If you put the likes of Slipknot, Snot, Machine Head, Sepultura and Hatebreed in a dark alley, punched them all in the face when they weren't looking and let the ensuing rumble get completely out of hand, you would probably be able to sum up what San Antonio, TX based act Angerkill have to offer on this, their latest pugnacious effort.

Filled with rough and ready vocals that can bring to mind Slipknot's Corey Taylor, Machine Head's Robert Flynn and Coal Chamber's Dez Fafara, the group's two vocalists blast out deep throaty barks and tormented wails in Biohazard-ish fashion at the drop of a hat, while chugging guitar riffs, full of punchy distortion and intensity, clear-cut a path with their brazen early Machine Head like nature. Bass wise, the effort is a bit more experimental, utilizing some oddly timed parts that really manage to catch the listeners ear, though the bulk of the lowend is comprised of thick de tuned hits that tend to keep the subwoofers in check. Riddled with a heaping portion of superb crisp percussion that brings to mind fellow Texans Pantera, the drumming portion of this disc pounds like a malfunctioning jackhammer, yet always retains focus on constantly building up momentum. Rounded out by some fairly subtle sampling, the music can take the occasional eerie turn, yet by no means is in any way similar to groups like Fear Factory, who often tend to try and create some sort of digital hell. Instead, its implementation is a lot more reclusive, though when noticed, becomes all the more appreciated.

All in all, "DV8" manages to serve up a near perfect blend of brutish, for the jugular metalcore, flourished with well regimented touches of hardcore, thrash and traditional metal. It's unrelenting and its heavier than a cement coated steamroller, yet its edgy and has enough personality to somehow nudge its way out of the pack. Sure there's a few similarities to other acts, but none of them are blatant enough to warrant the proverbial copycat name calling, as they are mixed in very heavily with enough of the bands own brand of fiery Texan stomp grooves. There are a few sketchy moments, but on the other hand, there is also a wealth of deadly grooves that are plowed deep enough to high center a Humvee. In short, with "DV8", those who have played out their favorite records by Hatebreed, Sepultura, Machine Head and the other usual suspects, have just found the next purchase on their list.