Norway is known for black metal, plain and simple. Black metal is the Nordic country’s primary musical export for nearly 40 years, replete with an infamous history and classic records. Thus, it is a little surprising that Maltuka, which hails from Bergen, are a thrash metal outfit. However, there is still a black metal influence on the band’s debut EP, Black Rite, both musically and lyrically. “Blood Sacrifice” is a loose thrasher, with its almost laid back d-beat but tight riffing. It is a tug of war between technicality and the primitivism of early black metal. “Condemnation” follows in the same vein with its borderline sloppy double bass drumming and wild riffing. One can hear the Venom and early Sodom influence on this track. “Xolotl” is the Aztec god of fire and lightning, thus it is refreshing to see the band touch on mythology outside of the Scandinavia. There is a punkish vibe on this track as the music contrasts between loose and tight. The opening drumming of the title track is eerily reminiscent of “Raining Blood” with its slow build-up that speeds up around the 25 second mark. The track’s midsection transitions into a rhythmic dance number with drums and bass before the guitars come in for a couple of bluesy leads.
Maltuka is trying to find itself on its debut. There are elements of thrash, punk, black and death metal, but the band does not settle for a particular sound. Thus, Black Rite lacks some cohesion and it is slightly unpredictable. When the band is lockstep, like on parts in “Blood Sacrifice”, it is apparent that the band can play some heavy thrash. However, this EP offers mere glimpses of promise. The production is clear though.
Blood Rite is a promising debut album that is worth a listen. Maltuka still have time to tune up its sound, and I think the band’s proper LP will be a banger. Once Maltuka hones its craft, it is only a matter of time until the light takes us.
Check out the band’s official Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/maltukaband/
