Metal Church's excellent debut had impressed critics and fans alike with its ferocious blend of classic
metal and
thrash. But by the time they released its follow-up, 1986's
The Dark, the band seemed to be struggling with their direction and wrestling with internal problems. The fact that they were collectively one of the most unattractive bands ever (even by
heavy metal standards) didn't help matters either, especially in image-conscious America, so it was no surprise when the band's appeal remained firmly confined to the
metal underground. Which is too bad, since
The Dark contained some of the group's best material, including the brutal intensity of
"Start the Fire" and
"Method to Your Madness," as well as what was probably their best-known song, the astoundingly heavy epic
"Watch the Children Play." Extensive touring with
Elektra labelmates
Metallica had also motivated the band to develop their
thrashier inclinations, resulting in vicious moshers like
"Ton of Bricks" and
"Over My Dead Body." ~ Eduardo Rivadavia
