Reviewed by Graeme Crawford

Many extreme metal bands are so focussed and single minded in their aural assault that their songs blend into each other. Californian metallers Sleeping Giant go to the other extreme and make a conscious effort to put plenty of variety into their songs. On first listen, it made the project sound almost like a metal compilation album, but further spins reveal a musical canvas of dark, down tuned and pounding riffs for the varied vocals to be splattered over. Vocalist Thom Green has an impressive baritone when singing and a ground-shaking roar when he cuts loose. Guests vocalists provide different styles and include Facedown Records label mates xDEATHSTARx and Impending Doom. This is metal all the way, with the almost jaunty riff of "Covenant" standing out, along with "Whoremonger". "Blame It On The Holy Rollers" is let down by the demonic bellowing of Brook Doom from Impending Doom, although this may suit more hardcore death metal fans. Lyrically the band are embedded in Biblical truth and even write a worship song in "Oh Praise Him" showing a slightly softer side. Overall though, this is one only for extreme metal fans.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.