I have to admit that this release took me as somewhat of a surprise. The longest cried selling point is that COLDWORKER contains the former NASUM skinsman, leading me to presume - even hope for - a strong element of similarity. However, while this was obviously not the case, the direction of Anders Jokobson’s new band is surprisingly savage given the contemporary clichés that spawned it.

COLDWORKER’s debut offering should appeal strongly to fans of modernised Death Metal. Those who like HYPOCRICY, DECAPITATED, even later BEHEMOTH should find a liking for this release, despite the content being quite far from those realms. The production is a powerful illustration of the potential quality of modern technology. Heavy, balanced and retaining a grinding sharpness, the production lends itself well to the blasting drums and dynamic riffing. The style is a hybrid of classic American and Swedish Death Metal, with subtle undertones of Hardcore and Crust, all made modern with sheer savage ferocity.

I don’t like all of the influences - and my prejudices show clearly against most forms of modern metal - but for what it is, COLDWORKER’s debut album is something for metal heads to get excited about. This is honest, well written, well delivered Death Metal that borrows from the past to bring it to the future. Indeed, despite its flaws - bland vocals, a couple of filler tracks and not enough tempo dynamics - this is a quality offering that will leave those more closely following this scene than me greatly satisfied.

(Online January 3, 2007)