Listening to this independent release makes me wonder why New York's MALSTROM aren't signed yet, because this record is just simply very good. OK, it's not all that original. Right from the start it's pretty clear these guys like themselves some OPETH, and maybe some MASTODON and some old school heavy metal too, while Carlos Garcia's often screaming vocals also add something of a hardcore/metalcore edge. But what they do with those influences is pretty great!

There's seven tracks in total, and since the record's playing time is almost an hour that should tell you enough about MALSTROM's average song length. Well actually, the fourth track is an acoustic intermezzo but even that goes on for almost three minutes. Longevity is not always a good thing but MALSTROM pull it off due to tight playing, some great guitar harmonies and good songwriting. The opening track alone (8:19) has more breaks and turns than you can shake a MERCYFUL FATE at. And I haven't even mentioned album closer "The War Will Be Lost" yet, which lasts for a whopping 15 minutes! OK, the blatant OPETH and MASTODON-worshipping may get a bit much at times, but when the song material is this good who gives a f**k. Hey Metal Blade and Roadrunner, where are you? After all, you've signed LAMB OF GOD and TRIVIUM too! Well, MALSTROM are better! A LOT!!

- Van Hoften

OFFICIAL SITE: www.malstrom.net

RELATED ITEMS: MALSTROM - "Obligated by Obscurity" 2004, Guitargument - Young bands pick the brains of seasoned vets.