Skeletonwitch/Havok/Mutilation Rites/Solipsist/Derketa/The Approach and the Execution

Their record label calls them “American metal demons.” and that’s an apt description of Skeletonwitch. Case in point: The Athens, Ohio-based band has christened its current tour “U.S. Abomination.” Yes, this music is brutally heavy. The group is on the road to promote a new 7-inch, a re-recording on “Onward to Battle,” a song the group says is a teaser for its next full-length. Much like Slayer, these guys are speed metal aficionados who play heavy, heavy tunes at a blistering speed. Despite the Poltergeist-like vocals in “The Horrifying Force (The Desire to Kill)” and “Upon Wings of Black,” the songs have real raw power that should translate to the stage. (Jeff Niesel)