Exodus – Goliath
Released: March 20, 2026
Review by: DJJD (The Metallicave Radio Show”)
The Exodus train just keeps rolling, this time with a slight lineup shakeup—Steve ‘Zetro’ Souza is out, and
my buddy Rob Dukes has returned! Zetro’s distinctive style has long been part of the Exodus identity,
though it clearly wasn’t for everyone. Dukes returns with a similar rasp but adds a more modern, guttural
edge, raising expectations for Goliath as the band builds on its legacy as thrash pioneers.
Goliath wastes no time getting started. The opening stretch is packed with relentless, high-impact thrash.
“3111” sets the tone with sharp riffs and strong solos, while “Hostis Humani Generis” showcases legend
Tom Hunting at full throttle. Dukes’ vocals feel right at home (Like he never left), especially when he leans
into a more aggressive, venomous delivery. “The Changing Me” stands out thanks to a guest spot from
Peter Tägtgren (Founder, main songwriter, lead vocalist, and guitarist of death metal band Hypocrisy as
well as the industrial metal band Pain), adding both clean vocals and a growled back-and-forth with
Dukes. Meanwhile, Gary Holt and Lee Altus deliver crushing riffs and tight harmonies. Closing track “The
Dirtiest of the Dozen” taps into classic thrash energy, recalling the band’s earlier era, with a standout solo
section that even brings Jack Gibson into the spotlight.
The single “Promise You This” is more divisive. Its simpler, chug-heavy approach feels closer to the ’90s
era, when many thrash bands experimented with slower, groove-based sounds. It’s undeniably catchy,
with a solid hook and a strong solo, but it doesn’t quite land the same way. It contrasts with more
traditional thrash cuts like “2 Minutes Hate” and the chaotic, high-energy “Violence Works.” Both tracks
are solid and show that Holt and Altus are still pushing themselves creatively.
The album isn’t all speed, though. Two tracks lean into midtempo territory, closer to traditional heavy
metal than pure thrash. “Goliath” lives up to its name with a slower, almost doom-like pace that borders
on big Black Sabbath influence. It works as a tonal shift but feels a bit drawn out. “Beyond the Ever
Horizon” starts aggressively before settling into a steadier groove, though its instrumental midsection
shines. Tom Hunting in particular is excellent on all tracks BUT especially on this one (My fav) and the
track finishes strong.
Where the experimentation truly pays off is “Summon of the God Unknown.” This Black Sabbath–inspired
epic is a standout, regardless of expectations or legacy. Exodus has always been capable of stretching
beyond strict thrash boundaries, and this track proves it again. Gibson’s bass anchors the song
beautifully, giving it cohesion and weight. It’s not your typical Exodus, but it’s so well executed that it
elevates the entire album.
Back in 2021, Persona Non Grata felt like a statement that Exodus was back. With Goliath, they prove
they’re still on top. It’s different in all the right ways—hard, heavy, and aggressive. It may not be the
definitive Exodus album too some fans, but it’s a fantastic metal record and in my humble opinion the
best Exodus album with Dukes. On a side note, Holt & Atlus’s guitar sound is definitively different on this
album. (Which I really like). It not as “up front” heavy & overdone. Its perfect!