This week brings another great quick one-two punch in the world of metal.

Obituary
Left to Die

Coming off the heels of their last effort, Xecutioner's Return, the death metal veterans from Tampa Bay, Florida return with an inexpensive EP that they hope will tide fans over until they deliver the next mound of death (metal music, that is).

Left to Die features two new tracks, a cover of Cetlic Frost's “Dethroned Emperor” and a re-recording of their classic “Slowly We Rot” (from the 1989 release of the same name).

What more can I say about this release than if you love Obituary, just like AC/DC, they don't stray away from the formula that has worked for them over their career with this release. The production is very similar to the sleek sound that was found on their last disc. Their patented distorted sludge-like riffing cut through the mix and the bass drum is nice and tight.

This EP is only available at their concerts and through their website at www.obituary.cc. The disc will cost you $6 US and it's $6 US for the shipping (unless you think you can get it for cheaper from eBay). This is a solid EP from a solid band and worth the dough.

Beneath the Massacre
Dystopia

The band that gives Despised Icon and Cryptopsy a run for the band that can produce the most “can they really play that?” moments have returned with a new ten track brutal technical death metal opus entitled Dystopia.

The first thing that fans of the band will notice is that some song tempos are actually slowed down a little (but are still insanely fast to most listeners) and the band have even incorporated more diversity into their songs. The second track on the disc, “Reign of Terror,” will be the first sign of things to come. The band uses break downs and grooves to break up the non-stop attacks.

I love it that a band that is pushing the limits of extreme metal comes from Quebec (just like Despised Icon and Cryptopsy). If you want something that will blow your mind, pick this one up. For about $13, you'll be quite happy.

Sample the band and their music at www.beneaththemassacre.com or www.myspace.com/btm.