Ezkaton

You pretty much know what lies in store for you whenever you listen to a new release from extreme metallists Behemoth: growled vocals, galloping guitar riffs, etc. And on their 2008 EP, Ezkaton, the group doesn't stray far from the expected path. But that's not to say that the lads aren't experts at what they do. In fact, as far as extreme metal goes, Behemoth create a most impressive massive sonic wall (quite possibly more so than any other band of the genre), and this is proven once more right off the bat, with the album opener "Chant for Ezkaton," as well as such other tracks as "Jama Pekel." And tacked on the end are a few live tracks, including an impressive, rapid-fire rendition of "From the Pagan Vastlands." Supposedly, Ezkaton was released as a taster of sorts, to hold over fans until Behemoth unleashes their tenth full length album -- and first for Metal Blade Records -- in 2009. However, don't be fooled into thinking this is a stop-gap throwaway release. Ezkaton is one fierce beast. ~ Greg Prato|

You pretty much know what lies in store for you whenever you listen to a new release from extreme metallists Behemoth: growled vocals, galloping guitar riffs, etc. And on their 2008 EP, Ezkaton, the group doesn't stray far from the expected path. But that's not to say that the lads aren't experts at what they do. In fact, as far as extreme metal goes, Behemoth create a most impressive massive sonic wall (quite possibly more so than any other band of the genre), and this is proven once more right off the bat, with the album opener "Chant for Ezkaton," as well as such other tracks as "Jama Pekel." And tacked on the end are a few live tracks, including an impressive, rapid-fire rendition of "From the Pagan Vastlands." Supposedly, Ezkaton was released as a taster of sorts, to hold over fans until Behemoth unleashes their tenth full length album -- and first for Metal Blade Records -- in 2009. However, don't be fooled into thinking this is a stop-gap throwaway release. Ezkaton is one fierce beast. ~ Greg Prato