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It's always neat to watch a band develop. That's what makes reviewing a demo by clearly talented musicians so exciting. Sometimes the album shows a great deal of promise, but in itself isn't that great (Death, Immortal). On the other hand, some debut recordings are stunning from beginning to end (Crimson Glory, Primordial). Boston natives Untombed (that's right, Untombed, not Entombed) have found themselves somewhere in the middle on their demo Extermination. They can convey sheer intensity and feral brutality quite skillfully, emblematic of the band's talent and experience. At the same time, though, the songs feel strained and lacking, as if the band hasn't fully clicked yet. In other words, this is good, but Untombed can (and probably will) do better with time.

Untombed play a style of stripped down, brutal death metal. Boston metal stalwart Juan Macias' distinctive animalistic bark dominates the vocals, while experienced guitar player Diego Paredes contributes some beastly riffs to this demo. Songs like the title track are skillfully written and multilayered, both intelligent and fierce. Paredes' riffs are straightforward, angry, and sometimes catchy. In whatever case, they slam the listener, forcing them to bang their head. After a while though, that's all these riffs do; but Untombed is a young band, as I've made clear, one full of experienced musicians. I've seen these guys in many previous bands put on great shows and make great music. It's only a matter of time before the same thing happens with Untombed and they reach their creative zenith.