It's a strange experience being exposed to a band that have been circulating for nigh on 22 years that you were not aware of. Especially when they have only been across the channel. But this is the case with the Belgian 5-Piece band CHALICE. With a rich history that began in March 1998 the forever unsigned Death Thrash outfit have produced 6 full albums and are back to offer a new EP "Lost Connections". The two track EP runs at approximately 10 minutes long, but it is not devoid of passion, energy and unadulterated ruthlessness. The artwork is simple, a wilted leaf falling under the bands title. Simple, bold and memorable.

We open the EP with a no mess opening and continued projected sense of dread and despair, "Why" delivers the highest calibre of music. CHALICE is providing an impeccable example to younger and upcoming bands on how to build their tracks. Fast paced brutal sections, annotated by slower and more pounding breakdowns. But for me the most impressive parts of this song were the clean vocal breakdowns. In fact, they were reminding me of some CHILDREN OF BODOM tracks with a very Alexi Laihoesque vocal style.

Now, I thought that CHALICE had shown their cards too soon. Seriously I was concerned that it would be hard to build on the massive success of "Why". But with a gentle and mesmerizing guitar run as we are introduced to "Dwelling". Supported by Niels and some ghostly playing behind his kit. This really hits the feel of the opening of a ritual. Before we are assaulted by a wall of intensity stemming from the powerful vocal presence of Pieter. I find myself losing my head into the music, I'm no longer sat in my living room, but I am elsewhere and being transported on a wave of purest ecstasy in the form of this music. The pain, anger and feeling of utter despair resonates with me and helps me to relate to the music that I can now not get out of my head! Structurally they have hit the perfect balance between electrical upbeat and pounding breakdowns. This is a fantastic track.

Overall, I would have to say that this is fantastic. Anyone who hasn't heard of CHALICE, or indeed those who have but haven't thought to give them a listen, I implore you to just take ten minutes and listen to the "Lost Connections" EP. I promise you that you won't be disappointed, and in these weird, upside down times, what have you got to lose? On a final note I would really like to thank the Metal Temple editorial team for assigning me this EP to review. You have given CHALICE another fan, and also thank you to the band for the music you produce. Keep it going.