UMUR "The Truth" is a compilation album by Swedish thrash metal act Mefisto. The album was released through Blooddawn Productions in 1999. It compiles the material from the band´s two 1986 demos "Megalomania" (May 1986) and "The Puzzle" (November 1986), which was the only material recorded and released by Mefisto during their orginal run from 1985-1987. While the name Mefisto may not ring a bell to many people these days, they are considered one of the early originators of the Swedish extreme metal scene (along with artists like Bathory, Merciless, and Obscurity). As the two original cassette tape demos have long been out of print and therefore rare collector´s items, it´s arguably a great idea to release "The Truth", and bring to light these two influential releases.

Stylistically Mefisto are strongly influenced by the German speed/thrash metal scene, and of course by Bathory, but their music also occassionally features traditional heavy metal influences (a Mercyful Fate influence pops up once or twice). The band are well playing and especially the lead guitar work and the sharp thrashy riffs deserve a mention. The vocals on the first demo are grunted snarls delivered in staccato style, while they are slightly more aggressive snarling on the second demo (but still delivered in staccato style). The first demo is more immediate while the second demo is a bit more experimental, but "The Truth" works well and has a good tracklist flow. There´s not a significant difference between the sound productions of the two demos, which further strengthens the feeling that "The Truth" is a compilation album which works as both a well constructed listening experience as well as a valid historic document. A 3 star (60%) rating is warranted.