Formed in 2008, AGGRAVATOR have two full-lengths and two EPs under their belt. The second EP, their self-titled, was released earlier this year, was recently reissued on Unspeakable Axe records on Sep. 30, 2019. Blasting through Thrash Metal rhythms with a hint of Death Metal influence, Aggravator present a new, six-track EP of grooves and riffs.

Starting with "Desensitized Devotion," the EP is seemingly abrasive. The fast rhythms, technical riffs and groovy interlude all make this record appear to be a well-rounded dose of Thrash Metal. The track delves into different passages with an interlude that provides another dimension of the band's technique. This is probably one of 2019's strongest Thrash Metal tracks. However great the opening track is, the EP quickly devolves into mediocrity.

"Redundancy" has some great songwriting moments, but it fails to deliver what one might have expected it to based off the first track. The song is borderline interesting with typical Thrash riffs going on. The next track falls under similar circumstances, but this time the song is less interesting. "Redundancy" at least had some fascinating moments, but "Carved Apart" just seems like filler.

It isn't until "Carnal Forms" and "Suspended Agonal Breathing" when the intense riffing style and groove of the first track make a reappearance. With inspired riffs, the former of the two creates a heavy, steamrolling riff-fest that is a great was to revive the EP. The record ends with the later long, and this track is a very close second to "Desensitized Devotion" when it comes to songwriting and technicality.

Overall, this EP has some great music, but it also has some dull music. It's an odd blend of the both the band's fantastic side and their mediocre, uninspired side. Equipped with decent production, the record is nothing terrible, but it is also nothing groundbreaking.