After humble beginnings as a cover-band performing anthems of artists such as PANTERA, SEPULTURA, and SLAYER, the Greek Metal band LIMBO-X decided to crank the notch up a bit by writing their own material. Having released a demo "The First Tie to Cut" back in 2011, 2014 sees the release of their debut album "Outburst" through Rock Of Angels Records.

Over the course of their comparatively short history, LIMBO-X have had their music given an assortment of labels, with everything from Post-Core Thrash to Groove Metal to Death Metal being consigned to their sound. I would however hesitate in ascribing any specific one of these tags to them; rather, they seem to incorporate elements from all of the above into their music. For example, Groove Metal influences are audible in tracks such as "An Illusion to Last", with the guitars taking interesting scale-based leads which add life to the song. This track is perhaps my favourite on the album, with a very catchy intro that captivates the listener. In contrast to this, other tracks such as "Rainy Days" manifest a more Thrash Metal-like emanation, reflecting the amalgamation of styles drawn on by the band.

With a sudden attention-capturing blast, the first track "Feel an Abscence Everyday" [sic] ends as abruptly as it starts, with such brevity being abided by throughout the album. This track does a good job of setting the pace for the rest of the album, and showcasing the technical skills of the band. The vocal style varies between heavier aggressive shouting and cleaner, more melodic vocals, with this track bringing to mind a weightier and rawer version of vocal styles found in bands like SEVENDUST. Whilst this brutal vocal style does suit the anger inherent in the music, it can seem a little forced, especially in tracks such as "It's Time to Hear". In addition to this, the vocals occasionally introduce harmonics which jar against the melody being followed by the rest of the band, which detracts from the music somewhat. In terms of the repeated riffs so heavily relied upon, while they do give the tracks an aggressive atmosphere, they can occasionally lend the songs a monotonous air. This is however broken up in songs such as "It's Time to Hear" and "Only for a While", which incorporates slower and more melancholic sounds between the fiercer sounding riffage and drumming.

Overall, "Outburst" is almost 40 minutes of sheer relentless aggression and ferocity. This break-neck tempo is unremittingly adhered to throughout the album, and whilst this may be exactly what the doctor ordered after a frustrating day when you just want to let loose, it can get rather tedious for your average listening. Although LIMBO-X still has the very raw sound found amongst newer bands, they have some potential, having managed to release a fairly solid debut. "Outburst" is unrefined, brutal, honest, and heavy; if you're tired of the plethora of overproduced Metal currently available, then give it a shot.