These French death metalers aren't re-inventing the wheel with their sophomore effort 'The Kiss of Coatlicue'. Yet with the recording by Andrew Guillotin (Carnal Lust) and the mix from the famed Fredrick Nordstrom (In Flames, Hammerfall), who really cares? The album is technically sound with plenty of grooves, breakdowns and growling riding the constant barrage of double-bass. Cuts like 'Astral Monsters' and 'Ixtab' skirt the edges of deathcore while 'Reptile' is more in line with The Haunted, heavy handed Converse thrash. These bands and albums are a dime a dozen but Chabtan are certainly a stand out among the crowded playing field.