Virginia-based KING GIANT return with their third and newest studio release, "Black Ocean Waves." The band have been delivering heavy jams with a fresh serving of reality since 2005.

It's easy to overstate the listenability of music relative to one's own tastes, but "Black Ocean Waves" establishes itself as a bona-fide contender by not getting too fancy and delivering performance after strong performance with each song. The music itself is great, with hard-burning guitars smoldering along to David Hammerly's laments and howls, sitting somewhere in the sonic mix alongside acts like SIXTY WATT SHAMAN as well as KYUSS. Hammerly evokes a bit of Glenn Danzig in his vocals, which gives an appropriately gritty feel to things as he spins tale after tragic tale.

The thing that really separates the band is the authenticity in their lyrics, the pain you can hear in odes to the downtrodden like "Requiem For A Drunkard" and "The One That God Forgot To Save." It makes for a very primal experience, with vivid descriptions of life on the edge reinforced by the band's hard-edged, twin guitar attack, informed as much from Rock and Blues as they are early British Heavy Metal. It doesn't threaten with too much mainstream appeal in this way, but the songs themselves are just so well written and catchy that it wouldn't be all that surprising to hear something like "The One That God Forgot To Save" on the radio.

That delicate balance between accessibility and heaviness makes for a host of memorable moments. "Blood Of The Lamb" writhes in limbo, exuding anguish in its search for redemption, while "Red Skies" drowns in the regret of sin, questioning their sanity. It's a long journey through the valleys of despair and uncertainty that culminates with closer "There Were Bells," a touching tribute to friends that have passed away. With its wistful tone and beautiful melodies, it's a noticeable departure from the previous songs, especially the bruising "The Gentleman Carney," but it's played with just as much conviction, if not more, and it ends the album on a realistic, but hopeful note. It also shows how multi-dimensional the band can be, while still maintaining a high level of heaviness.

"Black Ocean Waves" is as diverse and thoughtful an album as you'll find, while staying listenable and accessible enough for the average listener. Fans of Doom and Stoner Metal will no doubt be delighted, but fans of any heavy music in general would do well to give this album a listen. KING GIANT may not be a household name (yet...), but they're bound to turn some heads with this tremendous effort. Highly recommended.