Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Ost Est Ima A Few For The Dead (EP) Company: Self Release Release: 2007 Reviewer: Grim Gaijin Genre: Death

Death metal with a classic thrash feel

Canada sure has had an extensive role in history when it comes to producing great rock/metal bands. There's my all time favorite band Rush - who continue to push the boundaries of progressive rock to this day. There's Voivod - one of the greatest metal bands of all times, who's creative and twisted guitar riffs were way ahead of its time. Other great bands to mention would be Strapping Young Lad, The End, and Kataklysm just to name a few. There's one more band who could soon be on that list with their innovative and aggressive brand of death metal, and that is Ost Est Ima. Hailing from Calgary, this quintet are raising eyebrows (and banging heads) with their debut EP titled A Few For The Dead. Although the disk only contains 3 songs, it is definitely a great introduction to the future of Canadian Metal.

The CD opener, Stillborn Omen, comes out swinging with its fast, intense guitar licks, precision drumming, and scornful vocals. Always aggressive, the track is a whirlwind of riffs, thunderous double bass drumming and the occasional blast beat. The second song, 160 dB (Lifeless Eyes), continues the madness with an opening riff that pays homage to classic Death (Leprosy-era). The production on this track reminds me of the classic Defiance album, Void Terra Firma. There are some sick vocals on this track as well - especially when John G. kicks it up a notch for the fast verses. The final track, Boiler, continues the blistering pace with more expeditious riffs and a solid rhythm section.

Ost Est Ima are a very impressive band and based on this short EP, there are nothing but great things to follow. I love this style of death metal with a classic thrash feel and the production could not be better - especially for a self release. Definitely watch out for this band in the future! I recommend this CD to anyone that is into metal.