Thrash metal fans gathered in full force at the House of Blues Anaheim on April 26, 2025, for a night that celebrated the genre's roots and relentless energy. The event marked Exodus's 40th anniversary of their seminal album Bonded by Blood, with the band performing the album in its entirety, alongside a stellar lineup featuring Death Angel, Hirax, and Nukem.

Opening the night with a vengeance, San Diego thrashers Nukem stormed the stage and wasted no time firing up the crowd. Though they don’t perform live often, the band sounded razor-sharp. Their set pulled heavily from The Unholy Trinity, delivering precision riffs, aggressive tempo changes, and a snarling vocal performance that set a strong foundation for the chaos to come. Despite being the first band of the night, Nukem made it clear they belonged on this lineup, igniting the pit and commanding the room like seasoned veterans.

Next up were Hirax, hailing from Cypress, CA. Frontman Katon W. De Pena led the charge with unmatched vigor, diving into the crowd multiple times while continuing to belt out tracks like “Black Smoke,” “Drill Into the Brain,” and “Bombs of Death.” The intensity ramped up as the mosh pits swelled, with De Pena's dynamic stage presence amplifying the band's thrash assault. Their performance was a testament to their enduring legacy in the thrash scene.

Death Angel, sharing roots with Exodus in the Bay Area, took the stage next, delivering a set that had the crowd in a frenzy. Opening with classics from their debut album The Ultra-Violence, they played “Evil Priest” and “Voracious Souls,” setting the stage for a relentless thrash experience. Guitarists Rob Cavestany and Ted Aguilar unleashed blistering riffs, while bassist Damien Sisson and drummer Will Carroll provided a thunderous rhythm section. Vocalist Mark Osegueda's powerful delivery resonated throughout, and his interactions with the audience added a personal touch to the performance. The set concluded with “Thrown to the Wolves,” leaving fans exhilarated and eager for more.

As the headliners, Exodus delivered a performance that lived up to the monumental occasion. With Rob Dukes back at the helm, the band opened with “Bonded by Blood,” followed by the first five tracks from the album, delivering a nostalgic and powerful set. Guitarists Gary Holt and Lee Altus showcased their legendary riffing prowess, while bassist Jack Gibson and drummer Tom Hunting provided a relentless rhythm section. A highlight of the evening was the live debut of their Scorpions cover, “He’s a Woman - She’s a Man,” featuring guest vocals by Mark Osegueda. This rare and electrifying moment was a standout of the night. The show culminated with “Strike of the Beast,” sending the crowd into a final, frenzied mosh that encapsulated the spirit of thrash metal.

This show was a celebration of thrash metal's rich history and vibrant present. From the explosive energy of Nukem to the enduring power of Exodus, the night was a testament to the genre's legacy and its passionate community. Each band brought their unique flavor to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.