The Canada-based Death Metal band GORGUTS formed in 1989, and are still going strong today. Good on them. The metal continues with the release of their latest album, "Colored Sands". These long-haired fellows take their music seriously, as this CD is a phenomenal effort. "Colored Sands" features 9 tracks, the shortest being 4:43 long. There's definitely a positive correlation between quality and length.

The opening track "Le Toit Du Monde" is French for "top of the world". A fitting title, as the guitars, vocals, drums and bass are all certainly up there. The band showcases their technical skills with a Mathcoresque rhythm, and some melodic elements. As the listener progresses into "An Ocean of Wisdom", they are exposed to a world of chaotic brilliance. Most people wouldn't describe the sound of metal guitar as lovely, but in this case, it is. The song ends with an eerie sound I can't really identify; you'll have to give it a listen for yourself. "Forgotten Arrows" is as strong as the previous tracks, managing to be both melodic and technical. The album's title track "Colored Sands" takes a rather different approach, starting gradually with long notes. The guitars overlap, producing a riveting melody that almost makes you picture what the name suggests. There's a screaming solo part way through, and the track ends as peacefully as it began.

The second half of the album takes another approach all together, with "The Battle of Chamdo" consisting entirely of a moving strings symphony. If you heard this track on its own, you'd never guess it was by a Death Metal band. Definitely reflects their versatility. The following track instantly brings back the heavy, with "Enemies of Compassion" introduced by Luc Lemay's enraged vocals and soon featuring Colin Marston's funky bass. "Ember's Voice" has an undeniably catchy rhythm, and "Absconders" consists of carefully constructed alternating riffs. Finally, we have "Reduced to Silence" which again begins gradually before erupting into heavy. The guitar work of Luc Lemay and Kevin Hufnagel is as impressive as ever, and John Longstreth's drumming claims its final moments of ruthless glory before the album is indeed reduced to silence.

Clearly a superb amount of consideration and effort has been put into this album, and it's really paid off. Just one listen to this will instantly answer any questions regarding how GORGUTS have been going strong for so long.