ENTIERRO hails from Connecticut and after releasing a pair of EPs are about to unleash their impressive debut full length release, the self titled "Entierro". This is probably one of the best examples of a band using every single instrument prominently that I've heard in quite a while. Nothing is buried in the mix whatsoever, and my God, it's refreshing. And while I certainly hope this was the band's intention, it was engineer Nick Bellmore playing the wizard behind the curtain. Self describing themselves as a Traditional Metal band, I think they're selling themselves short. I'd add elements of Doom, Thrash and a heavy helping of NWOBHM.  Whatever you want to call it, it's unique, fresh and fun.

The album opens with raging drums and bass lines in "Cyclonic Winds". Vocalist and bassist Christopher Taylor Beaudette, formerly of JASTA and KINGDOM OF SORROW delivers predominantly clean vocals with some growl when needed, and "Cyclonic Winds" immediately showcases his vocals as well as some impressive lyrical content that fit together the vocal presentation really well. "The raindrops cut like knives". This line alone reverberated with me long after hearing it. It's ominous, dark and simply great imagery. Good stuff!

"Dybbuk" is next and features some really nice melodic guitar throughout, all while Beaudette's bass runs weave in, out and in between. ENTIERRO features former FATE'S WARNING guitarist Victor Arduini. While Arduini has insisted his role is that of a player rather than composer within ENTIERRO, I have no doubt his influence is apparent here. "Turn Out the Lights" starts off as a slow burner, again showcasing every single musician and each instrument, including the vocals. "Cauldron of War" sits smack dab in the middle of the album, and might be the best lyrical track overall. Great imagery, that harkens the masters of NWOBHM, and supported by a dual guitar attack from Arduini and Christopher Begnal.

For me, the album completely peaks with "Valley of Deceit". From the opening bass notes onward, this track is the absolute highlight for me. This would be the track I would recommend everyone check out, as I find it really does the best job of telling you what ENTIERRO is all about. "Santa Muerte" and "Live to Tell" follow and just continue to solidify and reinforce how impressive this release and this ensemble is. "Controlled Burn" closes this one out, but not before again showcasing some NWOBHW influences. With a dual "MAIDENESQUE" guitar attack, the band gallops into this one, all while Beaudette's bass and drummer Dave Parmelee maintain the march at a breakneck pace.

This one surprised me. I liked it from the very first run through, and that hasn't changed with subsequent listens. In fact, I've like it more and more with each listen as I find new nuances and subtleties. This is a musicians album made for musicians to appreciate. That's the best way I can describe it. From the songwriting to the production, to the actual playing, this is an album that demands your attention. It then rewards you with something familiar, yet unique.