Get ready for a musical journey that will take you from the depths of blackened thrash to the heights of melodic brilliance! Graveripper, the Indiana-based band, has returned with a bang, and their new album, 'From Welkin to Tundra,' is a testament to their evolution and potential.
Since their inception in 2019, Graveripper has been making waves in the metal scene of Indianapolis. Their debut album, 'Seasons Dreaming Death,' received praise and left a lasting impression on our friend Holdeneye, who described it as putting a 'big, dumb smile' on his face. But here's where it gets interesting - after the debut, guitarist and vocalist Corey Parks decided to shake things up by bringing in new bandmates, bassist Steve Garcia and drummer Nick James, creating a fresh dynamic within the group.
'From Welkin to Tundra' showcases Graveripper's bold move to reinvent themselves. The album cover, designed by Adam Burke, sets the tone with its bleak and wicked artwork, hinting at a deeper exploration of black metal influences. And indeed, Graveripper has delved further into the dark side, blending straightforward thrash with black metal elements. Parks' furious riffs, combined with his vicious vocals, create an intense and captivating sound.
The new lineup brings a unique energy to the table. Garcia's bass rumbles and runs, providing a solid foundation, while James' drumming keeps the pace relentless. The album's intro, 'Welkin, Now Tundra,' is a perfect showcase of their instrumental prowess. Comparisons to Midwest mates Midnight and Wraith are still valid, but Graveripper has also incorporated influences from Aura Noir, Darkthrone, and Dissection, creating a unique blend of blackened thrash.
But here's the controversial part: while the album lacks complexity, it makes up for it with impeccable execution. The motto 'simple is as simple does' rings true for tracks like 'Bring Upon Pain' and 'Hexenhammer,' which showcase old-school Kreator vibes and blackened tremolos. However, it's the Megadeth-inspired melodicism of 'Bullet Laden Crown' and the blistering riffs of 'Burning Barren Plains' that truly shine. These tracks not only end the album on a high note but also showcase Graveripper's ability to create memorable and anthemic moments.
The production values have also seen a significant improvement. Niko Albanese and Joe Causey's mixing and mastering skills have enhanced the album's flow and consistency, addressing some of the issues present in their debut.
Despite these strengths, there are a few aspects that could be improved. The pacing of the album, particularly in the middle section, could use some variation to avoid a lull in energy. Additionally, while Parks' solo skills are impressive, the lack of shredding throughout the album leaves room for further exploration and experimentation.
Graveripper's 'From Welkin to Tundra' is a solid step forward, and it's exciting to see what this new lineup can achieve. With a bit more emphasis on high-energy shredding, they could reach even greater heights. So, give this album a spin, and don't let the numerical score deter you - it's a must-listen for metal enthusiasts!
Score: 3.0/5.0
DR: 6
Format Reviewed: 320kbps mp3
Label: Wise Blood Records
Websites: Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram
Release Date: October 17th, 2025
And this is the part most people miss... Graveripper is not just a band; they represent the thriving Hoosier metal scene, proving that Indiana has more to offer than just corn and The 500!
What do you think? Do you agree with the review? Do you think Graveripper has the potential to become a household name in the metal world? Let's discuss in the comments!
