Avulsed

Now here's a band that know how to be brutal, where the only thing more disgusting than their album artwork is their eardrum-ravaging music. Hailing from Madrid, Spain, Avulsed play death metal of the goriest form and their latest release, Nullo (The Pleasure of Self-mutilation), is no exception. With their fifth full-length release since their 1991 inception, these Spanish extreme metallers offer up tons of gut-wrenching riffs, pummelling blast beats and guttural disgorge; it's pretty straightforward stuff, but horrifically fantastic nonetheless. Matching their tight musicianship are their well-written songs, including "Killing After Death" and "Fair Flesh Obsession." And even though the band's brutal shtick can be a little disturbing for some, the fact remains that Avulsed are still one incredibly talented band instrumentally, which is particularly highlighted on Nullo's final track, um, "She's Hot Tonight (In My Oven)." At least the guitar work is brilliant.