Betrayer was a short lived thrash metal band, hailing from Skutvika on Hamarøy in the very north of Norway. The band was formed in 1989, inspired by bands such as Metallica, Kreator, Testament, Iron Maiden, Slayer etc. But the band started to write original material from day 1. They entered a local talent contest, called "Rock mot Rus" (Rock against Drugs). Out of 70 bands, Betrayer landed the 3rd place. They invested in more equipment, and started booking gigs. This was a time before the internet, so tape trading demos with other bands, friends and magazines was the only way to try get their name around. Betrayer recorded their one and only CD EP in 1993. They were 100% serious about their music. But since they lived in such a rural place, and since the members of the band lived so far apart, Betrayer folded, and they played their last gig in 1997. Today all of the members are active in other metal constellations, such as various tribute bands

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WORLD OF CHAOS (1993) INDEPENDENT

I thought I had a pretty good oversight of what metal there is, and has been, coming out of Norway. So when I learned about this thrash metal band from someone in the US (thanks, Ben), I was surprised to say the least. I had never heard about Betrayer before. So I ordered 'World Of Chaos' directly from one of the guitarists, just in time before he was all out of them. Obscure thrash metal is an underground favorite these days, and Rune told me that he had gotten requests from all over the world to buy the CD lately.

This is a decent sounding mix of thrash metal and speed metal. The base is thrash, and I think that is mainly what these guys are going for. But there is not only typical thrash riffing going on. Especially the solos are a little more melodic than what is usually used in this genre, adding a classic metal feel to the overall impression also. The vocals are harsh, but not growling. There is of course a distinct accent going on here too. The bass pummels nicely along the guitars, while the drums keeps a steady, but never boring, beat. My favorite songs on this independently released EP, are the opening "Terrified", and "The Day After". Both represents the heavier side of the band, and also the 2 tracks that follows the thrash metal style the closest. 'World Of Chaos' was the only CD Betrayer ever released. And since only 500 copies were even pressed, this is bound to become a treasured collectors item.