UMUR "Wasteland" is a demo release by US power/thrash metal act Toxik. The demo was originally released in October 1986 on cassette tape. Toxik formed in 1985 and this is their first and only demo before they were signed to Roadrunner Records for the release of their 1987 debut full-length studio album "World Circus". Three out of the five tracks featured on the 15:49 minutes long demo would appear in re-recorded versions on "World Circus" (1987).

The material on "Wasteland" is a fast-paced, aggressive, but also melodic and technically well played power/thrash metal style. Toxik are obviously a very well playing band and lead vocalist Mike Sanders hits the high notes with ease. He has a strong voice and a commanding delivery. "Wasteland" was recorded at North Lake Studios, and features a professional sounding production. Powerful, raw, and detailed. This does not sound like a demo from the mid-80s. It´s maybe a bit less polished than some studio productions, but I´ve heard quite a few contemporary studio album productions which are inferior to this one.

Add to that strong, memorable, and intriguing songwriting, and "Wasteland" certainly shows great promise and does exactly what a demo is supposed to do. Show labels that your band is worth investing in. I´m not surprised that Roadrunner Records signed Toxik shortly after "Wasteland" was released. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved and maybe even a bit too low.