Bergen, Norway’s newest thrash export, Maltuka, waste no time making their presence known with their debut EP, Black Rite, released via High Roller Records. The band, formed by guitarist/vocalist Viljar Brunvoll and drummer Mats Hovden after the dissolution of their previous outfit Psykopath, delivers a furious and uncompromising slab of aggressive thrash, rooted in classic influences yet infused with their own distinct energy.
Drawing inspiration from titans such as Metallica, Slayer, and Sodom, as well as the dark atmospherics of their Norwegian black metal forebears Immortal, Maltuka embrace a raw and direct songwriting approach. Their lyrical themes delve into the spiritual and occult, adding an ominous layer to their razor-sharp riffs and relentless drumming. The EP’s artwork, based on a painting by Kim Diaz Holm (Sólstafir, Vreid), perfectly captures the shadowy intensity of the music.
The EP kicks off with the brooding “Judgement (Intro),” a forewarning of the storm to come. “Blood Sacrifice” then explodes with breakneck riffing and pummeling rhythms, setting the tone for the rest of the release. “Condemnation” showcases Maltuka’s knack for balancing speed and groove, while “Xolotl” ventures into intricate, almost blackened thrash territory with sinister melodies woven throughout. The title track, “Black Rite”, serves as a climactic closer, combining relentless aggression with a sense of foreboding grandeur.
While Black Rite serves as an introduction to Maltuka’s sound, the band makes it clear that this is just the beginning. “This EP showcases our heavier, more to-the-point style of songwriting,” Brunvoll states. “Our eventual first album will be more dynamic, featuring a broader range of influences and sounds.” If this EP is any indication, Maltuka is well on their way to carving out a significant place in the thrash metal landscape. Black Rite is a bold opening statement—one that demands attention and promises even greater things to come.
TRACKLISTING:
01 Judgement (Intro)
02 Blood Sacrifice
03 Condemnation
04 Xolotl
05 Black Rite
LINE-UP:
Viljar Brunvoll – guitar, vocals
Sondre Hovden – guitar
Mats Hovden – drums
Johannes Gade Glesner – bass
ON-LINE:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563413770301
Source: www.antiheromagazine.com
