Flotsam & Jetsam formed in Phoenix, Arizona, in the early 80s and their 1986 debut ‘Doomsday for the Deceiver’ is still considered a genre classic. Bassist Jason Newsted wa recruited by Metallica but his departure didn’t faze Flotsam & Jetsam, as illustrated by ‘No Place for Disgrace’ (1988). They subsequently inked a new deal with MCA but ‘When the Storm Comes Down’ (1990) didn’t make the impact they were hoping for. Throughout the nineties Flotsam and Jetsam sailed a more progressive course, with varying degrees of success. Their recent history is characterised by personnel changes but they nevertheless sound rejuvenated on the aptly self-titled ‘Flotsam and Jetsam’ (2016). The return of former members Mike Gilbert and Michael Spencer brought fresh oxygen to the band, culminating in ‘The End of Chaos’ (2019). ‘Blood in the Water’ (2021) is their latest contribution: consummate musicianship meets old school thrash/speed vibe meets catchy choruses on what is arguably their best record since their acclaimed debut. Mosh pit material!!(#GMM24)
