LUMBERHEAD is a Leipzig-based metal band that's existed since 2014. Throughout the last 7 years, they've managed to release an EP and an LP, so "Erase" has become the third release in LUMBERHEAD's discography. Released via Daredevil Records, "Erase" offers about 20 minutes of Groove/Thrash/Death Metal experience. "Erase" consists of four tracks, mixing different techniques from the aforementioned musical genres in equal proportions. No surprise that this mixture, albeit done countless times many years before LUMBERHEAD's attempt, sounds natural and seamless. Perhaps there is nothing extraordinary in such a genre combination, but it still works great, especially when there's passion behind it.

Fans of such bands as PANTERA, LAMB OF GOD, and MOTORHEAD will certainly find many elements similar to others in the genre's masters. LUMBERHEAD's sound is generally composed of elements inherent in the music of these bands, minus the clean vocals that sound more like a mix of CROWBAR, METALLICA, and RED FANG. Vocals periodically please with interesting melodic moves, but mostly emphasize the specific moments of the album rather than melodically diversify it. The adherence to certain clichés is present on the record, but a vital amount of eclecticism manages to add some freshness to what at times sounds over established.

It is worth talking a little about each song. The track "The Same" sounds like a great opener for live performances. It features solid riffs, groovy beginning, and fast thrashy guitar passages towards the mid-section. The track "Thousand Suns" reminded me of VENOM with its evil tri-tones and speeding guitars. "De-Fens" introduced some stoner vibes. The last song on the record - "The House of Terror" is arguably the best song on the album, with its atmospheric intro, Doom-ish groove mid-section, and Stoner-like ending. Overall, the songwriting on "Erase" looks constantly solid. Perhaps, better mixing could elevate this material to the next level, as the record sometimes seems to lose some magic due to quite mediocre sound choices.

You're unlikely to find something surprising or new in LUMBERHEAD's work. However, if novelty is not your thing, then "Erase" has every chance to surprise you with its successful utilization of well-known principles. Everything's done well enough to please the fans of good ol' days of Groove and Death Metal. What it lacks in freshness and experimentation, it makes up for in good songwriting and decent performance. Perhaps the band should work a little more on diversifying their sound, as well as being more scrupulous during the recording and mastering process. However, these minor flaws probably won't stop you from enjoying this release to some extent.