Skeletonwitch "Beyond the Permafrost"

Something like 3 Inches of Blood without the annoying (but admittedly fun) high-pitched singing, Skeletonwitch is a modern-day metal act with its collective feet planted in classic sounds. The band's second full-length, Beyond the Permafrost, is fast, straightforward and tight, mixing a ripping thrash foundation with elements of melodic death metal and black metal. While the vocals consist of demonic, raspy screeches and a few hellish growls, and the blackened guitar melodies are cold and sinister, the record still finds a pretty unique balance between these evil sounds and fun, throwback energy. It's skillfully played -- especially in terms of the guitars -- and it has character.

None of Beyond the Permafrost's songs strike me as particularly memorable or standouts, but there are some slick harmonies, subtly catchy choruses and blazing solos to be heard. Everything gels together well, too, helping these Ohio natives sound as authentic as their peers. The punchy, high-octane thrash is the record's real draw, but there's plenty of well executed variety to boot.

I'm not crazy about the production, so just listen loud: Skeletonwitch - Soul Thrashing Black Sorcery

Purchase this one from the Relapse store.