UMUR "Brain Death" is an EP release by US thrash metal act Nuclear Assault. The EP was released through Combat Records in August 1986. It´s the band´s first label release preceding the release of their debut full-length studio album "Game Over", which was released in October 1986. Nuclear Assault were formed in 1984 and released two demo cassette tapes in 1985 ("Back with Vengeance" and "Live, Suffer, Die") before being signed to Combat Records.

"Brain Death" features 3 tracks and a full playing time of 14 minutes. "Final Flight" and "Demolition" are exclusive to this release, while the 7:15 minutes long title track appears in the exact same version on "Game Over (1986)", effectively closing that album. Stylistically the music on the EP is heavy metal infuced thrash metal and unmistakably the sound of Nuclear Assault. Already this early on they had a distinct sound. The riffs, the rhythms, and especially John Connelly´s unique, raw, and occasionally higher pitched screaming vocal style define the band´s trademark style.

The material is well written and effective, the musicianship is strong on all posts, and "Brain Death" also features a powerful, raw, and well sounding production, so upon conclusion it´s a good quality first label release by Nuclear Assault, setting the stage perfectly for the release of "Game Over (1986)" later in the year. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.