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The Formation of Damnation

by Testament

Released: April 29, 2008

Thrash metal

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"The Formation of Damnation" is the ninth studio album by the American thrash metal band Testament. Released on April 29, 2008, it marked the band's first studio album in nearly nine years, following 1999's "The Gathering." This album stands out as the first to feature bassist Greg Christian since "The Ritual" in 1992 and guitarist Alex Skolnick since 1992's live album "Return to the Apocalyptic City." Produced by the band alongside Andy Sneap, a notable producer in the metal genre, the album showcases Testament's return to their thrash metal roots, blending aggressive riffs and melodic elements. Overall, "The Formation of Damnation" is considered a significant comeback for Testament, reinforcing their position in the thrash metal scene and demonstrating their undiminished vigor and creativity.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

It also represents the return of drummer Paul…

It also represents the return of drummer Paul Bostaph, who had previously played with the band in the early 1990s.

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Reception

The album debuted strongly on various charts and won "Best Album" at the 2008 Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards. "The Formation of Damnation" received critical acclaim for its powerful blend of traditional thrash with modern production quality. Critics praised the band for staying true to their roots while also evolving their sound.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

Produced by the band alongside Andy Sneap, a notable producer in the metal genre, the album showcases Testament's return to their thrash metal roots, blending aggressive riffs and melodic elements. It also represents the return of drummer Paul Bostaph, who had previously played with the band in the early 1990s.

"The Formation of Damnation" received critical acclaim for its powerful blend of traditional thrash with modern production quality. Critics praised the band for staying true to their roots while also evolving their sound. The album debuted strongly on various charts and won "Best Album" at the 2008 Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards.

Overall, "The Formation of Damnation" is considered a significant comeback for Testament, reinforcing their position in the thrash metal scene and demonstrating their undiminished vigor and creativity.