What can you say about CANNIBAL CORPSE that hasn't already been said? They are pioneers of Death Metal, they are consistent regardless of change, they are an unstoppable force, they are legend. This much is a given; whether you like them or not, they have been a constant figurehead in the ever changing and evolving world of Death Metal. And to remain relevant, to maintain appeal and dependability for nearly two decades, is a rare and noteworthy accomplishment. At this point, the only uncertainty is wondering when the next album is going to hit and continue the aural beatdown they have so skillfully administered to fans for 20 years.

And so with the three year wait over and the band's 11th album raising its maggot-riddled head in the form of "Evisceration Plague", CANNIBAL CORPSE fans are once again treated to a Death Metal delicacy of depravity, dismemberment and domination. Heralded by bass master Alex Webster as "…the best guitar sound we've ever recorded…", also claiming that "…the entire band has never played with more precision and power", "Evisceration Plague" couldn't come with more expectation and anticipation. And - as always - CANNIBAL CORPSE has pulled through yet again. Arguably their most brutal release to date, and without a doubt the clearest production values in the band's long history (courtesy of the great Erik Rutan), "Evisceration Plague" once again enforces the long standing fact that CANNIBAL CORPSE is still one of the best Death Metal bands on the planet.

As Alex claims, this is indeed the best guitar sound the band has ever recorded, and one could easily take it further in saying there is more emphasis on the hook and distinction of the guitar riffs on each tune, creating some of the most effective mixtures of catchiness and brutality we've ever witnessed from the band. Crushers like the title track, "Carnivorous Swarm" and the instant classic "A Cauldron Of Hate" go straight for the throat, merciless in their efficiency and effectiveness. Rob Barrett's renewed presence in the band is exceptionally beneficial, Corpsegrinder's vocal vehemence has only grown stronger, and drummer Paul Mazurkiewicz delivers what is potentially his best performance to date. Sewn together with the crazed proficiency of Dr. Frankenstein by producer Erik Rutan, "Evisceration Plague" not only reinforces CANNIBAL CORPSE's legendary status but propels them to a level of brutality and effectiveness every bit as worthy as any of the band's classic catalogue. If you're looking for a guaranteed winner to kick off the New Year in truly brutal fashion, step up and be the next victim of the wicked symptoms of the "Evisceration Plague".