Best Wishes

"Best Wishes" is the second studio album by Cro-Mags, released in 1989. As pioneers of the crossover thrash genre, Cro-Mags brought an intense fusion of hardcore punk and thrash metal in this record. Unlike their acclaimed debut album "The Age of Quarrel," which had a more hardcore punk sound, "Best Wishes" leaned more heavily into metal influences, showcasing intricate guitar solos and a thicker, heavier sound.

One of the standout facts about "Best Wishes" is the lineup change that accompanied its release. John Joseph, the band's original vocalist, had departed, and Harley Flanagan, the band's founding bassist, took over vocal duties. This shift gave the album a distinct vocal tone that is both aggressive and raw, reflecting the overall intensity of the music.

The album opens with "Death Camps," a brutal track that sets the tone with its fast-paced, unapologetic energy. Lyrically, "Best Wishes" dives into themes of struggle, spiritual warfare, and personal perseverance. The spirit of resilience and fight is palpable in tracks like "Days of Confusion" and "The Only One."

The cover art of "Best Wishes" is another interesting facet, featuring a pentagram along with the band's logo. While this imagery might suggest a darker, more sinister theme, it reflects the band's embrace of the energy and rebellion that typified the era's crossover scene.

"Best Wishes" has made its mark as a vital piece of the hardcore and thrash crossover movement, demonstrating Cro-Mags' influence in both genres. The album continues to be celebrated for its powerful fusion of styles and its testament to the fierce, high-energy ethos of late 80s underground music.