I have to give some credit to Shadow Kingdom Records on this one, because if it weren't for them signing this Kentucky band and promoting the already-released Black Crusades, I doubt I would have ever heard it. Tombstalker are a wrecking ball of a melodic death metal band. Uniting the tight riffing and aggressive nature of groups like At the Gates and The Haunted with the putrid, swampy distortion of Wombbath, these blackened, thrashy monsters are a true force of nature.

Things kick off heavy enough from the start, but my exhibit A in the case of "how awesome is Tombstalker...really?" would have to be "Blood Thirster." The drums vibrate my very soul, threatening to shake it right out of its fleshy vessel. Hook after hook after hook tear by, complemented by the vicious bass guitar tone and deep growls. The reverb on the latter really goes a long way in turning an already terrifying performance into a voice straight out of Hell.

If I only had two words to describe Black Crusades they would be "fast" and "repugnant." Songs power by with a rumbling tone that at the right volume could move mountains. And smartly they always seem to leave me wanting more with their very abrupt conclusions. I'm just getting my slam-dance going into overdrive, and then it's over. Uncool, man. But hey, whatevs. With the conclusion of each killer track, it's onto one just as good or better. The title track and "Soul Eater" are particular standouts that you will not want to miss, even if the former starts to drag a bit with that rough tapping solo.

If you are into big, beefy, riff-driven metal in the vein of High on Fire, you'll definitely bow down to Tombstalker. Memorable hooks, great drumming, throat-ripping vocals...what's not to like? I think the band could benefit from a bit more polish and individuality, but other than that everything is quite kosher. But like I said, the album has been streaming since last year, so hop on the pain train below. Don't forget who sent you.