06) Cattle Decapitation, Terrasite (Metal Blade Records)

I’ve seen Cattle Decapitation live and enjoyed their intensity immensely. That certified intensity is present and accounted for on “Terrasite:” This new salvo comes across as more immediate and aggressive than “Death Atlas,” which is not to say that the latter is a bad thing – rather, the band builds on the crazy high pressure of the previous lp and takes it up a few notches. The band’s masterful compositions, especially during “Just Another Body,” showcase Travis’ cleans against a rich surrounding texture of instrumental ambiance. Outstanding. 

Track: “Scourge of the Offspring”

05) Overkill, Scorched (Nuclear Blast Records) 

The road-worn warriors from dirty Jersey… Blitz, D.D., and crew are back with their 20th studio album, and this is a most cohesive and in-your-face barrage of mayhem from the East Coast natives. The band has added some straight-up Metal into this record along with their brand of thrash. They have grown, expanded, and, most importantly, with their collective experience, have honed their musical craft so surprisingly sharp that you won’t know why your ears are bleeding, but you will enjoy it. Solid Thrash from start to finish. 

Track: “Scorched”

04) Crypta, Shades of Sorrow(Napalm Records) 

Crypta breathes the same air as musicians. This is extremely rare. Lineups like this one happen once in a lifetime. Fernanda, Tainá, Luana, and Jéssica have put together a masterpiece for the ages as their second album. The record is taut with chaotic, infuriating frenzy, pure aggression, and arrangements so well thought out that you’d think this band has been together for decades. Luana Dametto’s drum work is an outrageous display of technical artistry. The band’s symmetry and skillfulness shine through on every track. Pure Death Metal perfection. 

Track: “Trial of Traitors”

03) Asagraum, Veil of Death, Ruptured (Edge Circle Productions) 

The Daughters of the Black Flame mean business. The no-nonsense approach Asagraum brings to the satanic Black Metal table is apparent as they slash their way through one’s soul with the appetite of an immortal, murderous demon pulling us toward annihilation. Enjoy this descent into a fiery, hellish maelstrom. Asagraum’s third LP is their best yet, and it is a master class in Black Metal. 

Track: “Impure Fire”

02) Incantation, Unholy Deification (Relapse Records) 

13 is the lucky number of this full-length album from Death Metal merchants Incantation, who have consistently turned out eviscerating, dark, relentless albums ever since Onward to Golgotha. John McEntee’s signature death rumble lays down the law in front of a whirlwind of slow-burning chugging riffs that are just about to explode into a frenzy. Masters of their craft for 35 years, Incantation knows how to keep things fresh and still uphold their primordial sonic truths that have solidified as the load-bearing walls of the genre. The propulsion within the arrangements on display is reminiscent of Diabolical Conquest, and that’s a cool thing. An excellent piece of Death Metal from a most respected band. 

Track: “Exile (Defy the False)II”