listen. This is a perfect song for moshing or head banging (depending on your preference). And while it slows down in the middle, it just gives the listener a reason to catch their breath before the song takes off in a fit of rage once again.
Overall, 13 is a fantastic album. If you are a fan of How Will I Laugh Tomorrow… or Lights, Camera, Revolution, then you are going to love 13. Layered with multiple infectious grooves, powerful hooks, heavy guitars, and lots of funk and fun, 13 is a powerful album that takes the listener on a journey of musical styles with thrash metal always remaining as the main focus. Suicidal Tendencies did a phenomenal job with this record. There is not a bad song on the album and it is near perfect. When it comes to voting for album of the year, 13 is definitely going to get heavy consideration.
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
- Shake It Out
- Smash It!
- This Ain’t A Celebration
- God Only Knows…Who I Am
- Make Your Stand
- Who’s Afraid?
- Show Some Love…Tear It Down
- Cyco Style
- Slam City
- Till My Last Breath
- Living The Fight
- Life…(Can’t Live With It, Can’t Live Without It)
- This World
Suicidal Tendencies Is:
Mike Muir – Lead Vocals
Dean Pleasants – Lead Guitar
Mike Clark – Rhythm Guitar
Steve Bruner – Bass Guitar
Eric Moore – Drums
Reviewed by Ryo Vie
Hard Rock Hideout 
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