Entierro are a trad metal band hailing from Connecticut, their latest release (the first since their 2018 debut album) is the El Camazotz EP, a taster of the next stage of their evolution that sees them doubling down on NWOBHM influences. Replete with stompy riffs alongside Maiden and Priest-esque guitar heroics, sonically the EP sits comfortably alongside stalwarts of the emergent US trad metal scene like Khemmis and Spirit Adrift.
The release consists of four original tracks and a Judas Priest cover. Each of the songs follow the satisfying if very well-trodden formula of the mid-paced metal stomper, delivering chunky riffs, rumbling low end, anthemic choruses and rousing, melodious solos. It’s red meat for any fan of classic metal, but it’s sometimes hard to shake the notion that it’s all been done before.
With Victor Arduini, formerly of Fates’ Warning, taking up guitar duties it comes as no surprise that this area of business is very well put together. The riffs and solos evoke the sound and spirit of the pioneers of heavy metal with a fine balance of power and melody whilst also bringing in some clear influences from the worlds of doom and stoner metal.
Lead vocalist and bassist Christopher Burdette may lack the operatic tones and sheer vocal acrobatics of the likes of Halford and Dickinson but he nonetheless delivers a commanding performance, with his rawer and more earthy delivery complementing the aforementioned stoner and desert undertones.
The musicianship and songwriting nous on display mean that this EP will almost certainly be a worthwhile listen for any fan of 80s metal, but Entierro will have to throw something more in to the mix when it comes to album two lest they risk becoming overly formulaic. Variations in song structure and the imposition of more of their own identity will be desirable going forward, but for the time being El Camazotz presents a satisfying taste of a band that hopefully have more to offer.